Planning & Zoning

Planning & Zoning Regulations

The City of Port Allen operates under established zoning laws to regulate land use and development.

Planning & Zoning Commission

  • Reviews requests related to:
    • Property use
    • New construction
    • Business location approvals
  • Makes recommendations to the City Council, which makes final decisions.

Meetings are held monthly at City Hall.

Zoning & Variances (Board of Adjustments)

If a project does not meet zoning requirements, such as setbacks, property owners may request a variance.

Variance Process Includes:

  • Submitting an application to City Hall
  • Paying applicable fees
  • Attending a public hearing
  • Receiving approval before construction begins

No construction may begin until:

  • Variance is approved (if needed)
  • Permit is issued

Members of the Planning and Zoning Commission

Ms. Liz Homes, Chairperson

Address: 938 Johnson Street
Port Allen, Louisiana 70767
Telephone: 225-338-1916
Term Expires: 12-31-2024

Mr. Walter Braud, III

Address: 431 Avenue D
Port Allen, Louisiana 70767
Telephone: 225-387-3360
Term Expires: 12-31-2022

Mr. Gregory Payne

Address: 717 Harry Brown Street
Port Allen, Louisiana 70767
Telephone: 225-588-1008
Term Expires: 12-31-2022

Mr. Gordie A. Pattan, III

Address: P.O. Box 912
Port Allen, Louisiana 70767
Telephone: 225-343-8059
Term Expires: 12-31-2025

Mr. Booker T. Washington, Jr.

Address: 808 Avenue A
Port Allen, Louisiana 70767
Telephone: 225-383-2335
Term Expires: 12-31-2023

Ms. Angela Trusclair-Moore, Commission Secretary

Address: 684 Burbridge Street
Port Allen, Louisiana 70767
Telephone: 225-343-1008

Mr. Kirby Anderson, Sr.

Address: 1120 Michigan Avenue
Port Allen, Louisiana 70767
Telephone: 225-4074
Term Expires: 12-31-2021

Ms. Reneé Dana

Address: 411 Seventh Street
Port Allen, Louisiana 70767
Telephone: 225-907-5191
Term Expires: 12-31-2026

Permits & Licenses

The City of Port Allen issues a variety of permits and licenses through City Hall and in coordination with West Baton Rouge Parish.

Common Permits Include:

  • Building Permits
  • Electrical Permits
  • Plumbing Permits
  • Business & Occupational Licenses
  • Alcohol Licenses

Permit fees vary depending on the scope and cost of the project. Applications are available through the City Hall Business Office.

Apply in person:
City Hall, 375 Court Street, Port Allen, LA
Phone: (225) 346-5670

Building & Construction Requirements

  • Permits are required before beginning any construction, renovation, or addition project.
  • Commercial and residential projects may require coordination with the West Baton Rouge Parish Permit Office.
  • All contractors must be properly licensed by the State of Louisiana and registered with the parish before applying for permits.
  • Work started without a permit may result in penalties or additional fees.

Business & Occupational Licensing

All businesses operating within the City of Port Allen must obtain:

  • A Business/Occupational License
  • A Certificate of Occupancy (for commercial locations)

To receive occupancy approval, businesses may be required to complete:

  • Zoning approval
  • Plan review
  • Fire Marshal inspection
  • Health Department approval (if applicable)

    Additional Permit Considerations

    Depending on the project, additional approvals may be required, including:

    • Driveway permits for state highways through Louisiana DOTD
    • Sign permits for commercial signage, subject to zoning regulations
    • Environmental or drainage considerations for certain developments

    Inspections & Compliance

    All permitted work is subject to inspection to ensure compliance with:

    • Building codes adopted by the State of Louisiana
    • Safety regulations
    • Local ordinances

    A 24-hour notice is typically required for inspections through the parish permit office.

    Contact Information

    For questions regarding permits, zoning, or applications:

    Important Reminder

    Failure to obtain the proper permits or approvals may result in:

    • Fines or penalties
    • Project delays
    • Required removal or modification of work

    The City encourages all residents and businesses to contact City Hall before beginning any project to ensure full compliance.

    Need Help?

    City staff are available to assist you through the permitting and approval process to help ensure your project is completed safely and efficiently.