Planning & Development
Community Plans
The Comprehensive Plan, Front Beach plan, Downtown plan and Bienville Boulevard master plan are available for public review. You may pickup a copy of the plans at the Planning Department or click to view the City of Ocean Springs Comprehensive Plan.
Tree Planting
Staff from the City of Ocean Springs Department of Community Development & Planning, Parks & Leisure Services and volunteers from AmeriCorp National Civilian Community Corp were busy planting 286 trees along the east corridor of Hwy. 90 in Ocean Springs. The trees are funded by the MS Forestry Commission and MDOT.
The Community Development and Planning Department deals with the development of land within the City of Ocean Springs. From the construction of a shed to development of beachfront condominiums and subdivisions, this department will be at the center of most discussions related to these improvements.
Mission Statement
To identify the unique characteristics and resources of Ocean Springs, and provide for their preservation and enhancement, with balance between quality of life and economic growth.
Organization Structure
To better assist the public the Community Development and Planning Department is divided into two sub-departments:
Planning Department
Eric Meyer, Ocean Springs Planning Director
The Planning Department is responsible for the administration of the Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations of the City. These land use regulations guide the development of land based on uses, intensity of uses, and density. A primary goal is the cohesive development among surrounding properties and efficient use of city infrastructure. The Planning Department is also responsible for the administration of the Historic Preservation Ordinance and the Ocean Springs Historic District Design Guidelines, the Tree Preservation Ordinance, and the Landscaping Ordinance of the City. With the administration of these ordinances the Planning Department serves with:
- Planning Commission
- Zoning and Adjustments Board
- Historic Preservation Commission
- Tree Preservation Commission
- Beautification Committee
Building Department
The Building Department interacts daily with citizens and contractors with the building of Ocean Springs. This task has seen a significant increase in volume as a result of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. Whether replacing shingles or rebuilding a lost home, permits and inspections are required of the Building Department. The City has adopted and works under the 2006 International Building Codes.
This department administers the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance of the City. With the revisions adoption of the Ocean Springs Flood Plain Management Map in March 2009 the Building Department works with property owners located within a flood zone during the reconstruction efforts.
Through Code Enforcement, this department deals with overgrown properties and the cleaning of private property, derelict vehicles, illegal signs, and other nuisances.
