City Development Navigation Center

The Business & Economic Development Department serves as an ombudsman-style resource for development activity in Southfield. While each City department manages its own reviews and approvals, our team is available to help applicants understand the process, connect with the appropriate staff, and troubleshoot issues when they arise.

In alignment with the goals of Michigan’s Redevelopment Ready Communities program, the City of Southfield provides development information and online applications that are accessible 24/7, giving developers, businesses, and property owners clear, predictable pathways to move their projects forward at any time.

Core Development Review Departments

Planning Department

Oversees zoning, site plans, special land uses, rezonings, and long-range land use planning. Helps ensure development aligns with the City’s ordinance, master plan, and community vision.

Planning Department Applications & Information

Building Department

Reviews construction documents, issues building and trade permits, and conducts inspections to ensure structures meet all applicable building, safety, and code requirements.

Building Department Information

Engineering Department

Manages site infrastructure review including grading, utilities, stormwater, soil erosion, right-of-way permits, and compliance with engineering standards for public and private development.

Engineering Department Permit Applications & Information

Additional Supporting Departments

City Clerk's Office

Handles business licenses required for certain types of businesses as specified in the Southfield City Code, as well as notarized applications, public records, meeting notices, and voter and election services.

Clerk's Office Forms

Assessing Department

Determines the assessed value of real and personal property, maintains property records, and assists with questions related to taxable value and property transfers. The department also receives and coordinates the review of master deeds, land divisions, and property combinations.

Assessing Department Information

Purchasing Department

Oversees procurement for City projects, vendor registration, and bidding procedures, ensuring transparency and compliance in the acquisition of goods and services.

Purchasing Department Information

Department of Public Works

Manages public utilities including water and sewer service, infrastructure maintenance, and connection or service requirements for new development or redevelopment projects.

DPW Public Works Water & Sewer Information

City Treasurer's Office

Collects and processes all City revenues, including property taxes, assessments, and utility payments. The Treasurer’s Office also provides information on State and local tax obligations, payment schedules, and tax inquiries—an important resource for businesses, developers, and property owners navigating project financing and ownership responsibilities.

City Treasurer's Office Information