Grand Rapids, MI · Kent County
Nonconforming Use Application
Property owners and applicants use this application to ask Grand Rapids’ Board of Zoning Appeals to approve enlargement of a nonconforming use or a change to another nonconforming use.
What this form is
Use this application when requesting Board of Zoning Appeals approval to enlarge or increase a nonconforming use or change it to another nonconforming use. It asks for property and applicant information, the request and supporting explanations, and signatures from the applicant and, if different, the property owner. The checklist calls for a dimensioned site plan, drawings and plans, and the FY2027 application fee.
Who needs it
A property owner or applicant with a legal interest in the property needs this application to request approval to enlarge or change a nonconforming use.
How to submit it
Submit the complete application to the Planning Department at the Development Center, 1120 Monroe Ave NW. The form lists an FY2027 fee of $1,830 and says payment may be by check or credit card in person or by phone.
About notarization
This application is signed without a notary; its request and affidavit section requires signatures and dates from the applicant and, if different, the property owner.
How to submit this form
- 1
Download The Application
Download the Nonconforming Use Application PDF.
- 2
Complete The Application
Fill in the property, applicant, and request information, and provide explanations for the applicable request.
- 3
Gather Required Attachments
Include the required dimensioned site plan, drawings and plans, and the application fee.
- 4
Sign And Submit
Have the applicant and, if different, the property owner sign and date the form. Submit it to the Planning Department at the Development Center.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the Nonconforming Use Application for?
- It requests Board of Zoning Appeals approval to enlarge or increase a nonconforming use, or change it to another nonconforming use.
- What should I include with the application?
- The checklist calls for a signed application, a dimensioned site plan from a property survey, dimensioned drawings and plans, and the application fee. It specifies one paper and one digital PDF copy of the plans.
- Do I need a notary for the Nonconforming Use Application?
- No. The application is signed without a notary. The applicant and, if different, the property owner sign and date the request and affidavit section.
- How do I submit the Nonconforming Use Application?
- Submit the complete application to the Planning Department at the Development Center, 1120 Monroe Ave NW. The form lists check or credit card payment options.