Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield says she wants to build one thousand new single-family homes in the city over the next four years. 

She also announced changes to the city's Building, Safety, Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED). BSEED will now offer same day permits for most home improvement projects and pre-approved designs for homes to accelerate construction. 

Mayor Sheffield says the changes should make it easier to rebuild the housing stock.

"We have heard our developers in Detroit, contractors and homeowners talk about the challenges that they face navigating the permitting process in our city," says Sheffield. "And when projects get delayed, we know that investment is delayed and our neighborhoods miss out on the growth that they deserve." 

Last week, Sheffield highlighted the city's down payment assistance program that provides up to $25,000 for first-time home buyers. BSEED’s new streamlined process removes some requirements that made the permitting process as long as 30 days for common renovations like replacing windows, roofing and siding. The city says most residential and small commercial renovation projects can be permitted the same day and will still be in compliance. 

-Reporting by Bre'Anna Tinsley

Additional headlines for Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Chand Raat Mela celebrations

Al Shahi Palace is hosting a Chand Raat Mela celebration today and tomorrow. The event celebrates the end of Ramadan and the coming Eid al-Fitr festivities. 

The venue will be offering food, drinks henna and other vendors from noon until midnight. Al Shahi is located at 4235 12 Mile Road in Warren. For more information, call 313-445-3623.  

The South Asians of Michigan Alliance will host its Chaand Raat & Eid Mela event Thursday at the Radisson Hotel in Southfield. It also starts at noon and runs until midnight. There will be a variety of vendors, a food truck and an awards ceremony. The Radisson is at 26555 Telegraph Road.

Dearborn Economic Development hosts branding workshop

The Dearborn Economic Development Department is hosting a branding workshop for businesses at the Henry Ford Centennial Library this month. Brand Magnetism! Storytelling That Pulls People In is from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24.

Founder of 3 Feet Media LLC Bryce the Third will facilitate. The Henry Ford Centennial Library is at 16301 Michigan Avenue. To register go to Dearborn.gov/BusinessResources