Planning and Community Development

In Dover, Planning and Community Development is administered by the Planning Department. The department has worked to implement changes to the land use regulations, which are geared toward promoting smart growth. This type of growth looks to balance environmental needs with human/economic needs. 

Using the Web, we hope to serve you in the best possible manner. If we can be of service, please do not hesitate to call or email our office.

2021 Land Use Regulations and Zoning Amendments:

• View the recently posted Zoning amendments .
• View the posted Zoning amendments to the Floodplain Development ordinance
• View the recently posted Site Review Regulation amendments.
• View the recently posted Subdivision of Land Regulation amendments.

Planning Department's COVID-19 operating procedures

Beginning June 22nd, City Hall will be open to customers. The public will be able to continue to communicate and conduct business via phone and email, as well as in person. We can hold in person or virtual meetings.

To review all of the City's actions and information regarding COVID-19, click here. 

Land Use Regulations 

Interested in developing in Dover?

We have created a handbook in Dover to assist property owners and developers in developing and redeveloping their property. View it here.

The City of Dover's land use regulations can be found in the following chapters of the City Code:

Chapter 153, Site Review Regulations. View online here.

Chapter 157, Subdivision of Land. View online here.

Chapter 170, Zoning. View online here.

Have a question?

Check our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

Mission Statement

To facilitate the process of determining Dover’s long-range development goals and advocate the implementation of these goals once they are established with particular emphasis on economic development; to serve the public as a source of information and data about the community; to develop and fairly administer regulatory processes that apply to development and construction with an emphasis on assisting the public, and to provide expertise for special projects with emphasis on GIS, economic development, transportation and land use.  

Major Service Responsibilities for the Planning Office

• Maintain and implement the City’s Master Plan
• Maintain and administer the approval process for development and subdivision of land 
• Staff the Planning Board, Conservation Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment and City Council for their respective land use and development issues
• Serve as an information source on the City and development process for the public, City departments and applicants
• Represent the City on regional and state committees and projects
• Conduct research and grant writing
• Conduct special projects as assigned by the City Manager or any of the City’s Boards and Commissions  

Boards Served

• Cochecho Waterfront Development Advisory Committee
• Community Trail Advisory Committee
• Conservation Commission
• Energy Commission
• Open Lands Committee
• Planning Board
• Transportation Advisory Committee
• Zoning Board of Adjustment

Planning Department Documents

Click here to view a list of all Planning Department documents.

Planning Department Forms