Zoning Enforcement

Overview

Zoning enforcement is a complaint-based enforcement program. Residents can contact the Planning Services Department at 563-589-4210 or by email to inquire into the status of enforcement cases related to the following: 

  • Off-street parking and vehicle storage on private property
  • Illegal use in a specific zoning district

Off-Street Parking & Vehicle Storage

In Residential Neighborhoods

We all take pride in how our neighborhoods look. Too many vehicles stored on a residential lot can make a property appear cluttered and may reduce its value. To help keep neighborhoods safe, clean, and attractive, the City of Dubuque has established the following provisions for parking and storage of vehicles on residential lots

What Is a Vehicle?

Vehicles include:

  • Automobiles
  • Trucks
  • Motorcycles
  • Snowmobiles
  • Trailers
  • Campers
  • Pickups
  • Recreational vehicles (RVs)

What Is Off-Street Parking?

  • A vehicle parked on your lot for less than 48 hours is considered parked.
  • You may park one or more vehicles on your driveway for up to 48 hours without moving them.

Where Can I Park a Vehicle?

You may only park on a surface paved with:

  • Asphalt
  • Concrete
  • Pavers

What Is a Stored Vehicle?

A vehicle that stays in one place on your lot for more than 48 hours is considered stored.

Can I Store More Than One Vehicle Outside?

  • No. Only one vehicle may be stored outside on your lot.
  • It must be in the rear yard, on a paved surface, and meet setback requirements.
  • An RV may count as your one stored vehicle.
  • The stored vehicle must be operable.

What Is an Inoperable Vehicle?

A vehicle is considered inoperable if it:

  • Has missing or expired license plates
  • Is missing a window, headlight, engine, wheel, or other essential parts
  • Cannot move forward or backward

Where to Report Inoperable or Unlawfully Stored Vehicles

On Private Property:

Planning Services Department
Phone: 563-589-4210

  • Submit a request online to the Planning Services/Zoning
  • You must provide a specific address
  • Complaints may be submitted anonymously

On a City Street, Alley, or Public Right-of-Way:

The City of Dubuque requires that a vehicle has to be parked on a City street and not moved for 24 hours to be considered as a street storage complaint. 

Police Department
Non-emergency dispatch: 563-589-4415

Need More Information?

Contact the City of Dubuque Planning Services Department:
50 West 13th St., Dubuque, IA 52001
Phone: (563) 589-4210
Email: planning@cityofdubuque.org