General Information
Phone Numbers
302-378-1171
Fax: 302-378-5675
Emergencies: Dial 911
Location
19 W. Green Street
Middletown,
DE
19709

Hours
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (in person)
Calls taken until 4:30 p.m.

Business License & Building Inspections

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Welcome to the Business Licensing and Building Inspections Department

RENTALS

Q: What is the soonest time I can re-schedule a rental reinspection? 

A: A rental reinspection can be scheduled as soon as the next business day, if requested between 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM the prior business day. 

Q: Why do I have to re-register my rental property if I already did it, and why multiple inspections? 

A: Rental properties must be re-registered every 3 years to ensure accurate records. A new inspection is also required each time a new tenant moves in. 

Q: Is there a charge for rental registration? 

A: No. However, rental inspections do have fees. The first inspection is $75; the second (reinspection) is free. Any additional inspections are $75 each. 

Q: Can tenants put utilities in their own names? 

A: Electric service can be transferred to tenants only after a passed rental inspection. Water and sewer accounts must remain in the owner’s name, though owners may forward bills to tenants. 

Q: If I own multiple rentals in town, do I need a business license? 

A: Yes. Owning and operating two or more rental properties in Middletown requires an active Town business license. 

COMMERCIAL PERMITS 

Q: When do I need a commercial permit? 

A: A permit is required for any change of occupancy (moving into a new space), commonly called a Tenant Fit Out, even if no construction work is performed. Any structural work not listed as exempt also requires a permit. 

Q: If I’m not doing any construction and just moving into an existing space, do I need a permit? 

A: Yes. All businesses moving into a commercial space must complete the tenant fit out process to operate legally and obtain a business license. 

Q: Do plans need to be submitted with my application? 

 A: Yes. Drawings must show compliance with codes. These may be simple or complex depending on the scope of work. Even if you’re just moving in, a layout showing how you intend to occupy the space is required. 

Q: Do plans need to be sealed by an architect or engineer? 

A: Minor projects not involving new rooms may be drawn without a seal. Engineering drawings should be sealed by an engineer, and all other plans must be sealed by a Delaware-licensed architect. 


Complaints & Code Enforcement

Q: Can I submit an anonymous complaint?

A: No. Your name and contact information are required when submitting a complaint. This ensures staff can follow up, request more details if needed, and keep you informed. 

Q: How do I file a grass/weed complaint?

A: Complete a complaint form online or in person at the Permits & Inspections Department. A notice will be mailed and posted on the property, requiring correction within 7 days. If not corrected, the Town may remedy the violation and charge costs to the owner. 

Q: How do I report an abandoned vehicle?

A: For vehicles on public property, contact the Middletown Police Department. For vehicles on private property, file a complaint with the Town using the complaint form. 

Q: Does the Town of Middletown enforce HOA rules and guidelines?

A: No. The Town does not enforce HOA rules or covenants. 

Q: Why was the traffic light at Lake Street and Broad Street removed, and will it be replaced?

A: The decision was made by DelDOT. Please contact DelDOT directly for more information. 

Business Licenses

Q: Can I renew my business license for more than one year? 

A: No. Business licenses are renewed one year at a time. 

Q: Do all contractors and subcontractors need to be licensed? If I have a State or County license, is that enough? 

A: All contractors and subcontractors must have a valid Town of Middletown business license to work within Town limits. 

Q: If I own multiple rental properties, do I need a business license?

A: Yes. Owning and operating two or more rental properties requires a Town of Middletown business license. 

Permits & Plan Review

Q: Do you inspect the electrical work?

A: No. All electrical work must be inspected by a third-party agency. 

Q: Do I need a footer for my deck steps?

A: Yes. Section R507.3.4 of the IRC requires footings for deck steps when they rise 30" or more. 

Q: Do I need a framing inspection on decks higher than 30”?

A: Yes. All decks require a framing inspection, regardless of height. 

Q: How long is my permit valid, and can I extend it?

A: Permits are valid for one year after approval. Extensions are valid for 180 days, but must be formally applied for. 

Q: Do we need to provide contractor information before submitting a building permit?

A: Yes. Applications should be complete, including contractor details. Incomplete applications delay the process. 

Q: Do plumbing and HVAC contractors need to be licensed with The Town of Middletown before obtaining a building permit?

A: Yes. All contractors must be licensed and submit signed applications. A valid Town of Middletown business license is required, along with the applicable Delaware professional license. 

Q: What is the procedure for changing contractors during the permit process?

A: The original applicant/permit holder remains legally responsible until they vacate the permit and the new contractor is formally added. 

Q: Do I need a permit when building or placing a dog house?

A: No. A permit is not required for a dog house as long as it is not over 200 sq. ft.