Module 5: Zoning Tools & Techniques
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Learn how to use zoning to positively shap a community. Units within this module will help you execute your zoning responsibilities such as site plans, planned unit developments and subdivisions. Register online now!
Unit 5.1: Zoning 101: How Does Zoning Work?
Now that you have completed your comprehensive plan, it is time to put the plan into practice by using the tools available within the zoning ordinance. But before jumping into zoning procedures, it is necessary that you know the basics of zoning, what zoning tools are available, and how they can be used to their best advantage.
This unit introduces zoning from the vantage point of how its operation is similar to our federal government. With legislative, administrative, and quasi-judicial functions, they provide a check and balance for each other. This unit will also look at the roles different bodies and people perform. Learn More
Unit 5.2: The Site Plan
In this unit, you will learn about the nature and use of a site plan and how it relates to the requirements of the zoning ordinance. The unit covers the definition of a site plan, site plan requirements, and the process of conducting a thorough site plan review. The site plan is often the last step in the review process prior to having the development actually under construction. The plan, once approved, is what the public will see once the project is completed; and once the plan is approved, the community is committed to seeing it through. Learn More
Unit 5.3: Development Options
Land divisions, subdivisions, and condominiums are common development options available to property owners and developers. This unit will review each, starting with the methods authorized in the Michigan Land Division Act. Each of these options requires regulations as required by the state. But beyond this requirement, regulations related to land development are necessary to work in concert with the zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan. Learn More
Unit 5.4: Site Specific Zoning Tools
In this unit we discuss some of the specific tools that communities can employ to control how developments fit and function within the community. These tools are included in the zoning ordinance and support the goals of the comprehensive plan. For example, there are many aspects to reviewing a site plan including parking, site circulation, landscaping, and screening requirements. Being comfortable with the underlying concepts of zoning tools used for site plan reviews can help you employ them effectively during the development review process. Learn More
Unit 5.5: Community Wide Zoning Techniques
This unit covers a broad range of topics, including a mix of techniques that might be in a zoning ordinance and other regulations related to planning. This will make you aware of the range of choices available to communities so you can utilize the appropriate measures to assist in carrying out the goals of the comprehensive plan. Some of these measures can be invaluable in preserving natural features and cultural resources of the community. Learn More
Unit 5.6: Design Techniques for Rural Communities
There are many zoning tools that can help you implement your plan. But some of these tools have different applications, depending on whether you are dealing with a rural or urban community. In rural areas there is a much greater emphasis on preserving areas from development, while in urban areas the emphasis is on integrating development with natural features. This is the first of two design units crafted to help you use your tools properly and in the right context. Learn More
Unit 5.7: Design Techniques for Urban Communities
This is the second of two design technique units. This time we will focus on urban areas. Even though some of the techniques are the same for urban and rural areas, their application and purposes differ. Unlike rural techniques, that are intended to preserve land for important natural features and open space, the techniques in this unit are intended to create an urban setting for those who wish to live in more dynamic, active surroundings. Learn More
Unit 5.8: Making Site Plan Decisions
This unit walks you through the site plan review process and decisions you will encounter along the way. The unit offers a series of questions that you can use to help you understand how a site plan should be reviewed. Learn More
