Planning & Building
Jennifer Howland, Community Development Manager
616.847.3490
Mary Ann Zaverl, Administrative Assistant
616.847.3490
The Planning and Community Development Department is responsible for administering the City's planning, neighborhood development, and construction regulation programs.
Safe Routes 2 School Presentation
Department Processes for Planning, Zoning, and Building
Building & Inspection
Phil Brummel, Building and Mechanical Inspector
George Dood, Building and Electrical Inspector
Officer Thomas Jones, Code Enforcement Officer
616.847.3490
The Building and Inspection Division enforces the minimum standards for the protection of life, health, environment, public safety, and general welfare. 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.
Remodeling, Inspection, and Permit Seminar
Rental Housing Program
Pursuant to City Code of Ordinance Chapter 9 (Sections 201-204) all rental property and units thereof must be registered on an annual basis.
Property Improvement Program (PIP) - The City of Grand Haven currently serves as a Community Agent for the MSHDA program which offers long term, low-interest home improvement loans for both owner-occupied and rental property here in the City. To learn more about (PIP) please click on the following link PIP Brochure
Neighborhood Development
The Neighborhood Development component is designed to assist neighborhoods in maintaining property values and quality housing options 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.
Grand Haven Master Plan 2010
Parks & Recreation Master Plan 2009
Chinook Pier Area Land Use Plan 2009
Northwest Ottawa Recreation Authority - Recreation Plan 2010
Robbins Road Access Management Project
Zoning
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.
Zoning Ordinance Amendment List
Grand Haven Zoning Map (Illustrates what zoning district each property within the City is zoned)
Zoning Ordinance
Table of Contents
Article I - Administration
Article II - Interpretation and Definitions
Article III - General Provisions
Article IV - Zoning Districts
Article V - Special Land Use Requirements
Article VI - Parking
Article VII - Signage
Article VIII - Landscaping
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.