Zoning is governmental regulation of the use of land. The purpose of zoning is to function as a tool to implement a community’s master plan; ensure the compatibility of land uses, protect natural resources and protect property values. Zoning involves adopting an ordinance that divides the community into various districts or zones. Zoning specifies the permitted land use, such as residential, commercial or industrial, within each zone.

Both general law and charter townships may adopt zoning ordinances, pursuant to zoning enabling statute.

Until July 1, 2006, the provisions of the Township Zoning Act, Public Act 184 of 1943 (MCL 125.271, et seq) applied.

On July 1, 2006, the new Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, Public Act 110 of 2006 (MCL 125.3101, et seq), repealed the Township Zoning Act and became the zoning enabling statute for township zoning.

The 2006 Michigan Zoning Enabling Act Packet for General Law Townships (.pdf) includes updated zoning ordinance checklists.

The 2006 Michigan Zoning Enabling Act Packet for Charter Townships (.pdf) includes updated zoning ordinance checklists.

Zoning Ordinance Referendum Timeline Chart (.pdf)

Zoning Ordinance Open Space Preservation Provisions (.pdf)

The zoning ordinance contains land development regulations and establishes land development districts. The zoning ordinance is adopted to protect the public health, safety and general welfare. Typical zoning regulations address the physical development of the township through such elements as land use, building height, bulk, lot area, setbacks, parking, signs and density.

More Township Zoning Resources