Planning & Community Development
The Planning and Community Development Department is responsible for administering the City's planning, neighborhood development, and construction regulation programs.
Building & Inspection
The Building and Inspection Division enforces the minimum standards for the protection of life, health, environment, public safety, and general welfare. In addition, the Building Department has recently hired a Housing and Code Enforcement Officer, who is responsible for specialized inspection work related to residential rental unit inspections and blight enforcement. The Building and Inspection division is responsible for building, mechanical, and electrical plan reviews and inspection. The City contracts with the State of Michigan for plumbing inspections. The following permits are reviewed and issued by the Planning and Community Development Department: Building (remodeling, additions, siding, etc.), Mechanical (furnace, A/C units, etc.), Electrical (new service and changing of service, etc.), Signage, Driveways, Sheds, Fencing, Sidewalk Cafés, and Temporary Use Permits. Please contact the Department at 616-847-3490 for additional information and fees.
Neighborhood Development
The Neighborhood Development component is designed to assist neighborhoods in maintaining property values and quality housing for diverse populations.
Housing Grants & Home Buyer Education
Planning
The Planning aspect provides information and advisory services regarding growth and development; and responds to public inquiries regarding zoning, land use, and development standards. The department also processes current and long-range development applications in accordance with the City's Master Plan and zoning regulations.
Current Projects
Zoning & Code Enforcement
There are many zoning districts within the City that have different requirements for front and side yard setbacks, building height, lot size, etc. Before you decide to add a garage or addition to your home, you will want to check on the zoning requirements for your property.
Grand Haven Zoning Map (Illustrates what zoning district each property within the City is zoned)
Code Enforcement
The Planning and Community Development Department strives to achieve voluntary compliance with the City's Codes through a process of notification and education. In collaboration with the Grand Haven Department of Public Safety, our department enforces housing, zoning, and property maintenance violations with the ultimate goal of improving and maintaining property values and the quality of life in the City of Grand Haven.
To report a public nuisance for Code Enforcement investigation, please call 616-847-3490 or send an email including the address of the property in question and the reason for the complaint to kkeery@grandhaven.org
Forms & Permit Applications
Forms and permit applications are available on the forms and permits page. Please download pdf file, print, complete, and return to the Planning & Community Development Department.
Master Plans
Follow the links below for information on Grand Haven's master plans.