What is a Zoning Verification Letter?

A Zoning Verification Letter is a document provided by the Township to verify the current zoning of a particular piece of property, and the types of uses that are allowed in that zoning district.

What Type of Information is Provided in a Zoning Verification Letter?

The Zoning Verification Letter will contain the following information:

  • The zoning district that applies to the property.
  • The future land use designation of the subject property as part of the Garfield Township Master Plan (GTMP).
  • Any specific GTMP sub-area policies that apply to the subject property.
  • If requested, a list of permitted uses in the zoning district in Ordinance 68, Article 3, Table 3-4 Use Chart.

In addition, the letter can indicate whether one proposed use is allowed by the zoning district of the subject property.

The Zoning Administrator is not authorized to address whether existing development on the subject property conforms to current code requirements.

The Zoning Verification Letter will be provided only in the standard format approved by Garfield Township (see sample below).

How do I obtain a Zoning Verification Letter?

Complete the application form in full and submit with the required non-refundable application fee(s) of $50 per Parcel Identification Number (PIN) to:

Charter Township of Garfield
Attn: Zoning Administrator
3848 Veterans Drive
Traverse City, MI 49684

Make check payable to "Garfield Township"

Sample Letter

Mr./Ms.___________________:

In response to your letter requesting zoning verification of the above mentioned property, please be advised of the following:

  • The subject property is zoned __________, and is subject to the use and development standards of that zoning district.
  • The subject property has a ____________ Future Land Use designation. Subarea policy/policies _____________ apply to the subject property.
  • The ____________ zoning classification is/is not consistent with the ____________ Future Land Use designation.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Garfield Township Planning Division at 231-941-1620.

Helpful Hints

  • Make sure that the property is located within Garfield Township prior to requesting a letter.
  • Submit the request at least 10 days before the letter is needed.
  • Provide a copy of the legal description of the subject property to your request for zoning verification.
  • Use the application form provided.

Zoning Verification Letter Request Form

Please read these instructions completely before signing and submitting this form.
If there are errors, or if payment is insufficient, your letter may be significantly delayed.