The Neighborhood Beautification Program (NBP) seeks to invest funding in public outdoor spaces located in disadvantaged communities that typically see less investments in their neighborhoods. Investing in disproportionately impacted communities will help address the increased health disparities often experienced in low-income communities. Public space presents a timeless value that can enhance the spaces that define a community’s collective urban experience. NBP encourages community organizations to imagine how they can repurpose vacant lots to serve as community connectors that enrich and expand the live-work-play experience throughout the neighborhoods and city.
NBP has three eligible project areas: Clean-up Activities, Community Gardens, and Public Space Improvements.
Grant awards range from $500 to $15,000.
Click here to see if you are eligible and what you may need.
Read this to submit a successful application:
If you already own lots, check that they are zoned properly R1, R2, or R
COMMUNITY GARDENS
CLEAN-UP ACTIVITIES
Project related administrative costs (<10%), insurance, contractor or design fees
Plot plans are measured drawings of your property that show the location of existing and proposed features of your project.
They are used by the Buildings, Safety, Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED) to permit your project.
You should include the following:
Property lines
The length and width of your parcels
Locations of sidewalks, streets, and alleys
Existing features
Proposed features,
Features to be removed
Five-foot setbacks between your property lines and any garden features
Labels
For more information, click here
or contact us for help!
The application will open on September 2, 2025 and close on October 24, 2025.
Click here to see if you are eligible and what you may need.
Read this to submit a successful application:
The DLBA is partnering with the City of Detroit to offer temporary licenses to Block Clubs and Community Groups to conduct clean-up projects on DLBA owned lots. Lot Licenses will provide short-term access to DLBA owned lots for the duration of the clean-up activities.
To find available lots in your community group’s designated neighborhood, use the DLBA’s All Listings Map. Filter your search by “Neighborhood Lot” as seen in the image to the left. Please only apply
for lots within one mile of your organization. If you need assistance finding available lots in your area, please email inventorycap@detroitlandbank.org
Before applying for grant funding, please apply to license lots for clean up activities.
Plot plans are measured drawings of your property that show the location of existing and proposed features of your project.
They are used by the Buildings, Safety, Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED) to permit your project.
You should include the following:
Property lines
The length and width of your parcels
Locations of sidewalks, streets, and alleys
Existing features
Proposed features,
Features to be removed
Five-foot setbacks between your property lines and any garden features
Labels
For more information, click here
or contact us for help!
The application will open on September 2, 2025 and close on October 24, 2025.
Ashley Powell
ashley.powell@detroitmi.gov
313-654-6436
Karmel Reeves
karmel.reeves@detroitmi.gov
