Planning Department

The Planning Department's mission is to support and promote quality development. By preserving what the City of Wayne already has, enhancing those elements that can be improved, and diversifying options, Wayne can continue to be among the nation's preeminent places to live, work, and raise a family for many years to come.

Overview

Staff members provide relevant zoning and land development assistance to existing and prospective residents and businesses including guidance to applicants seeking approval for Certificates of Occupancy, Re-Zoning, Variances, Site Plans, Planned Unit Developments (PUDs), and Brownfield Redevelopment Plans for Tax Increment Financing (TIF).

The staff also assists businesses by establishing and implementing a business expansion and retention program, site and facility location assistance, providing guidance when seeking state and local incentives for establishing and/or locating a business, and introductions to resources that support companies' talent and business development needs.

Opening a Business

The City of Wayne requires businesses to have a Certificate of Occupancy (Zoning Compliance) before opening a new business. The Zoning Compliance assures compliance with city zoning requirements. A Zoning Compliance Application ($100) fee and inspection fee ($350) must be submitted to start the inspection process to obtain a valid Certificate of Occupancy. The property will be inspected by five different inspectors. You must get approval from the fire department, mechanical, electrical and plumbing inspectors and then a final from the building inspector. Once you have all five approvals a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued allowing you to move into the property and open your business.

The City of Wayne aims to assist prospective business owners in opening their business in our community. While there is information available on the website, we encourage you to contact City staff members early in the process to ensure the most efficient use of your time and to discuss permit and approval requirements.

Team Approach

Our team approach is based on the principles of retention, expansion, attraction, and leadership. The City of Wayne wants you to succeed, and we share your priorities of completing a project on time and on budget. The city collaborates with you to provide one point of contact, a fast response to your needs, and the flexibility required to achieve your goals. Your goal of doing business in Wayne is the City's goal also.

The Master Plan

This plan sets forth a basic framework for the development and future growth of Wayne in the way that residents and community members aspire. It sets goals and guides decision making on land use, development standards, non-motorized transportation, housing, community facilities and more. Because community goals can and will change over time, the Master Plan is re-evaluated and updated every five years. The plan is always prepared with citizen input and visioning.

Zoning Ordinance

This is a written regulation and law that defines how property in specific zones can be used. Zoning ordinances specify whether zones can be used for residential or commercial purposes, and may also regulate lot size, placement of building, bulk (or density) and the height of structures.

Contact Us

If you have questions at any point in the process, please contact:

First Point of Contact: Brendan Esper, Planner/Engineer

Planning Department