New Bern, NC

Jeff Ruggieri Director of Development Services
Overgrown lot? Trash & debris left behind? Report it! For properties within city limits, call Nancy Johnston at (252)639-2944.

About Us 
Welcome to the City of New Bern's Department of Development Services. Our offices are located at 303 First Street.  Our primary focus is providing assistance to the community in developing plans, ordinances, implementing projects, and administering codes that produce orderly growth while maintaining community character and New Bern’s small town charm.

In response to COVID-19, the City is taking proactive measures to protect the health and well-being of our citizens and staff.  Effective 3/16/20, all City offices will be closed to the public until further notice.
At the Development Services offices a table has been placed in the foyer area  where all permits, plans and application packets can be dropped off along with payments (check only, no cash).   

The City of New Bern is required to adopt a Citizen Participation Plan that meets HUD's minimum requirements as set forth in the regulations for "Consolidated Submission for Community Planning and Development Programs" (24 CFR 91 Subpart B). The Citizen Participation Plan provides for and encourages citizens, organizations, businesses and other stakeholders to participate in the development of the Consolidated Plan, any substantial amendments to consolidated plan, and the annual performance report. This plan describes how the City of New Bern encourages and promotes participation through the establishment of policies and procedures for participation in the implementation of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).  Please click on the link below for more information:
Amended 2020 Community Development Block Grant Citizen Participation Plan 

Check out our Surplus City of New Bern Property website.

Citizen volunteers are important to this Department’s mission. Our staff provides support to four citizen boards: Planning and Zoning Board, Board of Adjustment, Historic Preservation Commission, and the Greater Duffyfield Residents Council. If you are interested in volunteering or have questions and comments, please contact Development Services.

Want to Serve?

Want to serve on a city board? Complete and submit this short form and a city representative will contact you when an opening occurs.