American Planning Association

Definition

The American Planning Association (APA) is a professional organization in the United States that serves urban planners and related professionals by providing resources, education, and advocacy for effective land use and community planning. The APA plays a significant role in establishing best practices, promoting sustainable development, and influencing zoning regulations across various jurisdictions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Founded in 1978, the American Planning Association aims to advance the art and science of planning to improve communities and the quality of life.
2. The APA offers resources like publications, conferences, and educational programs that help planners stay informed on best practices and emerging trends.
3. Through its advocacy efforts, the APA influences public policy and legislation related to zoning, land use, and urban planning at local, state, and federal levels.
4. The APA provides a professional certification program for planners known as AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners), enhancing credibility in the profession.
5. The organization emphasizes community involvement in the planning process, encouraging public participation to ensure that development meets the needs of residents.

Review Questions

• How does the American Planning Association influence zoning regulations at different levels of government?
  • The American Planning Association influences zoning regulations through its advocacy efforts and resources designed for urban planners. By promoting best practices and engaging with policymakers, the APA helps shape local, state, and federal zoning laws. Their research and guidelines provide planners with tools to create effective zoning ordinances that reflect community needs and sustainable development principles.
• Discuss the role of the American Planning Association in promoting sustainable land use practices among urban planners.
  • The American Planning Association plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable land use practices by offering educational programs, resources, and advocacy for smart growth initiatives. Through conferences and publications, the APA shares innovative strategies for environmentally responsible development that balances economic growth with community well-being. This guidance helps urban planners adopt practices that reduce sprawl, enhance public transit options, and preserve natural resources.
• Evaluate how the American Planning Association’s initiatives can shape community involvement in urban planning processes.
  • The initiatives of the American Planning Association significantly shape community involvement by emphasizing the importance of public participation in urban planning processes. By providing guidelines for effective engagement strategies, the APA encourages planners to include residents in decision-making about land use and zoning. This participatory approach not only fosters transparency but also ensures that developments reflect the values and needs of the community, ultimately leading to more successful outcomes in urban planning.

Related terms

Zoning:

The process of dividing land into zones where certain land uses are permitted or prohibited, guiding urban development and land use management.

Land Use Planning: A process that determines how land should be used and developed to meet the needs of a community, balancing environmental, economic, and social considerations.

Smart Growth: An urban planning approach that promotes environmentally friendly habits by creating walkable neighborhoods with a range of transportation options and mixed-use development.