Planning and Zoning

The Planning & Zoning Division manages the orderly growth and development of the City of Raymore by administering land use regulations, guiding long-range planning efforts, and supporting community development goals.

Division Responsibilities:

• Implementing and updating the City’s Comprehensive Plan and other long-range planning documents to guide future development.
• Reviewing rezoning requests, preliminary and final plats, and site plans to ensure compliance with the Unified Development Code.
• Providing professional support to the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council on development and zoning matters.
• Administering and interpreting zoning and subdivision regulations to promote consistent and high-quality growth.
• Coordinating public engagement efforts to ensure transparent and inclusive planning processes for residents and stakeholders.

The Planning & Zoning Division works closely with developers, residents, and other City departments to promote sustainable growth and maintain Raymore’s quality of life.

Quick actions for residents, developers, and design professionals related to zoning, development, and the Unified Development Code (UDC).

Start a Development Application

Most Development Services Applications require a pre-application meeting with City staff to review project submittal requirements, timelines, and discuss potential development projects. Use this opportunity to ask questions and receive guidance to help your project succeed.

 

Steps for a Complete Development Application

1. Completed Development Application Form

Submit all required information accurately to avoid delays in review.

2. Development Guide Book

Refer to the applicable guide below for submittal requirements, criteria and standards.

3. Schedule of Fees

Confirm applicable fees with the Finance Department before submission.

Schedule of Fees

The Schedule of Fees for development applications is maintained by the Finance Department. It includes all applicable review fees, permits, and associated costs for your project.

View Schedule of Fees

The Unified Development Code (UDC) was initially adopted by the City Council on December 8, 2008. The UDC regulates all development activity within the City, including planning and zoning regulation, subdivision development and design, and site plan review.

The UDC authorizes the Development Services Director to render interpretations of the code. Official interpretations are issued as Declaratory Rulings.

Excerpts & Resources

Excerpts from the UDC provide quick information regarding certain topics for informational purposes only. Please refer to the adopted UDC for any official determinations.

Zoning District Summaries & Use Tables

• Agricultural and Residential Zoning Districts
• Business, Commercial and Industrial Zoning Districts
• Use Standards - Commercial Uses
• Use Standards - Public & Civic Uses
• Use Standards - Residential Uses
• Zoning Overlay and Special Purpose Districts

Platting and Subdivision Development Regulations

• Final Plat
• Land Disturbance / Erosion Control
• Lot Splits
• Minor Subdivisions
• Park Land Dedication Requirements
• Preliminary Plats
• Stream Buffer Protection
• Subdivision Design Requirements

Development Review Procedures & Resources

• Building Design Standards
• Development Review Procedures
• Parking Regulations and Design Standards
• Site Plan Review

Commonly Referenced Code Sections

• Accessory Use and Structures (pools, sheds, decks, etc.)
• Accessory Utility Facilities
• Drive-thru Facility Requirements
• Fencing Requirements
• Intersection Visibility & Sight Triangle
• Renewable Energy Systems (solar, wind, etc.)
• Shipping / Storage Containers
• Sign Code Regulations
• Temporary Uses

Adopted Plan and Appendices

The Raymore Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council adopted Raymore Blueprint 2045 for the City of Raymore on May 12, 2025. This plan replaces the former Growth Management Plan as the city's Comprehensive Plan and provides guidance for staff and appointed and elected bodies regarding the growth and development of Raymore.

Embedded Viewers

Interactive Documents

Community for All Ages Master Plan

The city's Community for All Ages Master Plan was approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission on March 21, 2017. The plan includes goals and strategies to help build a community that is friendly and safe for all.

In spring 2017, the City of Raymore achieved Gold Level recognition as a Community for All Ages, recognizing steps taken to become more age-friendly through planning and community development efforts.

Adopted Master Plan

What makes our city age-friendly?

This program recognizes communities like Raymore that take steps to become more welcoming to residents of all ages. The Community for All Ages program ensures city decisions consider the impacts on all residents. Initiatives include:

• Promoting concepts of universal design in residential construction
• Expanding housing options by permitting accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
• Establishing wider, well-maintained sidewalks and trails
• Building inclusive recreation opportunities

Additional Resources

Universal Design Home Example

This Universal Design (UD) home demonstrates accessible features that allow residents to age gracefully at home. Features include wide doors, zero-entry front door and shower, lever handles, lowered appliances, and easy installation options for grab bars.

Planning & Zoning Commission Meetings

Regular meetings of the Raymore Planning and Zoning Commission begin at 6:00 PM and are held in the City Council Chambers, Raymore City Hall, 100 Municipal Circle, Raymore, Missouri. Meetings occur on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. Meetings may be cancelled if no business is scheduled.

Board of Adjustment Meetings

Regular meetings of the Raymore Board of Adjustment begin at 6:00 PM and are held in the City Council Chambers, Raymore City Hall, 100 Municipal Circle, Raymore, Missouri. Meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of every month. Meetings may be cancelled if no business is scheduled.