Des Moines Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Des Moines, IA. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
215,408
Total Zone Types
28
Planning Department
Des Moines Community Development Department
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Polk County
Metro Area
Des Moines-West Des Moines
Des Moines Zoning System
The Des Moines zoning system includes 28 total zone classifications: 6 residential zones (R1-60, R1-80, R-2, R-3, R-4, and others) and 5 commercial zones (NC, C-1, C-2, C-3, and others), as well as 3 mixed-use zones (MX-1, MX-2, MX-URB) and 2 industrial zones (I-1, I-2). Des Moines is Iowa's capital city and largest metro area, serving as the insurance industry capital of the United States — Principal Financial Group, Nationwide Insurance, EMC Insurance, and other major insurers are headquartered here. The city's zoning is governed by the Des Moines Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 134 of the City Code), comprehensively updated in 2018. Des Moines uses a modified Euclidean zone system with residential zones designated by type and minimum lot size (R1-60 reflects a 6,000 sqft minimum lot). The city spans 90 square miles along the Des Moines River and Raccoon River confluence. Des Moines's housing stock is diverse — from pre-WWI workers' cottages in Sherman Hill to mid-century ranches in Drake neighborhood and new construction in the western suburbs annexed into city limits. Des Moines's affordable land costs and business-friendly reputation have driven steady population growth since 2000. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Des Moines Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Des Moines Building Department (Des Moines Permit and Development Center) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (515) 283-4200 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:30pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the Des Moines Community Development Department at (515) 283-4182. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU (garage apartment or in-law suite) in Des Moines?
Yes. Des Moines's Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 134) allows ADUs in residential zones. Detached ADUs up to 900 sqft are permitted in rear yards. No owner-occupancy is required. One parking space is required per ADU. Des Moines has some of the lowest ADU permitting costs among major US cities — no impact fees and affordable plan review fees. Contact the Permit and Development Center at (515) 283-4200.
What is the Sherman Hill Historic District and how does it affect permits?
Sherman Hill is a Victorian-era residential neighborhood immediately west of the Iowa State Capitol — one of the best-preserved late 19th-century neighborhoods in Iowa. If your home is in the Sherman Hill Historic District, exterior changes (including additions, siding replacements, window changes, and ADU construction visible from the street) require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Des Moines Historic Preservation Commission before you can obtain a building permit. Interior changes do not require historic review. Contact the Des Moines Community Development Department at (515) 283-4182.
Does MidAmerican Energy offer incentives for residential solar in Des Moines?
MidAmerican Energy (a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company) provides net metering for residential solar systems. Iowa does not have a state solar mandate, but MidAmerican has committed to 100% renewable energy for its customers — making them generally cooperative with solar interconnection. A Des Moines building permit and MidAmerican interconnection agreement are required before installing grid-tied solar. Contact MidAmerican Energy's Renewable Energy department or a licensed Iowa solar contractor.
What are the flood risks for Des Moines properties?
Des Moines has significant flood history — the 1993 and 2008 floods were catastrophic, covering portions of downtown and west Des Moines. Properties along the Des Moines River and Raccoon River corridors may be in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) requiring flood insurance and elevated construction standards. Use FEMA's Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) to check your property's flood zone. Des Moines Water Works manages the water supply, and the city has invested in flood control infrastructure since 1993.
What permits do I need for a deck or fence in Des Moines?
Fences under 6 ft in side and rear yards do not require a permit. Fences in front yards or over 6 ft require a permit from the Des Moines Permit Center ($40-$150). All elevated decks (30+ inches from grade) require a building permit. Deck permits cost $75-$400 depending on size. Both can be applied for online at dsm.city. Inspections are required for deck construction.
Source: Des Moines Code of Ordinances Chapter 134 (Zoning); Des Moines Building Code. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source