Comprehensive Plan Update 2026-2031

The Georgia Planning Act of 1989 is state legislation that established a coordinated, comprehensive planning process for all local governments and Regional Commissions in Georgia, to guide future growth and development. Georgia requires every local government to develop and maintain a comprehensive plan with required elements (standards). These plans, established under the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), outline a community's vision, goals, and strategies for future growth and development. Local governments must update their comprehensive plans regularly, at least every five (5) years, and provide opportunities for public input to ensure community needs are addressed. Tybee Island’s last comprehensive plan, and also the current plan, is the 2021-2026 Comprehensive Plan Update.

The 2026-2031 Plan Update is anticipated to be the guiding document for development on Tybee Island, augmenting the work of the 2016 Master Plan and the 2021-2026 Update. This plan will meet the general requirements of the DCA’s Minimum Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning. 

Follow along with the Stakeholder Committee, review documents, and complete the visioning survey at talktyb.org/comprehensiveplan20262031.

The City of Tybee Island’s Comprehensive Plan will include the following required elements:

1. Executive Summary
2. Introduction
3. Community Profile
4. Vision and Goals
5. Needs and Opportunities
6. Land Use
7. Transportation
8. Broadband
9. Community Work Program
10. Housing 
11. Economic Development 
12. Report of Accomplishments
13. Appendices

Anticipated Timeline:

• February 12, 2026: Kickoff Meeting with City Council and Coastal Regional Commission (CRC)
• February 17, 2026: Stakeholder Meeting #1
• March 10, 2026: Stakeholder Meeting #2
• April 14, 2026: Stakeholder Meeting #3 
• Early June 2026: Coastal Regional Commission (CRC) completes draft plan for review
• June 2026: Open House with city staff
• Early July 2026: Finalize plan
• July 2026: Public Hearing(s)
• August/September 2026: DCA review (DCA has up to 45 days to review the plan)
• September/October 2026: Council adopts the DCA-approved plan. QLG status award