Be sure to read the related articles in the Zoning Ordinance. These include:
Keep in mind special uses often vary from district to district. You'll find application procedures and review standards in Article 12, Section 5.12.09.
We strongly recommend you request a meeting with Planning Department staff before you begin. Pre-application meetings help ensure a smooth application process.
Feel free to call or email us before you apply. Our phone number and email address are in the Contact Us section of this page.
Neighborhood outreach is strongly recommended for a Special Land Use application. When you talk to your neighbors, you'll be able to receive comments and resolve conflicts before the Planning Commission review. Failure to conduct outreach activities may result in a tabling of the request.
Check Section 5.12.06 of the Zoning Ordinance for recommended outreach procedures.
You will be invoiced after your application is reviewed by our staff.
Apply Online
We'll review your application before submitting to the Planning Commission. We may contact you with questions, ask for more information, or recommend changes for clarity.
After reviewing your application, we'll forward it to the Planning Commission for a public hearing. A notice of the public hearing is published in the Grand Rapids Press 15 days before the hearing. We notify property owners and residents within a 300-foot radius of the subject property with a post card. Anyone interested can submit a letter to us or speak at the public hearing.
Planning Commission hearings take place in the City Commission Chambers, 9th Floor of City Hall. Each public hearing item for consideration is assigned an approximate start time. Here's what to expect:
If approved, the effective date is 16 days after the decision.
We'll provide you a letter with the Planning Commission's decision. The letter will include any conditions of approval. If the Planning Commission denies your application, you may appeal the decision to the Board of Zoning Appeals. You must file your appeal with the Planning Department within 15 days of the decision. Conditions of approval can't be appealed.
Neighborhood outreach is very strongly recommended for a Special Land Use application. When you talk to your neighbors, you'll be able to receive comments and resolve conflicts before the Planning Commission review. Failure to conduct outreach activities may result in a tabling of the request.
Download the Application
Does your application involve the sale or consumption of alcohol? Make sure to submit the Supplemental Alcohol application(PDF, 225KB).
Call our office if you need help applying. You can find our number in the Contact Us section of this page. We're happy to help you fill out an application!
We recommend you request a meeting with Planning Department staff before you begin. Pre-application meetings help ensure a smooth application process.
Visit us at the address listed in the Contact Us section of this page. We'll provide you with an application and help you complete it. Below is the form if you'd like to print it before you come in.
Planning Commission Owner Authorization Form
Zoning Ordinance
Zoning Maps 2017
How To Use The Zoning Ordinance
Supplemental Alcohol Sales Application