The Town and Country Planning Department (TCPD), operating under the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, is mandated to ensure the proper use of land and sustainable spatial development throughout the Virgin Islands.
Guided by the Physical Planning Act, 2004, and supported by regulations including the BVIEC Regulations (1999), BVI Renewable Energy Regulations (2018), and Building Regulations (1999), the Department functions as the secretariat for the Planning Authority and administers integrated land use planning and development control. Its responsibilities include preparing development plans, granting permissions for land development, regulating building and electrical standards, and safeguarding environmental amenities.
Following the 2019 merger of the Electrical Unit and Building Authority functions, the Department adopted a holistic approach to managing the built environment, promoting orderly and progressive development in both urban and rural areas, protecting natural resources, and ensuring resilience and sustainability in territorial growth.
Vision
The Town and Country Planning Department (TCPD) leads sustainable development in the British Virgin Islands by promoting wise land use, preserving cultural heritage, and safeguarding the built environment. Through integrated planning, structural and electrical inspections, we ensure safety, resilience, and quality for every community. Guided by professionalism, collaboration, and innovation, we build a future where heritage and progress thrive together.
Mission
The Town and Country Planning Department (TCPD) is committed to guiding sustainable development in the British Virgin Islands through comprehensive planning, structural and electrical oversight, and the preservation of cultural heritage. We strive to ensure safety, resilience, and quality in the built environment by issuing permits, conducting rigorous inspections, and fostering transparent collaboration with stakeholders. Our mission is to balance progress with preservation—creating communities that are functional, safe, and deeply connected to their heritage.
Core Values
At the Town and Country Planning Department we believe that:
- Sustainability We prioritize responsible land use and development practices that protect the environment and ensure long-term resilience for future generations.
- Integrity We uphold the highest ethical standards in planning, permitting, and inspections, ensuring transparency and fairness in all decisions.
- Safety & Quality We are committed to safeguarding lives and property through rigorous structural and electrical oversight, promoting safe and resilient communities.
- Collaboration We foster strong partnerships with stakeholders, encouraging open dialogue and teamwork to achieve shared goals.
- Cultural Preservation We respect and protect the rich heritage of the British Virgin Islands, integrating cultural values into planning and development.
- Innovation We embrace modern planning techniques and technologies to deliver efficient, forward thinking solutions for sustainable growth.
- Professionalism We maintain excellence in service delivery through continuous training, accountability, and dedication to our mandate.
