Guide to Development

The Guide to Development document is intended to help applicants smoothly navigate the City's development process.

Conceptual Review:

If you wish to setup a conceptual meeting with the Planning staff,  please follow the following steps:
• Know the location of your project. Locate Your Site -Where you propose to locate or build may determine your level of development  
review. First, determine if you are locating in the Historic District. Then, see the zoning map and cross reference the zoning ordinance for details regarding your zoning designation. 
• Develop a clear vision for the project (what do I want and how will I do it?) 
• Create a rough sketch of the property where your project is to be located showing:  
                  Accurate lot dimensions, including lot width, length, and area calculations of the subject property.  
                  Parking areas accurately depicting location, size, and number (if applicable). 
                  Include the location and dimensions of all structures,  including height, setbacks from other structures and property lines. 
• Please call or email staff listed on the bottom of this page to set up the meeting.

Development Flowchart  - The development flowchart summarizes how a development review process might go, from start to finish.

Note: The City offers one conceptual site plan review submittal and meeting with City staff, free of charge, ahead of a future Planning Commission submittal.


Other Resources for Developers:

Locate Your Site -Where you propose to locate or build may determine your level of development review. First, determine if you are locating in the Historic District. Then, see the zoning map and cross reference the zoning ordinance for details regarding your zoning designation.

Permit CenterSee the Permit Center for application forms pertaining to your proposed project. For permit fees, the City accepts the following payments in person:  cash, check, or charge.  Payments can be made at City Hall in the Building Department between 8 am and 4 pm. 

Development Feedback Survey  -  Please help the City better manage the development review process by filling out the survey.


Staff Contacts

Planning & Zoning: 

Holli Andrews 
 City Planner

 handrews@cityofypsilanti.com

 734-483-9646


 Historic District Commission:

Ellen Thackery
 Preservation Planner
 ethackery@cityofypsilanti.com
 734-483-9646