PlanFirst

Recognizing excellence in Comprehensive Planning

PlanFirst is a designation from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs that recognizes local governments demonstrating strong implementation of their Local Comprehensive Plan and measurable progress toward community goals.

• Check eligibility (email [email protected] by April 15)
• Attend Spring Webinars for New and Renewal Applicants

Applications are now open! Access the 2026 PlanFirst applications here.

Is PlanFirst Right for Your Community?

Your community may be eligible if you:

• Are a Qualified Local Government (QLG)
• Have a DCA-verified Service Delivery Strategy (SDS)
• Are current on required DCA reporting
• Meet your Regional Commission's performance standards 

What is PlanFirst?

Since 2015, the program has highlighted communities that demonstrate:

• Strong public involvement
• Active implementation of adopted plans
• Progress toward locally defined goals

Each local government must apply separately, even when participating in joint planning efforts. 

Why PlanFirst? (Benefits & Incentives)

• Statewide recognition as a PlanFirst community
• Eligibility to apply annually for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding
• Opportunity to apply for bonus points on housing programs
  • Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)
  • Community Home Investment Program (CHIP)

• Opportunity to apply for a reduced interest rate (1/2%) for water/sewer loans from Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA)
• Reduced interest rates if selected for these DCA programs:
  • Redevelopment Fund
  • Employment Incentive Program
  • Downtown Revolving Loan Fund
• Hands-on technical assistance from DCA staff

How Long Does PlanFirst Last?

• Designation lasts three calendar years
• Communities may reapply to renew for additional three-year periods

What’s Expected of PlanFirst Communities?

PlanFirst communities agree to:

• Continue striving for excellence in plan development and implementation
• Support staff participation as a PlanFirst Reviewer
• Present at Community Planning Institute events when requested
• Submit at least one annual implementation Success Story
• Maintain QLG status and current DCA reporting
• Make the comprehensive plan publicly available online

Maintaining Eligibility

• Loss of QLG or SDS status for more than three months may result in suspension
• Determinations are made on a case-by-case basis
• Communities without QLG or SDS status are not eligible to apply