We are currently expanding the Land Use Academy program to offer more trainings in both in-person and virtual settings, cover additional topics, and provide new video training modules for commissioners. Keep an eye out for new exciting changes.
Land Use Commissioner Training
As of January 1, 2023, planning and zoning commissioners in the State of Connecticut are required to complete at least four hours of training as required under the Section 8-4c of Connecticut General Statutes. For more information on these requirements, review the CT Office of Policy and Management (OPM) guidelines here.
UConn CLEAR, in collaboration with OPM, has set up a statewide Land Use Commissioner Training Calendar to help towns and commissioners locate training opportunities in line with these requirements. This includes events from providers throughout the state. Click under each date on the calendar for further information about training. There are also ongoing virtual trainings offered by CLEAR and CT DEEP that may meet training requirements. Explore the CT DEEP and UConn CLEAR Training tabs above for self-paced online training courses and other opportunities.
Land Use Academy Training Videos
Basic Training
The Legal Requirements and Procedures, Roles and Responsibilities training has been split into two modules. This training refers to handouts that are typically used in the in-person training (access these handouts). You should download the hypothetical case study, The Town of East Northport, CT, before starting the Legal Requirements and Procedures training modules. It is strongly recommended that any new commission or board members first complete a Basic Training course, such as that provided by the CLEAR Land Use Academy, before pursuing training in other topics of interest.
Advanced Training
We offer an all-day Advanced Training covering three topics in-depth: Bias, Predisposition and Conflicts; Implementing and Enforcing Land Use Decisions, and; Running a Meeting and Making the Decision. Over the years these topics have risen to the surface as issues that crop up continually in the life a land use commission member. The workshop is taught by prominent land use attorneys dealing with local land use issues in Connecticut communities.
About the Academy
The Land Use Academy provides practical education for local land use decision makers in Connecticut. Our program focuses on the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to serve effectively on a local land use commission. The Academy is a partnership of UConn CLEAR, the CT Bar Association, and the CT Office of Policy and Management.
By the Numbers
