Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals grants variances and interprets provisions of the City’s zoning code, as well as resolves disputes regarding decisions of the zoning official.
Day/Time: Held on the third Tuesday of every month at 6:00 PM, unless otherwise specified or canceled. A meeting schedule is provided below.
Location: Main Building, Council Chambers.
Alternate Location: South Building, Dome Auditorium
The public may attend the meetings in person or via Zoom using the information below.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89916324520
Meeting ID: 899 1632 4520
Dial by your location: +1 309 205 3325 US
The document linked below provides information for residents who would like to participate in the zoning process for variances or interpretations.
“Michigan State University Extension Land Use Series – How to Participate in the Zoning Process”
Meeting materials can be found in the linked table below. Materials are typically posted seven days prior to a meeting.
| Meeting Materials | Google Drive |
Zoning Board of Appeals Applications
Zoning Board of Appeals application for zoning ordinance interpretation. Updated 7.8.25
| Resource | Description | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Use & Non-Use Variance Explanations | This file includes two informational documents which explain the meaning behind the various standards for use and non-use variances. | Open file (new tab) Download |
| Use Variance Application | Zoning Board of Appeals application for a use variance. Updated 7.8.25 | Open file (new tab) Download |
| Use Variance Application (Form Fill) | Zoning Board of Appeals form fill application for a use variance. Updated 7.8.25 | Open file (new tab) Download |
| Non-Use Variance Application | Zoning Board of Appeals application for a non-use variance. Updated 7.8.25 | Open file (new tab) Download |
| Non-Use Variance Application (Form Fill) | Zoning Board of Appeals form fill application for a non-use variance. Updated 7.8.25 | Open file (new tab) Download |
| Administrative Appeal Application | Zoning Board of Appeals application for administrative appeal. Updated 7.8.25 | Open file (new tab) Download |
| Interpretation Application | Zoning Board of Appeals application for zoning ordinance interpretation. Updated 7.8.25 | Open file (new tab) Download |
Zoning Board of Appeals Documents
| Resource | Description | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Schedule | 2026 Meeting Schedule for the Zoning Board of Appeals. Application deadlines are approximate and does not guarantee placement on any specific agenda. | Open file (new tab) Download |
| How to Participate in the Variance Review Process | "This flyer provides tips and suggestions for effective public participation in a zoning decision involving an appeal or a variance. Your participation in a public hearing is an important element of the decision- making process. With just a little prior knowledge of zoning and zoning decisions, you can increase your effectiveness in providing verbal and written comments. This flyer will help you prepare for a Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) or Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) hearing on an appeal or variance." | Open file (new tab) Download |
| ZBA Variance Procedure Information | Section §50-196 Variance Procedure from the Zoning Ordinance. | Open file (new tab) Download |
| 2025 ZBA Member Roster | Zoning Board of Appeals members as of February 5th, 2025. | Open file (new tab) Download |
| Guide to Development | A document detailing the various application review processes within the Department of Planning and Development. | Open file (new tab) Download |
| Public Participation Plan | A document designed to provide a framework for determining the appropriate type and amount of public participation required for various purposes, and also to identify a variety of communication and participation strategies that are appropriate based on the intended audience. This document applies to those bodies under the purview of the Department of Planning and Development. | Open file (new tab) Download |
| ZBA By-Laws | Open file (new tab) Download |