Downtown Housing Incentive Program

Eligibility Guidelines

Project Location & Type

• Create new multifamily housing units (rental or for-sale condos) within the Greater Downtown Urban Renewal District.
• Be a rehabilitation of an existing structure.
• Have clearly defined start and completion timelines.

Eligible Unit Types

• Newly Created Units: Created in a portion of a structure never previously used as housing.
• Rehabilitated Long-Vacant Units: A previously existing housing unit vacant for more than 3 years and undergoing full rehabilitation that corrects all code deficiencies and deterioration.

Rehabilitation Standards

• Bring the structure into full compliance with the 2021 IPMC and 2021 IBC.
• Correct all unsafe, unsanitary, damaged, or deteriorated conditions, including structural, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems.
• Repair or replace components that are defective or beyond service life; cosmetic-only improvements do not qualify.
• Meet all life-safety, egress, and habitability requirements.
• Use durable, long-term residential materials.
• Submit a comprehensive scope of work addressing all code corrections, subject to City approval.

Building Configuration

• Units must generally be located above a first-floor commercial component.

Design Review Requirements

• Reimbursement covers labor and materials that significantly improve appearance following City of Dubuque Architectural Guidelines or Downtown Design Guidelines, as applicable. Review the Design Guidelines
• Existing noncompliant signage must be brought into compliance as part of the project.
• A detailed rendering/drawing with dimensions, materials, and architectural details must be submitted.
• Deviation from the approved plan may disqualify the project.

Additional City Requirements

• City may require soundproofing, lighting, security, or other standards based on a neighborhood impact review.
• Property owners must certify that all properties they own in Dubuque comply with all applicable City ordinances.

Funding Limits

• Up to $10,000 per residential unit.
• Up to $750,000 per taxing parcel.
• No developer fee may be paid until all City assistance is fully disbursed.
• Funds are disbursed after project completion and issuance of all Certificates of Occupancy/Completion.

Minimum Project Size

• Projects must create at least 2 new housing units.

Application Review

• Applications are reviewed when complete.
• Funds are awarded to projects that meet all criteria and are ready to commence within 12 months.

Approval Process 

Applications will be reviewed by the Economic Development Department on a case-by-case basis with qualifying projects being submitted to the City Council for final review and approval.