Our Feed

We are involved in our communities, our profession, and our clients' associations and activities.

How long after someone receives a special use permit do they have to commence work or use the permit?

The Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, MCL § 125.302(1), allows a legislative body to provide for special land uses in a zoning ordinance. The township’s zoning ordinance is required to specify the requirements and standards for approval of a special use permit. Additionally, the township may approve the special use permit with conditions, such as a timeline to commence work under the permit. MCL § 125.302(4). Therefore, if there is a timeline for commencing work under the special use permit, it will be specified in either the township’s zoning ordinance or as a condition for approval. 

Recent Articles & Announcements

  1. A property owner claims they don...

    Answer: No. The nonconforming use doctrine—sometimes called “grandfathering”—only applies to zoning ordinances, not to build...

    Read More
  2. 2025 Zoning Cases Review (Part I...

    Throughout 2025, appellate courts at both the state and federal level issued several decisions that will have a notable impact on townships ...

    Read More
  3. Attorney Dan Bock recognized by ...

    Pictured: Attorney Dan Bock with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Director, DNR Deputy Director and the Natural Resources ...

    Read More
Talk to an Attorney
Request a Consultation

At Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC, we’ve been helping municipalities, franchised businesses, employers, and more with their legal needs since 2008. We’d love to learn how we can help you, too.