Zoning administration and land use information for Norwich Township, Newaygo County, Michigan
Norwich Township administers a zoning ordinance to guide land use, protect property values, and preserve the rural character of the community. The Zoning Administrator reviews permit applications, enforces the ordinance, and assists residents with zoning questions.
Contact the Zoning Administrator for permit applications, zoning questions, ordinance interpretations, and land use inquiries.
Permit Applications
Submit permit applications directly to the Zoning Administrator by phone or email.
Ordinance Copies
Copies of the Norwich Township Zoning Ordinance are available from the Zoning Administrator or Township Clerk.
Before You Build
Always contact the Zoning Administrator before beginning any construction or land use change to confirm permit requirements.
A zoning permit is required before constructing, moving, or altering any structure in Norwich Township. Submit your application to the Zoning Administrator.
Required for all new residential, commercial, or agricultural structures.
Required for additions, garages, decks, and significant structural alterations to existing buildings.
Required for sheds, pole barns, and other accessory structures over a minimum size threshold.
Certain uses require a Special Use Permit approved by the Planning Commission. Contact the Zoning Administrator to determine if your project qualifies.
Norwich Township is divided into zoning districts that specify permitted uses and development standards for each area.
Preserves farmland and rural open space. Permits farming, single-family residences, and compatible agricultural uses.
Single-family residential development. Minimum lot sizes and setback requirements apply.
Retail, service, and commercial uses. Site plan review may be required for new development.
Residential uses in lake and waterfront areas. Specific setback and lot coverage requirements apply to protect water quality and shoreline character.
Undeveloped and natural lands preserved in their natural state, in areas surrounded by and/or adjacent to the Manistee National Forest. Permitted uses are limited to protect environmental resources and rural character.
The Norwich Township Planning Commission develops Master Plan, reviews special use permit applications, site plans, and proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance. The Commission meets as needed. Residents with land use proposals requiring Planning Commission review should contact the Zoning Administrator to be placed on the agenda.
Contact the Zoning Administrator or Township Clerk to inquire about upcoming Planning Commission meetings.
The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) hears requests for variances and appeals of administrative decisions made by the Zoning Administrator. If you believe a zoning decision was made in error, or if you need relief from a specific zoning requirement, you may apply for a variance or appeal to the ZBA.
Contact the Township Clerk to obtain a ZBA application or to inquire about the appeals process.
Download the current Zoning Ordinance, amendments, and the Township Master Plan below.
Master Plan
Master Plan — 2022 Revised Version
For all zoning-related questions, permit applications, and ordinance information, contact the Zoning Administrator directly.
Township Clerk
Stacie Langworthy, Township Clerk
For ZBA applications and Planning Commission scheduling, contact the Township Clerk.
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