“Planning,” in a community context, means guiding how a city grows so that development supports the health, safety, and overall well-being of its residents. In Tipton, this work includes creating long-range strategies for the city’s future and using zoning and subdivision rules to manage development decisions made every day.
· Comprehensive Plan: The City of Tipton’s Comprehensive Plan outlines the community’s long-term vision, goals, and growth strategies.
· Unified Development Ordinance (UDO): The UDO contains the city’s zoning standards and subdivision regulations. These rules determine what can be built, where, and how development should occur to ensure alignment with the city’s goals.
· Zoning Map: The Zoning Map shows zoning districts and overlay districts. Use this map to check a property's zoning, then refer to the UDO to see which uses are permitted and which development standards apply.
· Building Codes and Other Permits: Indiana’s building codes regulate how structures must be constructed for safety and durability. Some projects also require state or federal permits issued by the relevant agencies. Please refer to the Permits page for more information about the permit process.
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission is the primary body responsible for administering planning and development decisions. You can learn more about the Commission on this page.
Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA)
The BZA is a quasi-judicial board that reviews variances from development standards, variances of use, special exception requests, administrative appeals, and provides interpretations of the UDO when necessary. More information is available on the Board’s page.
City Council
As Tipton’s legislative and fiscal authority, the City Council oversees:
• Annexations
• Changes to the zoning map
• Updates to the UDO
• Planned Unit Development (PUD) ordinances
• Work or events affecting the public right-of-way
• Acceptance of public improvements and dedications of land or corresponding performance and maintenance bonds
City Staff
The zoning administrator, building inspector, engineer, and other municipal department leaders support the City Council, Planning Commission, and Board of Zoning Appeals by reviewing development proposals, enforcing regulations, and assisting residents.