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About the Community Development Department
The Department of Community Development, a comprehensive department created in 2026, focuses on development, building and inspection, code enforcement, and planning functions. The goal of bringing all of these functions together under one department is to make it easier for residents and businesses to access services to move their projects forward.
Administration Division
The Administration Division provides overall program preparation, direction, and oversight; maintains department personnel, budget and land use records; provides administrative support to pertinent boards, committees, and commissions; and provides support and guidance for the entire department.
Building Division
The Building Division ensures that building and electrical work done within the city complies with codes, laws, and regulations mandated by the State. Building and site plans are reviewed for compliance with codes, and inspections are scheduled for predetermined construction stages. Inspectors advise and confer with contractors and/or property owners before and during construction to help ensure compliance.
Code Enforcement enforces all applicable laws, rules, and regulations in order to provide a healthy, clean, and pleasant environment for the citizens of Paducah.
This division is responsible for the
- Issuance of permits.
- Building and construction inspections.
- Electrical inspections.
- Code enforcement (housing, zoning, building, electrical, etc.).
- Maintenance of city records for construction and property improvement within the city or its jurisdiction.
Planning Division
The Planning Division guides the growth, development, and long-term vision of the community in a way that improves quality of life for residents while balancing economic, environmental, and social needs. A primary responsibility of the Division is the review of site plans and plats to ensure compliance with zoning and planning ordinances, the Comprehensive Plan, and alignment with adopted policies. The Division also supports key land use decision-making bodies, including the Paducah Planning Commission, Paducah Board of Adjustment, and the Paducah Historical and Architectural Review Commission, providing professional analysis and administrative coordination.
While the Planning Division’s work spans a wide range of topics and initiatives, all efforts share a common foundation: thoughtful and strategic land use planning. At its core, the mission includes
- Shaping a Clear Community Vision - The Planning Division, guided by the direction of elected officials, works with residents and stakeholders to define what the city should look like in the future—through comprehensive plans, neighborhood plans, and strategic initiatives.
- Managing Growth and Development - Planning staff review development proposals, enforce zoning regulations, and ensure new projects align with adopted plans, infrastructure capacity, and community goals.
- Promoting Smart Land Use - This Division guides how land is used—residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use—to create efficient, attractive, and functional spaces that support economic vitality and livability.
- Supporting Economic Development - By coordinating land use, infrastructure, and incentives, the Planning Division helps attract investment, support local businesses, and revitalize key areas.
- Preserving Community Character - This includes protecting historic resources, maintaining neighborhood identity, and ensuring new development fits the context of the community.
- Advancing Sustainability and Resilience - Planning addresses environmental concerns such as stormwater, green space, transportation, and climate resilience to ensure long-term sustainability.
- Ensuring Public Engagement and Equity - A key part of the mission is giving residents a voice in decisions and working to ensure fair, inclusive outcomes for all parts of the community.
