Economic Development Division – Hartford, CT

Hartford Development Services

Business and Community Growth

The Economic Development Division, operating under the Department of Development Services, is the City of Hartford’s primary arm for fostering business growth and managing physical development. Located at 260 Constitution Plaza, this division is distinct from the main City Hall, housing the teams responsible for Planning and Zoning, Building Inspections, and Licensing. The office serves as a one-stop resource for developers, small business owners, and residents seeking permits. Key functions include reviewing site plans for new construction, issuing trade permits (electrical, plumbing, mechanical), and managing tax abatement programs designed to attract investment to the capital city.

• Permitting: Central hub for building permits, certificates of occupancy, and zoning compliance.
• Business Services: Assistance with municipal licensing and small business resources.
• Blight Remediation: Enforces codes to maintain neighborhood standards and safety.

Visiting Constitution Plaza

The Department of Development Services is located on the 1st floor of 260 Constitution Plaza, a modern office complex in the downtown area. Visitors typically need to sign in at the security desk. While some services like simple record retrieval may be available for walk-ins, appointments are strongly recommended for meetings with plan reviewers or zoning officers. The plaza is accessible via the elevated walkway system or from street level. Paid parking is available in the Constitution Plaza garage, and the location is well-connected to downtown bus routes.