Three rolls of blueprints sitting on an architectural table

Mission

Our mission is to guide the growth and development of the City in a way that preserves Winder's rich heritage while proactively shaping a future that is sustainable, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all our residents.

Land Use

Looking for information about how land is managed, developed, and preserved in the City of Winder? You're in the right place!

Whether you're a resident, business owner, developer, or just curious about the City's growth, you'll find everything you need to understand and participate in Winder's land use planning process. Explore our resources to: 

  • Learn about current zoning regulations and land use policies.
  • Review updates to the City’s Comprehensive Plan.
  • Access forms, permits, and other helpful documents.
  • Discover opportunities to provide feedback and participate in public hearings.

We’re committed to balancing growth, sustainability, and quality of life for everyone who calls Winder home. Thank you for being an active part of shaping our vibrant community! 

If you have questions or need assistance, feel free to email our Planning and Development Services Department.

To apply for a permit, visit our Citizen Portal.

See Calendar A (PDF) for 2026 submittal deadlines and public hearing dates regarding Conditional Uses, Variances, Preliminary Plats of 1-Acre or Less, Commercial/Industrial, Governmental Rezones, and Residential Rezones of 1-Acre or Less.

See Calendar B (PDF) for 2026 submittal deadlines and public hearing dates regarding Annexations, Planned Unit Development Zoning, Developments of Regional Impact, Preliminary Plats of More than 1-Acre, and Residential Rezones of More than 1-Acre.

The City of Winder first enacted a zoning ordinance in 1989. After a number of subsequent amendments, this Zoning Ordinance was adopted on April 7, 2020 and became effective on April 8, 2020. Among other things, the purpose of this ordinance is to promote the health, safety, aesthetics, growth, and general welfare of the present and future inhabitants of the City. Learn more by reading Appendix A in our Code of Ordinances.

Consideration of land use applications by the City of Winder are governed by our Policies and Procedures (PDF). A land use application is defined as an application for subdivision, annexation, zoning/rezoning, conditional use variances, variances and/ore any other application that by ordinance requires an advisory review or adjudication by the City council. 

Also see: Sec. 11-5. Hearing Procedures

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  • Property Owner Authorization (PDF)
  • Completing a Narrative for Planned Unit Development Zoning Requests (PDF)
  • Final Plat Inspection Checklist (PDF)
  • 2025 Winder Transportation Plan (PDF)
  • 2023 Comprehensive Plan (PDF)
  • Downtown Master Plan (PDF)
  • Rose Hill Master Plan (PDF)
  • Complete Streets and Trails Plan (PDF)
  • LCI : Plan and 5 Year Update (PDF)

Department of Community Affairs Compliance Statement

The City of Winder has reviewed the Department of Community Affair’s Analysis of Impediments. Read the 2016 State of Georgia Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (PDF) here.

Upon request, the City has bilingual staff available for Spanish language translation. Please contact Carolina Mendez at 678-425-6859 for Spanish language translation services.