Planning

View information by type

Enrollment now open: Popular MSU Extension course Introduction to Lakes Online offered January 2025

Published on September 20, 2024
Register today for this unique opportunity to learn about inland lakes.
Community discussions around housing: Tax increment financing (TIF) for housing

Published on August 13, 2024
The Brownfield Redevelopment Finance Act now allows for TIF to be used for qualified housing projects.
Citizen education resources support voices of residents

Published on August 12, 2024
MSU Extension citizen education resources are helpful tools to inform community residents on the nature of local government planning and zoning decisions.
Climate and health adaptation planning technical assistance available to Michigan communities

Published on August 1, 2024
Learn more about the opportunity to participate in a community engagement process for the development of a consensus vision, planning recommendations, and designs to guide adaptations addressing climate impacts on public health.
Registration now open for the 2025 Zoning Administrator Certificate Program in Mt. Pleasant

Published on June 17, 2024
Since 2009, the MSU Extension Zoning Administrator Certificate Program has served as Michigan's only zoning administration program focused on techniques that reduce legal risks to the zoning administrator and their community.
Zoning related to adult foster care (AFC) homes

Published on December 15, 2023
Zoning for adult foster care facilities requires a detailed review of state residential facility licensing types, similar dwelling types, density, and zoning districts.
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.
Why care about planning and zoning?

Published on September 15, 2023
Being involved in planning and zoning is a great way to help shape the future of your community.
Zoning and police power ordinances are not the same, and should not be mixed together

Published on September 15, 2023
There are three types of ordinances local government might adopt. Important to focus on the difference between police power ordinances and zoning ordinances.
Overlay zoning districts can be a valuable tool

Published on September 15, 2023
Overlay zoning districts is a valid tool in some conditions. But be careful not to overuse it when more traditional zoning techniques can do the job.