Land Use and Planning

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About the Department

The Department of Land Use & Planning (LU&P) guides Wilmington’s growth and physical development through comprehensive planning, zoning administration, permitting, and building code enforcement — all within one coordinated department.

Our mission is to promote responsible, equitable, and sustainable development that reflects the vision established in the Wilmington 2028 Comprehensive Plan: a city that is safe, connected, inclusive, and economically strong.

What We Do?

The Department aligns Wilmington’s long-term planning goals with daily development activity — ensuring that projects are reviewed efficiently, constructed safely, and contribute to the City’s future vision.

The Department oversees every stage of the development process, from concept to construction:

Planning and Policy

Prepare and implement the Wilmington 2028 Comprehensive Plan and related neighborhood and corridor plans.
Preparing the annual capital budget and capital improvement programs.
Conducts research on land use, economic development, and housing to inform data-driven policy.
Coordinates environmental and historic reviews for federally funded projects.
Promotes sustainable, equitable, and connected community growth through proactive planning initiatives.

Zoning and Development Review

Administers the City Zoning Ordinance or Zoning Code (Chapter 48) and interprets land use regulations.
Reviews site plans, subdivisions, rezonings, and annexations for conformance with City standards.
Oversees business use compliance and land use certifications.
Coordinates staff review of proposed projects to ensure alignment with planning policy and community context.

Historic Preservation and Design Review

Oversees Wilmington’s 12 Historic Districts and Design Review Areas.
Provides staff support to the Design Review and Preservation Commission (DRPC).
Ensures that new development and rehabilitation projects respect historic character and architectural quality.

Permitting and Building Code Enforcement

Reviews plans and issues building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits.
Conducts building inspections to ensure compliance with the International Building Code and City regulations.
Performs structural assessments in response to safety concerns, fire damage, or building collapse.
Provides clear guidance to builders, contractors, and property owners to support safe construction.

Key Responsibilities

Implementing the Wilmington 2028 Comprehensive Plan and related neighborhood strategies.
Reviewing and issuing building and trade permits.
Conducting zoning, business compliance, and site plan reviews.
Administering the City Planning Commission (CPC), Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA), and Design Review & Preservation Commission (DRPC).
Overseeing Wilmington’s Historic Districts and Design Review Areas.
Conducting structural safety inspections and code enforcement for active development.
Leveraging land use data, mapping, and research to support decision-making.
Partnering with community organizations and developers to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth.

Our Vision

To build a stronger Wilmington by integrating long-term planning, zoning, and building safety into one coordinated process — ensuring every project contributes to a city that is safe, equitable, and vibrant.

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