The Development Services Department provides strategic and long-term planning, reviews development projects for compliance with planning, zoning, and subdivision codes; issues permits and inspects construction projects; and manages economic incentive programs including Tax Abatement, Tax Increment Financing, and other programs that assist business retention and expansion. 

To better address the changing goals of Des Moines over the next 20 to 30 years, we are realigning our Economic Development and Community Development departments. This will allow the City to concentrate on both our neighborhoods and commercial development while continuing thoughtful long-term planning, innovative revitalization efforts and sound economic development.  

Development Services Organizational Chart

Employment opportunities for the Planning and Urban Design Administrator, Economic Development Administrator, and Deputy Planning Administrator positions will be posted in 2020.

For more information regarding the reorganization and the Development Services Department feel free to contact: 

Erin Olson-Douglas: eodouglas@dmgov.org 
Michael Ludwig: mgludwig@dmgov.org