Homeland Security Begins at Home: Local Planning and Regulatory Review to Improve Security

Abstract

The United States faces the threat of terrorist attacks. As with most risks, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood and mitigate the impact of such attacks. Many of these steps are the province of intelligence and law enforcement agencies and designated first responders. However, some, such as review of building design, lighting and landscaping plans, and the protection of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems, and parking facilities, to name a few, are or could be part of the process for land use review and approval.