The Planning and Zoning Department has three primary areas of responsibility: long range planning, strategic planning, and land use control. Long range planning includes the preparation and update of comprehensive plans for the future development of the city. Strategic planning involves many activities including redevelopment and annexation. Land use control includes the enforcement of the Zoning Ordinance, Tree Preservation and Landscape Ordinance, and the Subdivision Ordinance.
The staff of the Planning and Zoning Department provide support and technical assistance to residents, developers, the City Council, Planning and Zoning Commission (Plan Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals), Historic Preservation Commission, and the Waukegan Economic Development Advisory Board.