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COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PREAMBLE

ARTICLE 1.0 - PURPOSE & GENERAL PROVISIONS

1.01 – Purpose

1.02 – Scope

1.03 – Control

1.04 – Uses Not Listed

1.05 – Official Zoning Map

1.06 – Replacement of Official Zoning Map

1.07 – Interpretation of District Boundary Lines

ARTICLE 2.0 - NONCONFORMING LOTS, STRUCTURES, & USES  REGULATIONS COVERING ALL DISTRICTS

2.01 – Intent

2.02 – Uses of Non-conforming Land, Buildings & Structures

2.03 – Reconstruction of Damaged Non-Conform. Buildings & Structures

2.04 - Repair, Alteration & Completion of Non-conforming Buildings

2.05 – Nonconforming Lots of Record

2.06 – Structures within a Flood Hazard Area

ARTICLE 3.0 - SCHEDULE OF DISTRICT REGULATIONS

3.01 – District R1 (Residential)

Intent

Area and Dimensional Regulations

Principal Permitted Uses

Permitted Accessory Uses

Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit

3.02 – District R2 (Residential – Resort)

Intent

Area and Dimensional Regulations

Principal Permitted Uses

Permitted Accessory Uses

Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit

3.03 – District RO (Residential – Old Plats)

Intent

Area and Dimensional Regulations

Principal Permitted Uses

Permitted Accessory Uses

Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit

3.04 - District A (Agricultural)

Parcels 10 Acres or Greater (Agricultural Use)

Area and Dimensional Regulations

Principal Permitted Uses

Permitted Accessory Uses

Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit

Parcels Under 10 Acres (Residential Uses)

1. Area and Dimensional Regulations

2. Principal Permitted Uses

3. Permitted Accessory Uses

4. Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit

3.04 – [RESERVED]

3.05 – District C (Commercial)

A. Intent

B. Area and Dimensional Regulations

C. Principal Permitted Uses

D. Permitted Accessory Uses

E. Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit

3.06 – District I (Industrial)

A. Intent

B. Area and Dimensional Regulations

C. Principal Permitted Uses

D. Permitted Accessory Uses

E. Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit

3.07 – District RMH (Residential Mobile Home)

A. Intent

B. Principal Permitted Uses

Standards and Requirements for Mobile Home Parks

Site Plan Approval – Preliminary

Area and Dimensional Regulations

ARTICLE 4.0 - GENERAL PROVISIONS

4.01 – Conflicting Laws, Ordinance, Regulations, and Restrictions

4.02 – Minimum Lot Area and Dimensions

4.03 – Minimum Front, Side and Rear Setbacks on All Lots

A. Front Yards

1. Highway and primary road setback

2. Plat setbacks

3. Average setbacks

B. Side Yards

1. General rules

2. Districts C and I special rules

Rear Yards

Lake Front Yards

Wetlands setbacks

4.04 – Buildings and Structures Relative to Setback Lines

Accessory Structures in Street Front Yards

Waterfront Lots – Exceptions

Waterfront Lots – Additional Requirements

4.05 – Water Supply and Sewage Disposal Facilities

4.06 – Dwellings for Use of Seasonal Farm Labor

4.07 – Essential Services

4.08 – Temporary Dwelling Structures

4.09 – Vehicular Parking Space, Access thereto, and Lighting thereof

4.10 – Minimum Dwelling Unit Regulations

A. Application for Permits

B. Minimum Dwelling Size

A. Used Mobile Homes

B. Plot Plan

C. Foundations

D. Porches and Steps

E. Mobile Home Skirting

F. Occupancy

G. Maintenance

H. Mobile Homes in Mobile Home Parks

4.11 – Site Plan Review and Approval

A. Intent

B. When Required

C. Contents

D. Review Process and Approval

E. Site Change

F. Phased Construction

G. Expiration

4.12 – Special Use Procedures

A. Application

B. Public Notice

C. Special Use Review Requirements

4.13 - Special Uses and Conditions

A. Automobile Repair Shops and Impound Yards

B. Billboards

C. Campgrounds, Seasonal Mobile Home Parks and Recreational Vehicle (RV) Parks

D. Churches, Private Schools, Libraries, Museums and Community Halls

E. Fraternal Organizations

F. Accessory Building on a Vacant Lot

G. Reserved

H. Hospitals, Clinics, Sanitariums, Convalescent Homes, State Licensed Residential Care Facilities for More than 6 Persons and Similar Structures Designed for Human Care.

I. Manufacturing, Compounding, Processing, Packaging, Treating, Assembly and Bulk Storage of Certain Products.

J. Multiple Family Dwellings (three or more units)

K. Parks, Playgrounds and Recreational Areas

L. Petroleum Refining, Petroleum, Gas, and LP Gas Storage, Paving Materials and Roofing Materials

M. Race Tracks (Including Midget Auto, Karting, Horse, and Snow Mobile)

Attached Dwelling

Outdoor Storage Facilities

Warehouse and Mini-storage Facilities (indoor storage)

Seasonal Storage in Existing Barns

4.14 - Planned Unit Developments

Intent and Purpose

Planned Unit Development

Site eligibility

Combination of uses permitted

Density and open space requirements

Residential Density Bonuses

Pre-application Conference for Concept Review

Standards and Considerations

Ownership

Utilities

Permitted Residential Housing Types and Uses

Site Plan Review Standards

Facility Site Standards

Common Property which is Privately Owned

Public Easements on Common Property

Revisions after final approval

Public Hearing

Final Approval

4.15 - Condominium Subdivisions & Site Condominiums

Condominium Use Compliance

Change of Use

Review and Approval of Condominium Developments

Initial information

Information to be kept current

Site plans for new projects

Site plans for expandable or convertible projects

Master deed, restrictive covenants and "As-built" survey to be furnished

Monuments required

Compliance with federal, state and local laws

Floodplains

Temporary Occupancy

Single-family Detached Condominiums

Conformance to residential zoning

Conformance to engineering design standards

Private Roads

Final Documents to be Provided

4.16 - Private Roads

Definitions

Private Drives

Private Roads

Accessible

General Provisions

1. Building permit may be issued

2. Pre-existing private drives and roads

3. Expansion of pre-existing private drives and roads

4. Maintenance and Repair

Minimum Standards for Private Drives and Private Roads

1. Private road standards

2. Private drive standards

3. Design standards

D. Exceptions and Application

ARTICLE 5.0 – ADMINISTRATION

5.01 – Zoning Administrator

5.02 – Certificates of Approval

5.03 – Certificate of Compliance

ARTICLE 6.0 - BOARD OF APPEALS

6.01 – Board of Appeals: Establishment and Procedure

Establishment

Terms of Office

Quorum

Adoption of Rules

Minutes

6.02 – Board of Appeals: Powers and Duties

Reference to Public Act 110 of 2006

Powers: Concurring Vote of Majority; Standards for Decisions

6.03 – Duties of Zoning Administrator, Board of Appeals, Township Board, and Courts on Matters of Appeal

Jurisdiction of Zoning Board of Appeals

B. Limitations of Township Board Authority

ARTICLE 7.0 – DEFINITIONS

7.01 – Rules Applying to Text

7.02 – ‘A’

Accessory Use of Structure

Agricultural

Alteration, structural

Animal Unit

Automobile repair - major

Automobile repair – minor

Automobile wash establishment

7.03 – ‘B’

Basement

Bed & Breakfast Inn

Billboards & signs

Boarding, lodging & rooming house

Building

Building height

Building, Main or Principal

Building Inspector

Building Line

Building Permit

Building Setback

7.04 – ‘C’

Clinic

Condominium

Construction

Convalescent or Nursing Home

7.05 – ‘D’

Day Care Facility

Dwelling – Multiple Family

Dwelling – Single Family Attached

Dwelling – Single Family Detached

Dwelling – Two (2) Family

Dwelling – Underground

Dwelling or Dwelling Unit

7.06 – ‘E’

Efficiency Unit (Studio)

Essential Public Services

7.07 – ‘F’

Family

Farm

Floor Area

7.08 – ‘G’

Garage – Automotive Commercial

Garage – Private

Garage – Public

Grade

Greenbelt or Buffer Strip

7.09 – ‘H’

Hazardous Materials

Hobby Farm

Home Occupation

7.10 – ‘I’

Intensive Livestock Operation

7.11 – ‘J’

Junk

Junkyard

7.12 – ‘K’

Kennel

7.13 – ‘L’

Litter

Livestock

Loading Berth

Lot

Lot - Area

Lot – Corner

Lot – Coverage

Lot – Flag

Lot – Line

Lot Line - Front

Lot Line – Rear

Lot Line – Side

Lot of Record

Lot Width

7.14 – ‘M’

Mobile Home

Mobile Home Park

Mobile Home Subdivision

Modular

Motel, Hotel, or Motor Hotel

Motor Home

Motor Vehicle

7.15 – ‘N’

Non-Conforming Lot of Record (Substandard Lot)

Non-Conforming Structure

Non-Conforming Use

7.16 – ‘O’

Open Air Business

7.17 – ‘P’

Parking Area, Space or Lot

Pier

Planning Commission

Principal or Main Use

7.18 – ‘Q’

7.19 – ‘R’

Recreation Vehicles

Road Frontage

Road or Street – Private

Road or Street – Public

Roadside Market Stand

7.20 – ‘S’

Sanitary Landfill

Shopping Center

Site Plan Review and Approval

Special Use Permit

Street

Structure

Structural Changes or Alterations

Swimming Pool

7.21 – ‘T’

Temporary Building or Use

Townhouses

Township Board

Township Board of Appeals

Township

Trash

Trailer Coach Park Act

Travel Trailer

7.22 – ‘U’

Underground Home

7.23 – ‘V’

Variance

Vehicle

7.24 – ‘W’

7.25 – ‘X’

7.26 – ‘Y’

Yard – Required Side-Rear-Front

7.27 – ‘Z’

Zoning Act

Zoning Inspector

ARTICLE 8.0 - AMENDMENTS AND PUBLIC NOTICES

8.01 - Initiation of Amendments

8.02 – Procedure

Filing of Applications

Contents

Public Hearing

County Review

Township Board Review

Optional Public Hearing

Township Board Action

Adoption and Publication

8.03 – Public Notices

For Commission, Board and Zoning Board Meetings

Additional Public Notices

Notice of Hearing

8.04 - Conditional Rezoning

Intent

Application and Offer of Conditions

Planning Commission Review

Township Board Review

Approval

Compliance with Conditions

Time Period for Establishing Development or Use

Reversion of Zoning

Subsequent Rezoning of Land

Amendment of Conditions

Township Right to Rezone

Failure to Offer Conditions

ARTICLE 9.0 – PENALTIES

9.01 – Penalties

9.02 – Action

ARTICLE 10.0 – VALIDITY

 

ZONING ORDINANCE

COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP, VAN BUREN COUNTY, MICHIGAN

AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING COMPREHENSIVE ZONING REGULATIONS FOR THE TOWNSHIP OF COLUMBIA, AND PROVIDING FOR THE ADMINISTRATION, ENFORCEMENT, AND AMENDMENT THEREOF IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE TOWNSHIP RURAL ZONING ACT OF 1943, AS AMENDED, AND PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS HEREOF.

WHEREAS, Act 184, of the Public Acts of 1943, as amended, empowers the Township Board to enact a Zoning Ordinance and to provide for its administration, enforcement, and amendment; and

WHEREAS, the Township Board of Columbia Township deems it necessary for the purpose of promoting the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare, of the Township to enact such an Ordinance; and

WHEREAS, the Township Board, pursuant to the provisions of Act 168, of the Public Acts of 1959, as amended, has appointed a Planning Commission to study and recommend the boundaries of the various zoning districts and appropriate regulations to be enforced therein; and

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has divided the Township of Columbia into districts, and has prepared regulations pertaining to such districts, in accordance with a basic plan, which is designed to lessen congestion in the streets; to secure safety from fire, panic, and other dangers; to promote the public health and general welfare; to provide adequate light and air; to prevent the overcrowding of land, to avoid undue concentration of population; and to facilitate the adequate provision of transportation, water, sewage disposal facilities, schools, parks, and other public improvements; and

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has given reasonable consideration to the character of the districts and their peculiar suitability for particular uses with a view to conserving the value of buildings and encouraging the most appropriate use of land throughout the Township; and

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission, in an effort to simplify interpretation of its Ordinance and update its Land Use Ordinance based upon a convenient development plan submitted in November 1982 by Leslie R. Cripps and Associates; and

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has submitted its findings and recommendations to the Township Board;

"Editor’s Note: Public Act 184 of 1943, the Township Zoning Act has been rescinded by the legislature and in its place the legislature adopted Public Act 110 of 2006, the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act."

ARTICLE 1.0 – PURPOSE & GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1.01 - Purpose

The Zoning Districts established by this Ordinance and the regulations specified for each district have been developed according to the continuing formulation of a Comprehensive Master Plan for the physical development of Columbia Township as a part of Van Buren County. In their application and interpretation the provisions of this Ordinance will be considered minimum requirements adopted to promote the public safety, health, morals, and general welfare. Among other purposes, these provisions are designed to:

Conserve and protect lands, waters, and other natural resources for their most suitable purposes;

Maintain the rural character of the township;

Protect productive agricultural lands for agricultural use;

Reduce hazards to life and property from flooding, soil erosion, and air and water pollution;

Secure safety from fire and other dangers which result from unguided community development;

Avoid undue concentration of population by regulating and limiting the density of development and use of land;

Ensure compatibility among land uses;

Restrict the expansion and longevity of nonconforming uses and structures;

Lessen congestion on the public highways and streets;

Facilitate the economical provision of adequate streets and highways, educational and recreational facilities, sewage, drainage, and water supply systems while avoiding the installation of such utility services to illogical locations;

Enhance the social and economic stability of Columbia Township;

Provide opportunity for the use of land in a manner which permits a reasonable economic return;

Implement the goals and objectives of the Columbia Township Comprehensive (Master) Plan;

Coordinate development standards with those of adjoining communities;

Provide opportunity for the proper use of creative land development techniques, such as planned unit development; and,

Foster a quality of life consistent with the desires of the township.

Section 1.02 - Scope

This Ordinance does not intend to repeal, abrogate, annul, or interfere with existing provisions of other laws or ordinances, except those specifically repealed by this Ordinance, or with any private restrictions placed upon property by covenant, deed, or other private agreement unless contrary to the provisions hereto.

Section 1.03 - Control

Where this Ordinance imposes a greater restriction than is imposed or required by other rules, regulations, or private restrictions, the provisions of this Ordinance shall control.

Section 1.04 – Uses Not Listed

A land use that is not listed as either a permitted use or a special use shall be prohibited.

Section 1.05 – Official Zoning Map

A. For the purpose of this Ordinance all of the Columbia Township area of Van Buren County is hereby divided into five kinds of zoning districts to be known as District R1 (Residential), District R2 (Residential – Resort), District A (Agricultural), District C (Commercial), and District I (Industrial).

B. The description of unincorporated areas of Columbia Township as set in this Ordinance shall constitute the areas included in each zoning district.

C. The official zoning map shall be identified by the signature of the Township Supervisor attested by the Township Clerk, and shall bear the seal of the Township under the following words: "This is to certify that this is the official zoning map referred to in the Columbia Township Zoning Ordinance together with the effective date of the Ordinance.

D. If, in accordance with the provisions of this Ordinance, changes are made in zoning district boundaries or other matter portrayed on the official zoning map, such changes shall be entered on the official zoning map within 10 days after the amendment has been approved the Township Board, with an entry on the official zoning map as follows: "On (date), by official action of the Township Board, the following change (s) was (were) made in the official zoning map: (brief description of change)," which entry shall be signed by the Township Supervisor and attested by the Township Clerk.

E. No changes of any nature shall be made in the official zoning map or matter shown thereon except in conformity with the procedures set forth in this Ordinance. Any unauthorized change of whatever kind by any person or persons shall be considered a violation of this Ordinance.

F. The location of zoning districts in Columbia Township shall be shown on a map entitled Zoning Map of Columbia Township. This map and all information and proper notations shown thereon are hereby made a part of this Ordinance. The zoning map shall be located in the office of the Township.

Section 1.06 – Replacement of Official Zoning Map

A. In the event that the official zoning map becomes damaged, destroyed, lost, or

difficult to interpret because of the nature or number of changes and additions, the Township Board may by resolution, adopt a new official zoning map that shall supersede the prior official zoning map. The new official zoning map shall be identified by the signature of the Township Supervisor attested by the Township Clerk, and shall bear the seal of the Township under the following words: "This is to certify that this official zoning map supersedes and replaces the official zoning map adopted (date of adoption of map being replaced) as part of Zoning Ordinance No. 87-1 of the Township of Columbia, Van Buren County, Michigan."

B. Unless the prior official zoning map has been lost or totally destroyed, the prior map,

or any significant parts thereof remaining, shall be preserved together with all available records pertaining to its adoption or amendment.

Section 1.07 – Interpretation of District Boundary Lines

Unless otherwise provided in the text as part of this Ordinance, the boundary lines of all zoning districts shall be interpreted as following along section lines or the customary divisions of section such as quarter and eighth lines; or the center line of highways, streets, and waterways; or the shoreline of water bodies; or the boundaries of unincorporated areas, recorded plats or subdivisions; or property lines of legal recordings on the date of enactment of this Ordinance, or any extension of said lines.

ARTICLE 2.0 – NONCONFORMING LOTS, STRUCTURES, AND USES REGULATIONS COVERING ALL DISTRICTS

Section 2.01 – Intent

If when there exists land, structures, and uses of land and structures which were lawfully established or constructed at the time of their establishment or construction, but which would be prohibited, regulated, or restricted under the terms of this Ordinance of future amendment thereto; it is the intent of this Ordinance to permit such lawful nonconformance’s to continue until they are removed but not to encourage their continuation, and such lawful non-conformances may be fully replaced on the same footprint unless the structure extends across a property line, easement or right-of-way line and the affected property cannot be purchased. In such cases the nonconforming structure may be replaced by a similar structure having a volume and footprint no greater than the original structure. It is further the intent of this Ordinance that lawful nonconformance’s are discouraged from enlargement, expansion or extension. Such non-conforming uses, however, may be continued, including the construction of dwellings on lots of record as in existence prior to the date of this Ordinance. In such cases, side set-backs shall be at least five (5) feet in width from the building line on each side of the lot if the lot is fifty (50) feet in width, with one foot additional width of side yard, on each side, being required for each additional ten (10) feet of lot width up to 100 feet wide lots.

To avoid undue hardship, nothing in this Ordinance shall be deemed to require a change in the plans, construction, or designated use of any building on which actual construction has lawfully begun prior to the effective date of addition or amendment of this Ordinance, and upon which actual construction has been carried on diligently. Actual construction is hereby defined to include the placing of construction materials in a permanent position and fastened in a permanent manner. Where excavation, demolition, or removal of an existing building has been substantially begun preparatory to rebuilding, such excavation, demolition, or removal shall be deemed to be actual construction, provided that work shall be carried on diligently.

Section 2.02 – Uses of Non-conforming Land, Buildings and Structures

At the discretion of the owner, the lawful use of any building, structure or premises existing prior to the effective date of this Ordinance may be continued, although the use does not conform to the provisions of this Ordinance, and such use may be extended throughout said building and premises.

Whenever the non-conforming use of any building, structure, land or premises or part thereof is discontinued through vacancy, lack of operations or otherwise for a continuous period of twelve (12) months, then any further use shall cease unless said building, structure, land or premises shall conform, in its entirety, to the provisions of this Ordinance, provided, however, that the Board of Appeals upon reasonable grounds, may upon application within six (6) months of the termination of said period, permit the resumption of such non-conformed use.

Section 2.03 – Reconstruction of Damaged Non-Conforming Buildings and Structures

A. Except for structures within a flood hazard area (see 2.06), nothing in this Ordinance shall prevent the reconstruction, repair or restoration and the continued use of any non-conforming building or structure damaged by fire, collapse, explosion, act of God, or acts of the public enemy, subsequent to the effective date of this Ordinance, if such reconstruction or restoration is undertaken within one (1) year and diligently prosecuted to completion; provided, that said use be identical with non-conforming use permitted in effect at the time of said damage, and provided, further that such reconstruction may maintain the previously existing footprint unless there is encroachment upon and adjacent parcel, easement or right-of-way. If there was encroachment then the replacement structure shall conform to highway setback and yard requirements of the district wherever physically practical.

Section 2.04 – Repair, Alteration and Completion of Non-Conforming Buildings

A. Nothing in this Ordinance shall prevent the expansion, repair, reinforcement, improvement, replacement or rehabilitation of a non-conforming building, structure or part thereof existing at the effective date of this Ordinance that may be necessary to secure or insure the non-conforming use of the building, premises, or structure provided no additional nonconformance’s are created.

B. No basement, cellar, garage, or any incompletely constructed structure in use as a dwelling on the effective date of this Ordinance shall be used as a dwelling fore more than two (2) years following said date. The Board of Appeals may upon conditions and proofs it feels are just, grant a one (1) year extension.

C. Unless otherwise provided in the text as part of this Ordinance, the boundary lines of all zoning districts shall be interpreted as following along section lines or the customary divisions of section such as quarter and eighth lines; or the center line of highways, streets, and waterways; or the shoreline of water bodies; or the boundaries of unincorporated areas, recorded plats or subdivisions; or property lines of legal recordings on the date of enactment of this Ordinance, or any extension of said lines.

C. Limitations on all dwellings.

Beyond the exceptions listed above, Aall repairs, alterations or additions to non-conforming dwellings shall conform to Section 4.10 of this Zoning Ordinance and the Michigan Building Code, as amended.

Section 2.05 - Nonconforming lots of record.

The construction of dwellings on lots of record in existence prior to the date of this Ordinance is permitted so long as the property has not come into common ownership with an adjacent parcel. In such cases, except as otherwise provided in Section 3.03, side set-backs shall be at least five (5) feet in width from the building line on each side of the lot if the lot is fifty (50) feet in width, with one foot additional width of side yard, on each side, being required for each additional ten (10) feet of lot width up to 100 feet wide lots.

Section 2.06 - Structures within a Flood Hazard Area.

For all structures within a Flood Hazard Area, any repair, reconstruction or improvement of such structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50% of the assessor’s valuation of the structure, and all additions to the structure shall comply with the following standards:

A. All new construction, replacement, additions or improvements of residential structures shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated to at least one (1) foot above base flood level.

B. All new construction, replacement, additions or improvements to non-residential structures shall have either:

1. The lowest floor, including basement, elevated to at least one (1) foot above base flood elevation, or

2. Be constructed such that, below the base flood level, together with utility and sanitary facilities, the structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water and the structural component having the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads in full compliance with the Michigan Building Code.

ARTICLE 3.0 – SCHEDULE OF DISTRICT REGULATIONS

Section 3.01 District R1 (Residential)

A. Intent:

To establish and preserve single-family home districts as desired by substantial numbers of residents, which are free from other uses except those which are both compatible with and for the convenience of the residents of such districts; to maintain the character and integrity of existing residential areas which are comprised predominantly of conventionally-built single-family dwellings; and to provide protection against contamination of soil and surface and ground water by effluent from septic tank sewage disposal systems by requiring adequately large lot sizes in areas not serviced by public sanitary sewer systems.

No land shall be used hereafter, and no buildings or structure erected or moved upon any premises and used for other than one or more of the following uses, except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance.

B. Area and Dimensional Regulations

1. Minimum Lot Area and Frontage Width: 12,000 square feet lot area; 100 feet frontage width, except as permitted in 4.02.

2. Minimum Yard Dimensions: Must meet the requirements of Sections 4.02 and 4.03 or 2.05.

3. Maximum Building Height: Two and one-half (2-1/2) stories or thirty-five (35) feet.

C. Principal permitted uses:

No land shall be used hereafter, and no buildings or structure erected or moved upon any premises and used for other than one or more of the following uses, except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance.

1. Detached conventionally built single-family dwellings.

2. Detached pre-manufactured modular single-family dwellings that meet or exceed the requirements and specifications of the rules of the Michigan Construction Code Commission promulgated pursuant to Section 6 of the State Construction Code Act (Act 230, of the Public Acts of 1972, as amended.).

Single-family dwellings of conventional or manufactured construction, in accordance with Section 4.10.

State licensed residential foster care facilities housing six (6) or less persons.

State licensed childcare centers providing care for six (6) or fewer children.

D. Permitted accessory uses;

3. One accessory building-maximum size 32’x 40’ and one and one-half stories.

4. Home occupations, Type I. including but not limited to, daycare, beauty shops, handicrafts, such as dressmaking, millinery or watch repairing, and professional occupations such as the office of a physician, dentist, lawyer, or accountant. There shall be no external evidence of such occupation except a name plate not exceeding four (4) square feet in area, and further that the use or occupations shall not require or effect any change in the external character of the dwelling. No more than one (1) full or part time employee, other than family occupants, may be employed in a home occupation in this zone.

3. One (1) storage shed or carport with less than 200 square feet, a maximum of

one and one-half stories (25 feet) and which meets all setback requirements.

 

E. Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit:

The following uses shall be allowed when determined to be in conformance with the provisions of Section 3.06 and 5.03: 4.11, 4.12 and 4.13:

1. Churches, schools, libraries, and publicly owned buildings.

2. Hospitals, clinics, sanitariums, convalescent homes, and similar structures

designed for human care.

5. Public utility buildings.

6. Community country clubs, fraternal lodges and similar civic or social organizations when not operated for profit.

7. Land for parks, playgrounds, public and private swimming pools, and similar facilities for outdoor exercise and recreation when not operated for profit.

8. Accessory buildings, structures and uses customary and incidental to any of the above permitted special uses, such uses shall include temporary signs.

9. "Reserved".

Section 3.02 – District R2 (Residential – Resort)

A. Intent:

To provide for the establishment and preservation of higher density, varied use types of housing including resort-related residences and enterprises in areas conducive to such use.

No land shall be used hereafter, and no building or structure erected upon any premises and used for other than one or more of the following uses, except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance.

B. Area and Dimensional Regulations

Minimum Lot Area and Frontage Width: For two (2) family dwellings; 12,000 square foot area for each dwelling unit; 100 feet frontage width, except as permitted in 4.02.

1. Minimum Yard Dimensions: Must meet the requirements of Sections 4.02 and Table 4.03 or 2.05.

2. Maximum Building Height: Two and one-half (2-1/2) stories; thirty-five (35) feet.

C. Principal permitted uses:

No land shall be used hereafter, and no buildings or structure erected or moved upon any premises and used for other than one or more of the following uses, except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance.

1. Same as R1 – subject to regulations of that district.

2. Two-family dwelling

1. Single-family and two-family dwellings of conventional or manufactured construction, in accordance with Section 4.10.

2. State licensed residential foster care facilities housing six (6) or less persons.

3. State licensed child-care centers providing care for six (6) or fewer children.

D. Permitted accessory uses:

E.

1. Same as R1 – subject to regulations of that district.

2. One accessory building-maximum size 32’x 40’ and one and one-half stories.

3. Home occupations, Type I.

4. One (1) storage shed or carport with less than 200 square feet, a maximum of

one and one-half stories (25 feet) and which meets all setback requirements.

F. Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit:

The following uses shall be allowed when determined to be in conformance with provisions of Sections 3.06 and 5.03 4.11, 4.12 and 4.13:

1. Churches, schools, libraries and publicly owned buildings.

2. Public utility buildings.

3. Land for parks, playgrounds, public and private swimming pools, and similar facilities for outdoor exercise and recreation when not operated for profit.

4. Accessory buildings, structures and uses customary and incidental to any of the above permitted special uses; such uses shall include temporary signs.

5. Multiple family dwellings.

6. "Reserved".

7. An accessory building on a vacant lot

Section 3.03. – District RO (Residential – Old Plats)

A. Intent.

The purpose of this district is to provide reasonable regulations for the development of single lots in subdivisions platted before 1967 where such lots have less than 8,720 square feet of total area and/or are less than 50 feet wide.

B. Area and Dimensional Regulations.

In order to qualify for building permits each lot must obtain well and septic permits from the Van Buren County Health Department. Lots in whole or in part within a Special Flood Hazard Area as defined on a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) are specifically excluded from this section and may only be developed under the rules for the R1 Residential District subject to the restrictions of the state building code and Article 2.0.

1. Lot area and width: Minimum lot area shall be 12,000 square feet and the minimum lot width shall be 100 feet; except as provided for in Section 2.05 for legal pre-existing nonconforming lots of record.

2. Lot coverage: a minimum of 400 square feet for two (2) off-street parking spaces each measuring 10 feet by 20 feet and having direct access to a street or road is required for each dwelling or principal use and shall remain unobstructed by buildings, decks, patios, fences, trees or vegetation. There shall also be a space on the parcel for a sanitary septic field meeting all the requirements of the public health code.

Yard and setback requirements: Below are exceptions to 4.03 and 2.05.

Front yard: 20 feet from the right-of-way line. Exception: where a yard abuts a county road the front yard setback shall be in conformance with Section 4.03.

Side yard: 3 feet minimum with a total of 10 for both side yards. If an existing side yard is less than 3 feet or if there is a structure on an adjacent lot that will be within six (6) feet of the proposed structure or addition, then the structure shall have the side-wall constructed to meet or exceed the building code.

Corner lots:

Where a single lot is less than 50 feet wide and has a side yard

which abuts a road right-of-way, no structure of any kind shall

encroach upon an equilateral triangle measuring 20 feet along

each street front from the street corner. Where one of the roads is a

county road the required setback from the county road shall be in

conformance with Section 4.03.

Rear yard (except lake front): 10 feet, except where the rear yard abuts a side/back street or alley, in which case, if a 20-foot setback is not provided on the front of the property then a 20-foot setback shall be provided at the rear of the property.

On a corner lot the rear yard is the yard opposite the street that fronts on the narrowest yard.

 

Lake front yard:

i. Principal structures and all dwelling structures shall not extend closer to the lake than existing structures of the same type on adjacent lots or lots within 200 feet on either side. If there are no occupied lots within 200 feet then the setback shall be 25 feet from the normal high water level or established flood hazard elevation.

ii. Accessory structures shall not extend closer to the lake than existing accessory structures on adjacent lots within 200 feet on either side. If there are no similar structures on adjacent lots within 200 feet then the setback shall be the same as for a dwelling except that structures less than 200 square feet in area may be located at least 5 feet from the normal high water level. If the lot is bisected by a street between the dwelling and the lake, then an accessory structure less than 200 square feet in area shall be at least 5 feet from the normal high water level and at least 20 feet from the street right-of-way line. This provision is provided as an exception to the requirements of Section 4.03.

Height limitations: Thirty-five (35) feet, for all principal structures; a maximum of twenty-five (25) feet for all accessory structures, except accessory structures smaller than 200 square feet within a lake front yard shall not exceed 8 feet in height from the existing grade to the peak.(Sec.4.03)

C. Principal Permitted Uses.

1. Single-family dwellings held for seasonal use, specifically excluding

recreational vehicles, campers and motor homes on lots where no permanent dwelling exists.

2. Single-family dwellings of conventional or manufactured construction, in

accordance with Section 4.10.

3. State licensed residential foster care facilities housing six (6) or less persons.

State licensed child-care centers providing care for six (6) or fewer children.

D. Permitted Accessory Uses.

Normal accessory structures to single-family dwellings. Such structures shall be at least 1.5 times the height of the structure from the edge of the road surface, but may be as close as 3 feet to any side or rear lot line.

Home occupations, Type I.

E. Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit:

The following uses shall be allowed when determined to be in conformance with provisions of Sections 4.11, 4.12 and 4.13:

1. Churches, schools, libraries and publicly owned buildings.

2. Public utility buildings.

3. Land for parks, playgrounds, public and private swimming pools, and similar facilities for outdoor exercise and recreation when not operated for profit.

4. Accessory buildings, structures and uses customary and incidental to any of the above special uses; such uses shall include temporary signs.

5. "Reserved".

6. An accessory building on a vacant lot.

Section 3.03 04 - District A (Agricultural - Parcels 10 acres or greater)

A. Parcels 10 acres or greater (Permitted Uses – Agricultural)

Intent:

To conserve and enhance the low density and agricultural use of those portions of the Township that now have such character. By conserving such character, the Township and other public agencies will realize an economic gain in public expenditures by minimizing scattered demand for urban types and levels of services, utilities, and facilities, in otherwise predominantly rural areas.

B 1. Area and Dimensional Regulations:

1a. Minimum Lot Area and Frontage Width: 10 acres or greater; 200 feet frontage width. See also Section 7.337.07, "farm".

2 b. Minimum Easement Width to Back Parcel: Twenty (20) feet.

3. c Minimum Yard Dimensions: Fifty (50) feet front yard; ten (10)

feet side yards; twenty (20) feet rear yard; twenty (20) feet corner lot setback. See also Sections 4.03 02 and 4.0403.

4d. Maximum Building Height: Two and one-half (2-1/2) stories; Thirty-five (35) feet.

C 2. Principal Permitted Uses:

No land shall be used, and no building or structure erected or moved upon any premises and used for other than one or more of the following uses, except as otherwise provided for in this Ordinance.

1 a. Detached single-family dwelling in conformance with Section 4.10

2 b. Farms, including livestock and poultry operations, dairy farming,

horticultural operations, grain farming, forestry operations, and garden plots.

c. State licensed residential foster care facilities housing six (6) or

less persons.

State licensed childcare centers providing care for six (6) or fewer

children.

D 3. Permitted Accessory Uses:

1 a. Storage shed or carport with less than 200 square feet or less,

and a maximum of one and one-half stories (25’) in height

2 b. Buildings and structures customarily incidental to farming.

3 c. Dwelling structures for migrant workers.

4 d. Roadside stands and buildings for the packaging, storage, and sale

of agricultural products.

5 e. Maximum two (2) non-agricultural buildings exceeding 200 square

feet in area. Agricultural buildings exempt under the state building code are exempt from this limitation.

6 f. Home Occupations Type I

4. Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit

The following uses shall be allowed when determined to be in conformance with the provisions of Sections 4.12 and 4.13 as applicable:

a Churches, schools, libraries, and publicly owned buildings.

b. Hospitals, clinics, sanitariums, convalescent homes, and similar

structures designed for human care.

3 c. Public utility buildings.

4 d. Community country clubs, fraternal lodges and similar civic

organizations when not operated for profit.

5 e. Land for parks, playgrounds, public and private swimming pools,

and similar facilities for outdoor exercise and recreation when not operated for profit.

6 f. Food processing and packaging industries; farm equipment sales

and services.

g. Oil and brine wells and storage facilities for same.

h. Bed & Breakfast operations.

i. An accessory building on a lot adjoining the principal residence.

10. j. Accessory buildings, structures and uses customary and incidental

to any of the above permitted uses, such uses shall include temporary signs.

"Reserved"

Outdoor Storage Facilities

Seasonal Storage in Existing Barns

Section 3.04 - District A (Agricultural - Parcels under 10 acres)

B. Parcels Under 10 Acres (Permitted Uses – Residential)

Intent:

To conserve and enhance the low density and agricultural use of those portions of the Township that now have such character. By conserving such character, the Township and other public agencies will realize an economic gain in public expenditures by minimizing scattered demand for urban types and levels of services, utilities, and facilities, in otherwise predominantly rural areas. To provide for the usage of agriculturally zoned parcels that are less than ten (10) acres in area.

1B. Area and Dimensional Regulations:

1 a. Minimum Lot Area and Frontage Width: 1 acre; 150 feet

frontage width. See also Section 7.33 7.02, "farm".

2 b. Minimum Easement Width to Back Parcel: Twenty (20) feet.

3 c. Minimum Yard Dimensions: Fifty (50) feet front yard; ten (10)

feet side yards; twenty (20) feet rear yard; twenty (20) feet corner lot setback. See also Sections 2.05, 4.03 02 and 4.0403.

4 d. Maximum Building Height: Two and one-half (2-1/2) stories;

Thirty-five (35) feet.

C 2. Principal Permitted Uses: No land shall be used, and no building or

structure erected or moved upon any premises and used for other than one or more of the following uses, except as otherwise provided for in this Ordinance.

a1. Detached single-family dwelling in conformance with Section

4.10.

b2. Farms, horticultural operations, grain farming, forestry operations, and garden plots. Farms may include non-intensive livestock and poultry operations, dairy farming,

c. State licensed residential foster care facilities housing six (6) or

less persons.

State licensed childcare centers providing care for six (6) or fewer

children.

3D. Permitted Accessory Uses:

1 a. One (1) storage shed or carport with less than 200 square feet or less,

and a maximum of one and one-half stories (25 feet) in height

maximum of one and one-half stories in height

b2. Buildings and structures customarily incidental to farming.

3 c. Dwelling structures for migrant workers.

4 d. Roadside stands and buildings for the packaging, storage, and sale

of agricultural products.

e5. A maximum of two (2) accessory buildings larger than 200 square feet but not to exceed 2,400 square feet each.

f6. Home Occupations – Type I

E 4. Used Permitted by Special use Permit:

The following uses shall be allowed when determined to be in conformance with the provisions of Sections 4.12 and 4.13 as applicable:

1 a. Food processing and packaging industries; farm equipment sales

and services.

2 b. Churches, schools, libraries, and publicly owned buildings

3 c. Hospitals, clinics, sanitariums, convalescent homes, and similar

structures for human care.

4 d. Public utility buildings.

5 e. Community country clubs, fraternal lodges, and similar civic or

social organizations when not operated for profit.

f6. Land for parks, playgrounds, public and private swimming pools, and similar facilities for outdoor exercise and recreation when not operated for profit.

g7. Oil and brine wells and storage facilities for same.

8 h. Bed & Breakfast operations.

9 i. An accessory building on a lot adjoining the principal residence.

10 j. Accessory buildings, structures and uses customary and incidental

to any of the above permitted uses, such uses shall include temporary signs.

"Reserved".

Section 3.05 – District C (Commercial)

Intent:

To encourage and facilitate the development and maintenance of commercial endeavors of various types in appropriate areas. Further to encourage the exclusion of certain uses and activities that tends to disrupt the efficient functioning of commercial areas. No land shall be used thereafter, and no building or structure erected or moved upon any premises and used for other than one or more of the following uses, except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance.

Site plans shall be submitted for all Commercial uses pursuant to Section 4.11 3.06 of this Ordinance.

B. Area and Dimensional Regulations:

1. Minimum Lot Area and Frontage Width: 12,000 square feet area; 100 feet frontage width.

2. Minimum Yard Setbacks: Must meet the requirements of Sections 4.0 and Table 4.03.4.02, 4.03 and 2.01.

3. Parking: Clear vision area with one (1) parking space for every twenty (20) lineal feet of frontage.

4. Maximum Building Height: Two and one-half (2-1/2) stories; thirty-five (35) feet.

Principal permitted uses:

1. Stores, showrooms, and shops for the conduct of generally recognized retail business when conducted within buildings having a roof and four sidewalls.

2. Personal service shops, such as professional offices, barber shops, beauty parlors, shoe repair shops, laundry, and dry cleaning pick-up shops.

3. Banks, dressmaking, millinery, photographic studios, undertaking establishments, public utility buildings, and publicly owned buildings.

4. Community clubs, fraternal organizations and similar civic and social organizations.

5. Gasoline and oil service stations, garages, and used car lots, but not the storage, processing or sale of used auto parts or other items commonly referred to as junk or hazardous materials.

6. Outdoor advertising signs not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area.

D. Permitted accessory uses

1. Outdoor advertising signs not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area.

2. Storage shed or carport under 200 square feet; maximum one and one-half stories (25 feet) in height; must meet all setback requirements.

 

E. Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit:

The following uses shall be allowed when determined to be in conformance with the provisions of Section 3.06 and 5.03 4.11, 4.12 and 4.13..

1. Outdoor theaters, dance halls, recreational hall, and other enterprises of recreation and amusement.

2. Sale and servicing of agricultural machinery, lumber yards, and warehouses.

Establishments located within buildings for the repair, alteration, finishing,

assembling, fabrication, or storage of goods primarily for local and retail

sale.

4. Outdoor advertising signs exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area.

5. Hotels, motels and bed-and-breakfast operations.

6. Attached dwelling

7. One accessory building no larger than 720 square feet.

8. Warehouse and Mini-storage Facilities (indoor storage)

Section 3.06 – District I (Industrial)

Intent:

To encourage and facilitate the development of industrial enterprises in a setting conducive to public health, economic growth, and protection from blight, deterioration, non-industrial encroachment and efficient traffic movement including employee and truck traffic. No land shall be used thereafter, and no building or structure erected or moved upon any premises and used for other than one or more of the following uses, except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance.

Site plans shall be submitted for all industrial uses pursuant to Section 3.06 of this Ordinance.

B. Area and Dimensional Regulations

1. Minimum Lot Area and Frontage Width: 12,000 square feet lot area; 100 feet frontage width.

2. Minimum Yard Dimensions: Must meet the requirements of Sections 4.0 and Table 4.03. 2.04, 4.02 and 4.03

3. Maximum Building Height: Two and one-half (2-1/2) stories; thirty-five (35) feet.

Principal permitted uses:

1. Manufacture or assembly of electrical appliances, motors and instruments; manufacture or assembly of signs, billboard, and advertising structures; other manufacturing or assembly operations of similar nature not attended by excessive noises, smoke, odors, vibrations or dust.

2. Dairy plants, canneries, wineries, agricultural storage and packaging, and similar food processing operations and requiring a special permit under this section.

3. Sheet metal, machine shops, fabrication shops, and monument works.

D. Permitted accessory uses:

1. Outdoor advertising signs not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area.

2. Storage shed or carport under 200 square feet; maximum one and one-half stories (25 feet) in height; must meet all setback requirements.

E. Uses Permitted by Special Use Permit: