Grand Rapids, MI · Kent County
Code Interpretation Application
Property owners and other eligible applicants use this application to ask Grand Rapids’ Board of Zoning Appeals to interpret zoning ordinance text or map boundaries.
What this form is
The application requests a Board of Zoning Appeals interpretation of specific zoning ordinance language or the location of a boundary between zone districts. Applicants provide property, applicant, owner, and agent information, identify the ordinance section, and explain the requested interpretation. The packet requires a signed application and fee; applicants who are not property owners must also obtain the owner’s signature and permission.
Who needs it
Property owners and applicants with a legal interest in a property use this form to request a zoning ordinance text or map interpretation.
How to submit it
Submit the completed application and required items to the Planning Department at the Development Center, 1120 Monroe Ave NW. The document says complete applications may be submitted Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
About notarization
This document is signed without a notary; the applicant and, if different, the property owner sign and date the application.
How to submit this form
- 1
Download The Application
Download the Code Interpretation Application packet.
- 2
Complete The Form
Enter the property and applicant details, identify the ordinance section or map boundary, and explain the requested interpretation.
- 3
Gather Required Items
Complete and sign pages 2–3, attach any additional explanation sheets if needed, and include the fee. Obtain the property owner's signature if different from the applicant.
- 4
Submit To The Planning Department
Submit the completed packet to the Planning Department at the Development Center, 1120 Monroe Ave NW.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a notary for the Code Interpretation Application?
- No. The application does not require a notary. The applicant signs and dates it, and the property owner must also sign and date it if the applicant is not the owner.
- How do I submit the Code Interpretation Application?
- Submit the completed application and required items to the Planning Department at the Development Center, 1120 Monroe Ave NW. The document lists submission Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- What information does the application ask for?
- It asks for property details, applicant and owner information, the zoning ordinance section or map boundary at issue, and an explanation of the interpretation requested.
- What must I include with the application?
- The checklist requires the signed application and the listed fee. If the applicant is not the property owner, the owner must sign the application and authorize the applicant to apply.