Development Services

Responsibilities

The Development Services Department includes the Building Inspections and Planning & Zoning Divisions. The Department focuses on assisting residents and businesses through the required permitting processes for home or business projects (fences, signage, additions, etc.), opening a new business, home/building construction, historic property review process, etc. The Department also administers all Housing Urban Development programs including the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) and the Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME).

Building Inspection

The Building Inspection Division enforces all building codes and regulations. The Building code sets the minimum safety standards for all aspects of building construction: structural, fire, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems. Building codes provide local government with a way to guard the public's personal safety. Building Inspections performs inspections are necessary to verify that code standards are met, once inspections are completed permits will be issued. Codes apply whether a professional contractor or a "do-it-yourselfer" does the work.

Planning & Zoning 

The Planning and Zoning Division plays an important role in the physical development of the City. Zoning is a critical tool to protect citizens from inappropriate and incompatible land uses that might create a negative impact on surrounding properties. The Division also maintains and implements the City's Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan is a blueprint for the growth and development of the City. 

The Planning & Zoning Division provides zoning information related to permitted and prohibited land uses, setbacks, historic property information, special review processes, etc. Planning staff review and issue permits for signage, fences, accessory structures, new construction, new businesses, etc. Staff also investigate and follow-up with citizens regarding Middletown Development Code violations. 

 The Planning & Zoning Division oversees the Architecture Review Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, Historic Commission, and Planning Commission. More information is included on the Planning & Zoning page. 

HUD Programs

The City operates many programs funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that assists with affordable housing. More information on the Community Development page.