Bill > HB5531

This bill amends Michigan's zoning laws to clarify and streamline the process for site plan approval, which is a requirement for certain land uses or activities regulated by a local zoning ordinance. It mandates that zoning ordinances must specify who is responsible for reviewing and approving site plans, and that approved site plans become part of the official record. Any subsequent actions related to the approved land use must align with the site plan unless changes are agreed upon by the landowner and the approving body. The bill also outlines that while zoning ordinances must detail site plan submission and approval procedures, local governments can only request studies or documents that are reasonably necessary to evaluate the proposal based on its nature, scope, and intensity, and only if they are needed to ensure compliance with zoning standards, state or federal law, or to address a demonstrated public health or safety concern. Importantly, after initial site plan approval, additional studies or documents can only be requested if there's a material change to the plan's scope, or to ensure compliance with existing standards or address a demonstrated public health or safety concern, and not to impose new requirements or reopen previously approved issues. The bill also sets a 60-day deadline for local governments to approve, reject, or conditionally approve a site plan, requiring specific reasons for rejection or conditional approval and information on how to appeal. Finally, it defines "initial site plan approval" to exclude preliminary reviews and emphasizes that a site plan must be approved if it meets the established requirements and standards.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2026-HB-5531