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Oak Park,
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48237
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Planning, Zoning and Development Review

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Planning, Zoning and Development Review

If your project involves new construction, major renovation, a change in use, or site/building modifications, it may require review through the City’s Economic Development and Planning Department.

Review Types and Applications

Review Process

Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals meetings

Master Plan and Planning Documents

Annual Reports

Payment Options

Review Types and Applications

Site Plan Review
Site Plan Review is required for certain developments to ensure compliance with zoning standards and to evaluate potential impacts on surrounding properties, traffic circulation, natural resources, and the character of future development. Site Plan Review is required for most non-residential and multi-family development, planned developments, site condominiums, special land uses, and other projects identified in the Zoning Ordinance. These requests are reviewed by the Planning Commission.

Administrative Review (Sketch Plan Review)
Certain minor projects may qualify for Administrative Review through the submission of a sketch plan. Eligible projects are reviewed by the City Planner using the same standard applied to a full Site Plan Review. The City Planner may require additional information or refer the application to the Planning Commission if a full reviewed is warranted.

Conditional Land Use
Some uses are permitted within a zoning district only when specific conditions established by the Zoning Ordinance are satisfied. Requests are reviewed through a Site Plan Review to ensure compliance with all applicable ordinance requirements

Special Land Use
Certain uses require additional review to ensure compatibility with surrounding properties and compliance with the standards of the Zoning Ordinance. Special Land Uses require Site Plan Review. These requests are reviewed by the Planning Commission and include a public hearing.

Rezoning Requests
In some cases, a property's existing zoning classification may no longer be suitable for its intended use or future development. Property owners may apply for a rezoning to change the zoning district of a site. Rezoning requests are evaluated for consistency with the Master Plan, compatibility with surrounding properties, and potential impacts on the community. These requests are reviewed by the Planning Commission and City Council and include a public hearing.

Variances (Zoning Board of Appeals)
Some projects may be unable to meet zoning ordinance requirements, such as setbacks, building height, lot coverage, or other dimensional or use standards, due to unique physical characteristics of a property or practical difficulties associated with the site. In these limited circumstances, a property owner may apply for a variance through the
Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). These requests are reviewed by the Zoning l and include a public hearing.

Contact the Economic Development and Planning Department early in your project to ensure a smooth process.

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Review Process

Whether you are planning a small improvement or a large-scale development, city staff is committed to making the development review process clear, efficient and collaborative. We encourage you to connect with us early in the process.

Most projects follow these general steps:

1. Conceptual Site Review Meeting (Optional)
Scheduling a conceptual site review (pre-application) meeting with the Economic Development and Planning staff allows you to discuss your ideas before submitting an application. These meetings are free and designed to help you understand applicable zoning requirements and standards, identify potential issues early, and get feedback on your concept before investing in detailed plans.

We encourage you to begin with a conceptual site plan review meeting.

2. Application Submission
Submit the application, plans, supporting documents, and fees required for your project. Application requirements vary based on the type of review being requested. Submitting a complete application package will help avoid delays. Please refer to the applicable application review type above.

3. Staff Review

Planning staff will review your application for completeness and compliance with zoning regulations and city standards. Staff will also prepare a report with comments and recommendations to guide the next steps in the process.

4. Public Notice (if required)
Certain applications require public notification and hearings, including:

  • Special Land Use
  • Rezoning
  • Zoning Board of Appeals requests

This step ensures transparency and provides an opportunity for public input.

5. Board and Commission Review
Your application will be reviewed either by the Planning Commission or Zoning Board of Appeals. 

They will either:

  • Approve the application
  • Deny the application
  • Request revisions

Rezoning requests will also go to City Council for final consideration.

6. Next Steps
Once approved, you can move forward with final plan submissions, permits and construction. Planning staff will continue to work with you to ensure all requirements are met.

Timeline

In general, the review process takes approximately 30 days from the submission of a complete application to Planning Commission consideration, depending on the project's complexity. Projects that require City Council review, such as rezonings, will take longer due to the extra approval step.

We’re here to help. Reaching out early is the best way to save time, reduce costs and keep your project on track.

  • Contact our team to start the conversation. We look forward to working with you.

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Planning Commission and Zoning Boards of Appeals meetings

Planning Commission

The Oak Park Planning Commission is warranted under Michigan Public Act 285 of 1931 and Oak Park City Ordinance. It is the responsibility of the Planning Commission to guide community development. The Planning Commission also makes recommendations on zoning and other land controls and updates the Master Plan.

  • The Planning Commission meets the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m. in the Oak Park City Hall at 14000 Oak Park Blvd.
  • View the Planning Commission meeting schedule here.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is established under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the City’s Zoning Ordinance. The ZBA hears and decides appeals of administrative interpretations and reviews requests for variances from the application of zoning requirements.

  • The ZBA meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month in the Oak Park City Hall at 14000 Oak Park Blvd.
  • View the ZBA meeting schedule here.

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Master Plan and Planning Documents

Master Plan

The city's Master Plan establishes a long-term vision and policy framework to guide growth, development and investment in the City of Oak Park. It serves as a road map for land use, infrastructure and community development decisions, to ensure change occurs in a coordinated and thoughtful manner.

The plan addresses land use, community facilities, transportation, recreation and economic development. It is used by city officials, boards and staff to inform decision-making, evaluate development proposals and plan for future needs.

Archived Master Plans

Ongoing Master Plan Update (In Progress)

The City of Oak Park is partnering with the planning firm of Giffels Webster to develop the next update to the Master Plan. This effort will build on past work while incorporating new data, trends and community input to shape the city’s future.

Community participation is a critical part of this process. Residents, business owners and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and share their input by visiting https://engage.giffelswebster.com/oak-park-master-plan.

Your feedback will help guide decisions about land use, development, infrastructure and quality of life in Oak Park for years to come.

Planning Documents

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Annual Reports

In accordance with the Michigan Planning Enabling Act (MCL 125.3819), the Planning Commission prepares an annual report to the City Council summarizing its activities and recommendations.

These reports provide an overview of cases reviewed, actions taken and emerging development and zoning trends. This helps ensure transparency and informed decision-making within the City of Oak Park.

Review past annual reports below.

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Payment Options

Site Plan Review applications, Zoning Board of Appeal requests and all other Economic Development and Planning Department fees may be paid in the following ways:

  • Online using this link: online at https://oakparkmi.gov/pay-bills-online.   

  • Pay in-person at the Municipal Services Office at 14300 Oak Park Blvd. 
  • Drop your payment in the drop box outside City Hall at 14000 Oak Park Blvd.
  • Mail your payment to Municipal Services, 14300 Oak Park Blvd., Oak Park, MI 48237.

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