2026 Planning & Zoning Training

Kentucky law requires appointed planning officials and planning staff to complete training to understand their legal roles and responsibilities. Under KRS 100.346, appointed members and staff must complete orientation training shortly before or after appointment or hire, followed by ongoing continuing education throughout their term.

The required training covers core planning and zoning topics, public hearing procedures, ethics, and due process, and includes a required component on how planning and zoning decisions affect housing supply and accessibility. These requirements are designed to ensure appointed officials are prepared to make informed, fair, and legally sound land-use decisions and that staff can administer and enforce land-use regulations consistently and in compliance with the law.

KLC is pleased to meet these requirements by offering both in-person and virtual training opportunities. In 2026, we will offer a total of six high-quality trainings, including four regional, in-person sessions hosted throughout the state, as well as two virtual webinars for those unable to attend in person.

To ensure the highest level of instruction, KLC has partnered with the American Planning Association – Kentucky Chapter to deliver engaging, relevant, and timely content. We are especially grateful to Louisville Metro Office of Planning Director Brian Davis, AICP, and Owensboro Metropolitan Planning Commission Executive Director Brian Howard, AICP, who have generously agreed to serve as presenters for all six training sessions offered this year. Their extensive experience and leadership in planning and zoning will provide attendees with valuable insights and real-world perspectives.

Training topics will cover a wide range of foundational issues, including:

• Emerging Trends: A Deep Dive into Data Centers
• 2026 Legislative Review
• Housing, Housing, and More Housing
• The ABCs and 123s of Planning and Zoning
• Comprehensive Plan Jeopardy
• Planning in Rural Areas: Smaller Scale but not Smaller Issues

If you are interested in attending one of our 2026 training sessions, please see the information below for dates, locations, and registration details.