Michelle M. Smith, Assistant Chief Development Officer
The Division of Planning & Regulatory Services (DPRS), a division of Economic Development, works in coordination with other divisions of the Executive Office of Economic Development as well as other City Departments to support and guide the future development of the city. DPRS's work related to current planning includes providing administrative support and professional services to the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Historical Commission and Conservation Commission to support their review of projects that fall under their purview.
DPRS conducts research and provides data analysis to develop programmatic and policy recommendations, and participates in the development of planning studies and plans of various types. DPRS also works with developers, homeowners, businesses and others on issues relating to land use, development, zoning, historic preservation, and transportation among other topics.
Future Development
Conservation Commission Historical Commission Planning Board Zoning Board of Appeals
Join a Board or Commission
Learn more about the member responsibilities and general information for prospective candidates for each of the four Planning and Regulatory Boards & Commissions.
Zoning Ordinance & Map
The City's Zoning Ordinance and Map are tools for land use planning. Each zone classification guides the physical development of the city through a set of requirements set forth in the City of Worcester's Zoning Ordinance as amended.
Planning Initiatives
Learn about various Initiatives and Plans headed by the Division of Planning and Regulatory Services.
Floodplain Management
The City of Worcester plays an active role in floodplain management, working to minimize flood hazards, educate residents, and ensure compliance with regulations.
Addressing in Worcester
The City of Worcester's DPRS is responsible for the assignment of addresses and unit numbers under Worcester GRO Chapter 12 § 9. A number of services are offered related to address assignment such as New Street Number/Address Request, Address Verification, and Changing an Address.
Pre-Development Consultations
Interdepartmental Review Team meetings are offered free of charge and are designed to assist developers and land owners in the pre-development stages of potential and proposed projects with questions relating to permitting processes, zoning compliance, engineering standards and land use policy considerations.
Worcester Now | Next
Worcester Now | Next was a two-year long citywide planning process that engaged the Worcester community on important issues relating to land use, housing, economic opportunity, natural and cultural resources, open space and recreation, services and facilities, and transportation and mobility, among others.
