The Department of Community Development includes the divisions of Planning and Zoning, Building and Safety and Physical Plant Operations. It is responsible for overseeing many areas of civic policy regarding quality of life in Wauwatosa.
The department reviews and issues permits and conducts inspections of existing properties and new construction. It is responsible for enforcing ordinances related to building safety and code compliance, as well as for developing long-term strategies intended to ensure an appropriate balance in the needs of residents, businesses and institutions.