The purpose of this manual is to provide a guide for municipal planning commissions in fulfilling their role and responsibilities as set forth in 24 V.S.A. Chapter 117, the Municipal and Regional Planning and Development Act. A major role of the municipal planning commission is to develop the municipal plan. The Planning Manual provides information that will help the planning commission with this complex task, from designing the planning program to adopting the plan.
Vermont's distinctive sense of place is tied to its primary land use planning goal: to plan development so as to maintain the historic settlement pattern of compact village and urban centers separated by rural countryside. Through collaboration with our partners the Department works to further these land use goals by developing programs that provide communities with needed tools and resources. Below are some of the programs and guidance that can help communities integrate land use planning with energy, housing, economic development and transportation options.
(updated 7/7/2020)
Contact information for Vermont federal and State Housing Agencies, Public Housing Authorities, Community Land Trusts and Housing Development Corporations, Regional Planning Commissions, Regional Development Corporations, Community Action Agencies, Agencies on Aging, Related Housing Organizations, NeighborWorks® Homeownership Centers, and Vermont's Congressional Delegation.
Vermont has a unique network of organizations that works to marshal resources to build and maintain housing across the state. These include State Agencies, non-profit organizations, for-profit developers and quasi-governmental organizations. The Department of Housing and Community Development works with all of them in some capacity to ensure resources are used efficiently and housing needs are being addressed. Below you can find more information about partner organizations.
Vermont has a wide range of programs, protections and resources to ensure the state's housing is safe, decent, and affordable to all.
Information about financing homes and mobile homes, down payment assistance, getting help with a mortgage, making home repairs, and help to stay in your home. COVID Housing Assistance Programs.
Effective July 1, 2016.
Rules Cover (pdf)
Three major planning activities are conducted by the State in connection with its receipt of federal funding for housing and community development activities. These plans are developed with public input and further the State’s goals to provide decent, affordable housing, and build strong communities.
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