Community Development

The Community Development Department assist residents and businesses through the provision of a variety of programs and services that support private development, promotes safe housing, and encourages quality of life throughout the community.  The Community Development Department:

  • Administers and Enforces Zoning and Subdivision Codes
  • Community Development Block Grant Administration
  • Development Review
  • Economic Development Assistance
  • Historic Preservation
  • Neighborhood Development
  • Zoning and Building Permit Approvals
  • Development of Sustainability Initiatives, including implementation of the City's Climate Action Plan


Supporting Boards & Commissions

The Planning and Zoning Division of the Community Development Department provides staff support to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Sustainability Commission, Architectural Review Board and the Community Reinvestment Area Housing Council.

Fair Housing & Tenant-Landlord Counseling

Fair Housing inquires can be directed to Fair Housing Contact Service, Inc. (FHCS) at 330-376-6191, or toll free at 1-877-376-6191. Any inquires related to tenant-landlord counseling can be directed to FHCS at 330-376-0359. Additionally, many resources on housing discrimination, renter's rights, and housing counseling can be on the FHCS website.

The City of Kent contracts with Fair Housing Contact Services for the provision of Fair Housing Services, any questions can be directed to Dan Morganti in the City's Community Development Department at 330-678-8108. Do you know your fair housing rights (PDF)?