American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which county's planning commission, created in 1921, was the first of its kind in the United States?

1. Los Angeles County

2. Cook County

3. Miami-Dade County

4. Travis County

The correct answer is: Los Angeles County

Los Angeles County's planning commission, established in 1921, holds the distinction of being the first formal planning commission in the United States. This landmark development played a crucial role in shaping urban planning practices across the country. The creation of this commission was significant as it reflected a growing recognition of the importance of organized planning in managing urban growth, land use, and community development. The establishment of a planning commission allowed for a more structured approach to urban planning, providing a framework for addressing issues such as zoning, infrastructure development, and environmental concerns. By initiating this institutional mechanism, Los Angeles County set a precedent that influenced many other jurisdictions to follow suit in the following decades as the need for effective planning in rapidly urbanizing areas became increasingly evident. The other counties mentioned did not establish their planning commissions as early as Los Angeles. This historical context highlights the pioneering role of Los Angeles County's planning commission in the evolution of planning governance in the United States.