The Portage la Prairie Planning District was established in 2002 by the City of Portage la Prairie and the RM of Portage la Prairie to ensure standardized planning requirements though an updated development plan and zoning by-law encompassing both municipal jurisdictions. This promotes a regional approach to industrial, agricultural, and urban fringe development.

The Planning Disctrict office looks after building inspections, planning, permits (building, demolition, plumbing, moving, etc.) variations, conditional uses and zoning for both municipalities.