Middletown Development Code Update

In 2025, Middletown began the process of updating its zoning and subdivision regulations. The existing Development Code was last comprehensively updated in 2018 and needs modernizing to reflect development preferences, review administrative procedures, ensure consistency with adopted City plans since the last update, and to implement the Destination Middletown Comprehensive Plan which was adopted by City Council in 2022.

Unlike the previous Development Code update in 2018, this effort will focus on technical amendments to implement the community-wide vision established in the Destination Middletown Comprehensive Plan. Through this effort, the City aims to modernize and streamline the development review process, prepare easy-to-understand development standards, and comply with changes in State and Federal law.

The Development Code Update will evaluate existing zoning districts, allowed land uses, and development standards, as well as requirements for subdivisions. In addition, the City will evaluate opportunities to streamline development review processes to provide clarity for project approval and transparency for the public and City decision makers. The updated Development Code is slated for adoption in late 2026.

Active & Upcoming Engagements

The Middletown Development Code Update has planned community engagement touchpoints scheduled through 2025 and 2026.

Below is a list of currently open and planned engagement opportunities. The timeframes below are subject to change, so please check back in to this webpage frequently. We look forward to your participation!

Development Code Update Process

Documents for Public Review

Check back soon when documents are available for public review!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Development Code? How is it different than the current Zoning Code?

A Development Code unifies a jurisdiction’s zoning regulations, subdivision regulations, and design standards into a single document. Combining these ordinances and standards will make the Code more user-friendly and aligned with contemporary planning practices.

What are zoning regulations?

Zoning is the process used by communities to regulate the use and development of property. The purpose of zoning regulations are to specify which uses are allowed on a given property, establish development standards, and implement the comprehensive plan. Middletown’s zoning regulations classify land by district, covering various types of land use such as residential, commercial, industrial, and open space. By classifying land into these broad categories, the City can assign specific development standards (e.g., lot size, building height, yard setbacks), to maintain compatible and consistent development within a given area. These standards emphasize the importance of the interaction between building facades, site plans, public spaces, and neighboring development.

What are subdivision regulations?

Subdivision regulations further regulate development in the city by setting forth procedures and requirements for the division or merging of land into parcels. Proper subdivision regulations ensure that new developments on subdivided land are provided adequate utilities, services, access, and public improvements.

Past Community Engagement Events

City Council Meeting | September 2, 2025

The City initiated the Middletown Development Code Update with an introductory presentation to the City Council. This meeting focused on an introduction to the City Planning and Consultant team and the roles the City Council, Planning Commission, and community will have in the project. The Consultant Team led the Council through an overview of the Development Code Update, provided a crash course on zoning, explained the planned community engagement process, and facilitated a discussion on project expectations. To view the meeting, please click the link below.

City Council Video: CLICK HERE!

Public Workshop #1 | October 2, 2025

Planning Commission Study Session #1: Administrative Provisions | November 13, 2025

Middletown Development Code Survey | October 13, 2025 - December 12, 2025

Planning Commission Study Session #2: Zoning District Provisions | January 22, 2026

Send us a comment or question!

Have a comment or question for the Development Code Update Team? Send us a comment! Please use the following email to send a message directly to our team.

claire.binegar@cityofmiddletown.org