Registered Community Organization Program

Pittsburgh’s RCO Program provides a framework for neighborhood stakeholders to participate in development decisions, improves communication between community organizations, developers, and City departments, and strengthens local civic engagement.

What is a RCO?

A nonprofit community group registered with the Department of City Planning to serve as a liaison for a defined area in development review processes. RCOs share information, support neighborhood engagement, and Development Activities Meetings (D.A.M.s) for development review projects.

What are the benefits of becoming an RCO?

  • Receive notice of local projects requiring a public hearing that meet a development threshold.
  • Guaranteed Development Activity Meeting (D.A.M.) with project developer/applicant prior to a public hearing for projects meeting a D.A.M. threshold.
  • Develop Neighborhood Plans in collaboration with the DCP so that they may be adopted by the Planning Commission.
  • Featured on official maps, brochures, and directories as part of the City RCO network. Become a part of a citywide network of community groups that receive resources and training from the DCP.

RCO Responsibilities

  • Coordinate with applicants and neighborhood planners to schedule D.A.M.s.
  • Notify residents, property owners, businesses, and stakeholders of D.A.M. details.
  • Post meeting agendas, minutes, and decisions on the organization’s website.
  • Maintain open and respectful communication.
  • Renew registration every two years.

Key Policies

  • Executive sessions and personnel matters are exempt from posting.
  • Meeting decisions and minutes must be posted within 90 days.
  • RCOs must provide at least 10 days’ notice for D.A.M.s.
  • D.A.M.s may not be held on holidays or holiday-adjacent days.
  • Organizations receive two 30‑day violation notices before being delisted. D.A.M.s must be scheduled within 45 days of applicant request. 
  • Public hearings must occur within one year of the D.A.M.

What is their role in the Development Activity Meeting process?

  • Notify affected residents, community members and stakeholders about upcoming D.A.M. at least 10 days prior to the meeting.
  • Convene and host D.A.M. at an open, ADA accessible facility or virtually.
  • Engage with applicant (developer) with meaningful feedback about the proposed project.
  • Create agenda and take meeting notes for D.A.M.
  • Share notes publicly with affected groups in geography.

Eligibility Requirements

Organizations must be a 501(c)(3) or partnered with one; have bylaws, a mission, nondiscrimination policy, defined boundaries, a communication strategy, open public meetings, a transparent Board process, a website with required documents, and a letter from the relevant Council District.

Review the application for more detailed eligibility requirements.

   

Helpful Links

RCO information

DAM resources

Contact Information

RCO Program Administration
Department of City Planning
412 Boulevard of the Allies, Suite 201
Pittsburgh, PA 15219

RCOprogram@pittsburghpa.gov

 

 

 

last updated: 04/03/2026

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