What's New in DPD

June 2023

Message from the Director

DPD is forming a steering committee to provide recommendations for revisions to the Unified Development Code (UDC). This committee will include community stakeholders who are interested in reviewing a recent UDC audit report and providing feedback and suggestions for changes that aim to address opportunities for development in Memphis in alignment with Memphis 3.0.

Anyone interested in joining this committee can submit their qualifications, experience, and a brief explanation of their interest to this form by Friday, June 30, 2023. Applications will be reviewed in July, and selected participants will be notified by August 1. This committee will begin meeting to discuss the UDC audit report later in August 2023.

We are looking for candidates to fill the position of Building Inspector. The deadline to apply for this position is Friday, June 9, 2023.

Zoning Text Amendment Webinar

Did you miss the ZTA Webinar? The meeting recording and slide deck are now available to view. This webinar took place on Thursday, May 22, 2023.

In April 2023, new amendments were approved by the City and County to update the Unified Development Code (UDC). The updates, known as Zoning Text Amendments (ZTA), include the allowance of smaller single family and multi-family housing types within certain zoning districts. These housing types are typically not prevalent within Memphis and Shelby County and provide more housing options for all income levels. During the webinar, Director John Zeanah and Zoning Administrator Brett Ragsdale explained these housing types and what has changed to the UDC to allow these housing types in more places.

Develop 901 Citizen Portal Training Academy

Need some assistance in more effectively using the Develop 901 Citizen Portal? Want to train your team on the most relevant sections of the Portal? The Citizen Portal Training Academy features recorded training videos and printable quick reference guides for your convenience, allowing for portal training on your time and within your schedule.

The Citizen Portal Training Academy is accessible from the Develop 901 website.

User Feedback for Develop 901 Website

As we improve user experience, we’d like your feedback on your use of the Develop 901 website. (This is the primary website for the Division of Planning and Development, not the Citizen Portal.) Do you have trouble finding or accessing specific information or resources? Is there information that you think should be highlighted on the website for easy access? Please let us know in this survey.

Mortgage and Utility Assistance

Lead Hazard Reduction Program

If you or someone you know lives in a home built before 1978 and also has a child or children (6 years or younger) who spend time in the home, then contact the SCDH Lead Hazard Control Program about a free lead inspection at (901) 222-LEAD. Eligible residents may receive free lead paint removal services. For more information about the program, visit this site.

Applications are now accepted online via the website Neighborly. Use this site to register and create a new account before beginning an application.

Staff Announcements

Alexis Longstreet joined Land Use and Development Services last month as a new Planner I. Alexis graduated from the University of Kentucky and previously worked for the City of Lincoln (Nebraska).

The Shelby County Department of Housing is adding new talent to their ranks! Please extend a warm welcome to Victoria Snelling, who started on June 1, as the new Housing Rehabilitation Manager. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and close friends, hiking, and watching the Memphis Grizzlies and U of M basketball teams. She is excited to have the opportunity to collaborate with the team on assisting the residents of Shelby County.

Congratulations to Permit Technician Denesha Smith who welcomed a beautiful baby boy into her family last month!