Community Development

The Community Development Department issues building permits, provides inspectional services and is responsible for zoning and planning functions.  The Department administers and enforces the provisions of the International Building Code and provides support for the Architectural Commission, Plan Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals.

Other functions include health and sanitation inspections, enforcement of the property maintenance code for residential and commercial properties, inspection of rental dwelling units, review of subdivisions, processing zoning applications, building code variations, and administration of the Community Development Block Grant.  Staff advises the Mayor and City Council on all matters affecting the growth, development, redevelopment, and overall planning of the City.

The Department is involved with citizens, architects, contractors, developers and builders, providing assistance at every step in the building process from the initial design stage to final inspection of the completed project.  Permits are required for all construction including additions, remodeling, repair and demolition.  Permits are also required for signs, swimming pools, fences, roofs, sheds, decks, patios, driveways, and sidewalks,  Permit fees vary with the nature and scope of the work.  Read more about what projects required a permit and permit fees in this section.  If you have any other question about permits, please call the Community Development Department at 847-391-5370.