The City of Fennville planning and zoning department is responsible for ensuring that all buildings in the City are compliant with Michigan Building Code and for overseeing and implementing the city's zoning ordinances and regulations. This includes reviewing and approving building permits, site plans, and land use proposals to ensure they comply with zoning laws and regulations.
The zoning administrator works with property owners, developers, and architects to guide them through the zoning process, answer questions, and provide information about zoning requirements. They also conduct site visits to ensure that proposed developments or construction projects are in compliance with zoning regulations.
Additionally, the zoning administrator may be involved in conducting zoning studies, making recommendations for changes to zoning ordinances, and representing the city in zoning-related legal proceedings.
Overall, the zoning administrator plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the city's zoning regulations and ensuring that new developments align with the city's long-term planning goals.
The City contracts with Professional Code Inspectors (PCI) to provide building inspections and zoning administration.
For more information, see our Guide to Development, also embedded at the bottom of this page!
Prior to beginning any development process in the City, applicants are encouraged to meet with City staff for a pre-application review conference. This meeting can help promote a smooth approval process once a formal application is submitted. Depending on complexity of the project and availability, the City Administrator and/or Building & Zoning Administrator will attend the meeting.
In order to request a conceptual review meeting, please call the City Administrator at (269) 561-8321 or email at kbeemer@fennville.gov.
To make the best use of time during the conference, the following should ideally be known/available:
- Location
- Existing Use(s)
- Intended development (residential, retail, dining, etc.)
- Preliminary sketches (hand-drawn are sufficient)
- Surrounding land uses
During the meeting, applicants and staff will fill out a worksheet to have a written record of some basic project details, as well as record necessary follow-up questions. Find the worksheet here, or at the top of this page.
Any other additional information such as professional service providers, flood zone status, expected parking, and so forth are helpful but not required.
The land use master plan in Michigan is developed through a collaborative process involving input from community stakeholders, residents, and local government officials. It is intended to provide a framework for making decisions related to land use and development that align with the community's values and priorities.
The plan often includes maps and charts to illustrate the proposed land use designations, zoning regulations, and development patterns. It also addresses issues such as conservation of natural resources, preservation of open space, and promotion of sustainable development practices.
In accordance with the Planning Enabling Act, the City produces a master plan every 5 years. Our current master plan was adopted in November 2022 and will be in effect until November of 2027.
In Michigan, the land use master plan is typically a mandatory component of the planning and zoning process, and it serves as a foundation for the creation of zoning ordinances and other land use regulations. It's a key tool for managing growth, promoting economic vitality, and enhancing the overall quality of life in a community.
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