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Advantages of form-based zoning account for its growing popularity
Published on October 24, 2012
Form-based zoning is starting to catch on with local governments in Michigan. There is a long list of advantages of form-based zoning. -
Do you require training for your zoning administrator? You should
Published on September 1, 2020
Zoning administrators are among the most important local officials – how well they do, or not do - their jobs have a great impact on the future of their communities. -
Document every step in zoning ordinance adoption
Published on November 28, 2016
It is important to document, in writing, every step when adopting or amending a zoning ordinance. Do not trust memory, or the ability to go back at a later date to find needed documentation. -
Do not be afraid to benchmark your zoning code
Published on August 28, 2013
One of the most important local regulatory documents that Michigan Communities control is their local zoning ordinance. This ordinance literally defines how land will be used and how uses affect and interact with other uses. -
Zoning to protect lakeshore areas? Do an assessment first
Published on December 20, 2013
Doing an assessment of the current resources and trends before developing standards is the best way to come up with practical, effective and enforceable regulations. -
Administration of zoning seldom results in property takings but claims are more frequent, Part 2
Published on December 19, 2013
Property takings are always something government regulators should be concerned about. But understanding how a takings claim is analyzed can help waylay fears. -
Form-based zoning becoming popular for its difference from conventional zoning
Published on October 17, 2012
Form-based zoning is starting to catch on with local governments in Michigan. There are key differences between form-based and conventional zoning which has led to its popularity. -
What is the status of my zoning board of appeals?
Published on December 31, 2013
For many rural townships in Michigan, the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) may see sparse and irregular action, often with a year or more between meetings. -
Common problems we observe in local zoning: Part 2
Published on October 22, 2015
MSU Extension land use specialists are often reading zoning from many different communities. Doing so shows us some common problems which should be corrected in zoning. -
Government planning coordination begins with review of master plans and zoning ordinances
Published on December 31, 2012
Government planning commissions have the job of reviewing proposed neighboring municipal master plans, county planning commissions review township zoning ordinances. -
Difference between a zoning ordinance and a master plan
Published on November 3, 2023
The zoning ordinance is a law with penalties and consequence for not following it. A master plan is a policy document that expresses intent. It is not an enforceable document and is not law. -
Planning commission is much more than zoning
Published on March 20, 2012
Planning commissions have a large job that includes coordination, intergovernmental cooperation, master plan, zoning administration, infrastructure, land division, subdivision reviews and capital improvement planning all contribute to a master plan. -
Planning commissions and zoning board of appeals required to have three year staggered terms
Published on December 19, 2016
Michigan statute requires three-year staggered terms of office. But many communities have gotten off that pattern. It is a problem that needs correcting. -
Caution: Zoning moratorium ahead
Published on April 8, 2020
Michigan local governments should proceed carefully when considering temporarily suspending property owners’ rights to develop or build until adequate regulations can be developed and adopted. -
Does zoning contribute to forest parcelization? – Part 1
Published on November 27, 2012
Michigan forestry professionals recently met to discuss current causes and research about forest fragmentation. Zoning is one of the factors that can influence this issue, both negatively and positively. -
Do not underfund a planning and zoning program
Published on March 29, 2016
Under budgeting for planning and zoning may result in a poorly run planning and zoning program which may do more harm than good. Cost savings can be realized by use of joint planning, sharing zoning administrator services, and other cooperative efforts. -
Code of conduct for planning commissioners and zoning board of appeals members
Published on November 7, 2019
Use of a code of conduct/oath of office is recommended for planning commissioner and zoning board of appeals members. It helps underscore a person’s role, expected behavior, and differences between elected officials and members of administrative bodies. -
The importance of discussing best practices for continuing education in planning and zoning
Published on December 16, 2019
Continuing education is an important strategy for local government risk management. Bylaws and local policy should also address how much training is appropriate and what topics training should focus on. -
Critical training for Zoning Board of Appeals members
Published on March 17, 2023
Acting properly, a community's Zoning Board of Appeals protects the interests of all parties and upholds due process, but when poorly trained, the board can be a serious legal risk to the community. -
Training, continuing education is best strategy for planning and zoning risk management
Published on December 16, 2019
Continuing education and training is an important planning and zoning risk management strategy for local governments in Michigan. While Michigan has many training opportunities, participation could be greater.