Planning & Development

Digital Submittal Instructions

The Department of Planning and Development has recently partnered with iWorQ System to improve the permitting and inspection process, allow for a complete digital experience for the customer and work towards implementing a paperless Department. 

To apply for a permit, please use the following Permit Portal: https://duluthpermit.portal.iworq.net/portalhome/duluthpermit

The Planning & Development Department is dedicated to providing the highest level of quality customer service to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Duluth.  In addition to the areas of responsibility below, this department is responsible for:

• Managing applications for land use changes and modifications
• Enforcing city codes and ordinances
• Reviewing Plans
• Issuing Permits
• Conducting Inspections
• Providing  transportation planning management
• Supporting marketing and local events
• Verifying site and hydrology compliance

The Department performs these duties with the assistance of the City’s ordinances and regulations, the elected officials, citizens, developers, builders, city employees and sometimes the expertise of outside agencies. The Planning and Development Department also oversees the City's Comprehensive Plan and coordinates long-range planning efforts with other government agencies at the County, State, and Federal levels.

Our Mission
Planning & Development is committed to building up the City of Duluth while improving the quality of life for current and future citizens, businesses, and visitors.

Areas of Responsibility

• Building Inspection
• Capital Improvement Project Administration
• Code Compliance
• License Compliance
• Engineering
• General Permitting Activities
• Planning
• Redevelopment Administration
• Site Development Inspections
• Stormwater Inspections and Maintenance
• Transportation Planning
• Zoning

Contact Information and Hours of Operation
Contact us by using the email list below or by telephone at 770.476.1790. Visit us in person during regular City Hall business hours, Monday – Friday from 8:00am - 4:30pm.

Personnel

Department Administration
Planning & Development Director: Bill Aiken
Administrative Assistant: Carol Hill

Planning Division
Senior Planner: Dan Robinson
Planner & GIS Specialist: Forrest Huffman

Compliance Division
Code Compliance Officer: Shelley Shepphard
Code Compliance Officer: Liz Bradshaw
Code Compliance Officer: Marcus Head
License Compliance Officer: John Compton

Engineering Division
City Engineer: Margie Shames Pozin

Building and Development Division
Building Official: Joe Stapleton
Development Coordinator: Layla Corley

Stormwater Division
Stormwater Program Manager: Joshua Arnold
Stormwater Administrative Assistant: Rhonda West