The primary aim of the planning system is to ensure that all those who have an interest in the planning and sustainable development of the County have an input to the formulation and implementation of planning policies. The planning department is responsible for the operation of this system in the County through the implementation of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 - 2007.

This act covers such issues as development plans, local area plans, regional planning guidelines and directives, control of development, architectural heritage, housing supply, An Bord Pleanála, disclosure of interests, enforcement, strategic development zones, environmental impact assessment, development by local and state authorities, compensation, amenities, acquisition of land, events and funfairs etc.

The County Development Plan is the main public statement of planning policies, objectives and development management. The council is required to make a development plan every six years. The development plan consists of a written statement and a series of maps. The written statement sets out the land use, amenity and development objectives and policies of the council for the development of the County.
The maps, which are an integral part of the plan, indicate by colour, hatching, symbols and reference numbers the objectives of the council.

The Development Plan includes objectives for:-
1. zoning of areas for residential, commercial, industrial and other purposes
2. traffic safety and road improvements
3. provision of water supplies and sewerage services
4. preserving, improving and extending amenities
5. management of use of buildings
6. community planning
7. recreation and tourism
8. reservation of land