Boards & Commissions

Boards and commissions play an important role in governing the City of Dubuque. Membership is not to be taken lightly but should be considered as a contribution to maintaining and improving the quality of life in the community. These advisory groups can be valuable community assets and effective partners with the City Council and City staff in guiding the future of the community.

The satisfaction of serving in a volunteer capacity as a member of a public board or commission is a personal achievement and provides a sound basis for further public service. Such service also lays the foundation for being effective citizens after membership on such boards and commissions has ceased.

View more information on applying for membership.

The following Boards and Commissions are staffed by the Planning Services Department:


Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)

A nine member commission appointed by the City Council who have expertise or interest in Architecture, History, Archaeology, Law, Construction or Building Rehabilitation, City Planning or Conservation in General. (read on...)

Long Range Planning Advisory Commission (LRPAC)

A seven member commission appointed by the City Council who provide a leadership role in the planning, coordinating and sponsoring of a periodic community planning process. (read on...)

Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA)

A five member quasi-judicial board appointed by the City Council who reviews applications regarding criteria for granting of special exceptions, conditional use permits, variance and appeals. (read on...) 

Zoning Advisory Commission (ZAC)

A seven member commission appointed by the City Council who make recommendations to the City Council on applications for rezoning, subdivision plat approval, and text amendments to the Unified Development Code. (read on...)

All Zoning Advisory Commission meetings are aired live on CityChannel 8.  To view archived meetings, visit the media page on our website.