Ethics in Planning
A Code of Ethics for Today's Planners
Code of Ethics Update
The AICP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct guides and inspires ethical decision-making, while protecting AICP-certified planners when faced with controversial or difficult choices. The Code was updated in 2021 to reflect the ever-changing issues that planners face.
AICP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct
The AICP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct serves three purposes:
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Defines the aspirational principles for all those who participate in the planning process.
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Defines the rules of practice and behavior to which all members of AICP are held accountable.
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Defines the procedures for enforcement of these rules.
AICP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct
This Code is a guide to the ethical conduct required of AICP members. The Code also informs the public of the principles to which professional planners are committed.
Adopted November 2021, effective January 2022.
AICP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct Pledge
Display your commitment to ethics as a member of AICP with this printable certificate.
Actions Regarding Ethical Conduct
File a complaint of misconduct, seek informal advice, access annual reports
Most communications regarding specific ethics situations should occur through phone conversations with the AICP Ethics Officer.
- Filing a complaint of misconduct. If you believe an AICP member has violated the AICP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, consider submitting this AICP Ethical Conduct Complaint Form.
- Seeking informal advice. Contact the AICP Ethics Officer at 312-786-6360 if you would like to discuss a matter involving your professional conduct or matters involving other planners.
- Access the Annual Reports on Case Activity and Requests
AICP Code of Ethics Education
APA Ethical Principles in Planning
This statement is a guide to ethical conduct for all who participate in the process of planning as advisors, advocates, and decision-makers. It is a guide and not a code by which individuals may be held accountable.
Adopted by the APA Board, May 1992.
AICP Code of Ethics Rubric for Academic Programs
A resource provided by the AICP Commission to help academic programs meet the PAB requirement for teaching the AICP Code of Ethics. This resource can also be used by anyone interested in learning more about planning ethics.
AICP Ethics CM Guidance
AICP-certified planners pledge to uphold high standards of ethics and professional conduct. The ethics mandatory credit topic ensures that planners maintain an understanding of how the AICP Code of Ethics applies to evolving circumstances and trends in the practice of planning.
AICP Ethics Committee
Erin Perdu, AICP (MN), Co-Chair
Staron Faucher, AICP (TX), Co-Chair
Bob Barber, FAICP (MI)
Carol Barrett, FAICP (TX)
Anna M. Breinich, FAICP (PA)
Kimberley Mickelson, FAICP (TX)
Barry Nocks, FAICP (SC)
Robin Scholetzky, AICP (OR)
Arlova J. Vonhm, AICP (DC)
Staff Liaison: Ralph Willmer, FAICP, Ethics Officer