What's New
The Chester County Planning Commission collects and shares publications, reports, maps, videos and other newsworthy information that supports the six goals and vision of Landscapes3, the county's comprehensive plan. The stories below are organized by the plan's six goal areas — Preserve, Protect, Appreciate, Live, Prosper, Connect — and the Vision.
Planning Commission Updates
2021 Metrics — Another great year for Chester County
Chester County saw another great year with the release of the 2021 Metrics. View the metrics for each individual Landscapes3 goal.
2021 Success Stories
Our 2021 Success Stories include a mix of county, municipal, non-profit, and other partner organizations all working towards the success and future of Chester County. Check them out to learn more.
How We Preserve
Protected Open Space Tracking (POST)
Each year the county tracks and reports the total amount of protected open space totals. The 2022 totals will be released in early April. Check back for more info! Learn more about POST.
eTools — Protecting Chesco's Farmlands, Natural Areas, & Cultural Resources
Chester County established some of the first land trusts to preserve land throughout the county back in the 1940s, and today, the county has nearly 30% of open space protected because of it. Learn about the benefits of conservation easements and how to implement them.
How We Protect
eTools — BMPs and Floodplan Protection
Stormwater Best Management Practices and floodplain protection are important to manage flooding and maintain a healthy ecosystem. Learn more.
eTools — Enhancing Chester County's Green Spaces
Municipalities can expand the county's green spaces by implementing urban green spaces and through parkland dedication and fee-in-lieu provisions in their subdivision and land development ordinances. Learn more.
How We Appreciate
America250PA Commission
In honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, the county is forming the Chester County America250PA Commission to highlight the important role that Chester County played from before our nation was formed, through to today, and into the future. Learn more.
How We Live
2021 Housing Report
The 2021 Housing Report shows a 20-year high in Chester County home construction. Learn more.
New Guide Supports Planning for an Aging Community
Chester County's population of those aged 65 and older is anticipated to almost double between 2015 and 2045. Check out our new Aging-Friendly Planning Guide to learn how to prepare for this shift. Learn more.
New Guide Supports Planning for Affordably-Priced Homes
Many families have become burdened by the cost of housing as living costs continue to rise across the U.S. Because of this, CCPC released a guide featuring strategies to reduce overall construction costs and help create more affordably priced homes. Learn more.
How We Prosper
Non-residential Construction Report
Chester County saw a total of 36 non-residential construction projects completed in 2021 totaling 1,139,151 square feet. Learn more.
Ag Council Releases New Strategic Plan
The Chester County Agricultural Economic Development Strategic Plan (AEDSP) outlines how to sustain and grow a successful agricultural economy in the face of growth pressures, industry challenges, and limited resources. Learn more.
Chester County Economy Report Released
Chester County released an Economy Report which can help guide economic planning and future growth. The report highlights the county's strengths and weaknesses, helping to guide the implementation of Landscapes3. Learn more.
How We Connect
Chester County's Solar Power Guide
With the demand for solar power rising, CCPC released a Solar Power Guide with information and guidance on regulating solar power facilities. Learn more.
Transportation Improvement Program
The TIP is the list of priority improvement projects for the southeastern region of PA, adopted by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and updated every two years. It includes roadway, bridge, public transit, bicycle, pedestrian, & freight related projects. Learn more.
Transportation Priority Projects
The TPP begins with the biennial TIP update process and results in the production of the TPP brochure. The TPP addresses the transportation goals of Landscapes3 and helps to provide an efficient and reliable multimodal transportation system in Chester County. Learn more.
Interactive Trail Map
CCPC released an interactive map showcasing the county's public trails and nature preserves. Users can submit feedback, photos, comments, errors, and other information during the map's beta stage. Learn more.
Landscapes3 Vision and Map
eTools — Selecting a Planning Consultant
It's important to select a Planning Consultant that best suits the needs of your project and community. Learn more.
New Suburban Landscapes Design Guide Released
This new design guide supports the planning principles and design elements for development in the county's suburban landscapes. Topics include recommended planning policies, design treatments, regulatory strategies, & links to online resources. Learn more.
eTools — Encouraging Sketch Plans
Sketch plans not only give a municipality the ability to guide design characteristics and layout features, but also help avert potential development proposal issues during the project's official review. Learn more.