City of Grand Haven Development Guide

Thank you for your interest in developing in the City of Grand Haven. This development guide will help you find important information as you pursue your project. Please reach out to the Community Development Manager at (616) 935-3276 at any time with questions.

The Community Development Department is your first stop in City government. We will help you through the process from concept to permitting, and help you coordinate with other departments like Public Works, Public Safety and Building. In addition, the Building Official can be reached at (616) 842-3460. We encourage you to talk with them early in the process; they will help you interface with your architect/design professional.

Guides to Development Process with Timelines
Boards and Commissions Meeting Schedule

Applications and Resources

Site Plan Review Application
*Required for all applications for projects other than one-family and two-family dwellings and accessory structures over 100 square feet
Special Land Use Application
Planned Development Application
     Planned Development Pre-Application Conference Checklist (Sec. 40-421.04.C)
Zoning Change Application (rezoning or text amendment)
Zoning Board of Appeals Application
Fee Schedule
Zoning Ordinance
Zoning Map
Master Plan
Downtown Design Guidelines

Economic Development and Financial Incentives

The City of Grand Haven contracts with the local Chamber of Commerce to provide economic development services. Please contact Elizabeth Butler at (616) 846-3153 for information about financial incentives and assistance.

Economic Development Corporation/Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The Economic Development Corporation/Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is charged to actively pursue the redevelopment of environmentally contaminated properties, and to assist in development of commercial and industrial properties within the City of Grand Haven. Part of their role includes the management of a revolving loan fund, which may be used to provide “gap” financing for businesses within the city. Please contact staff liaison Emily Greene at 616-847-4893 for more information.