Grand Rapids, MI · Kent County
Use Variance Application
Property owners and applicants use this application to ask Grand Rapids to allow a property use that is not permitted in its zoning district.
What this form is
The application asks the Board of Zoning Appeals to consider a use that would not otherwise be allowed in the property's zone district. Applicants provide property, applicant, owner, and project information, explain the requested variance, and respond to five review standards. The city requires a complete application package, including signed forms, plans, and neighborhood outreach information, for review; the Board holds a public hearing.
Who needs it
Applicants with a legal interest in a Grand Rapids property may use this form to request a use variance; if the applicant is not the owner, the owner must also sign.
How to submit it
Submit the complete application to the Planning Department at the Development Center, 1120 Monroe Avenue NW. The form lists weekday submission hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and a FY2027 fee of $2,640.
About notarization
This document is signed and dated without a notary; the applicant and, if different, the property owner sign the application and affidavit statements.
How to submit this form
- 1
Download The Application
Download the Use Variance Application and review its instructions and checklist.
- 2
Complete And Sign The Form
Fill in the property, applicant, owner, and project information, respond to the review standards, and obtain the required signatures.
- 3
Gather Required Attachments
Prepare the required plans and drawings and include neighborhood outreach information; attach additional sheets if needed.
- 4
Submit To The Planning Department
Submit the complete application package to the Planning Department at the Development Center, 1120 Monroe Avenue NW.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a notary for the Use Variance Application?
- No. The applicant signs and dates the application; if the applicant is not the property owner, the owner also signs and dates it. No notary block is provided.
- How do I submit the Use Variance Application?
- Submit a complete application package to the Planning Department at the Development Center, 1120 Monroe Avenue NW. The form lists weekday submission hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- What attachments are required with the application?
- The checklist requires a signed application, responses to the review standards, a dimensioned site plan, dimensioned drawings and plans, and neighborhood outreach information. Optional supporting materials include photographs and letters of support.
- What does the Board of Zoning Appeals review?
- The Board reviews whether the proposed use variance meets the listed standards, including uniqueness, not being self-created, no substantial detriment, reasonable use, and consistency with the Master Plan and Zoning Ordinance.