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Planning Division
About
It all starts here. All developments from subdivisions and condominiums, commercial buildings, industrial developments, and more start with the Planning Division. Since the incorporation of the City, the Planning Division has overseen thousands of planning cases.
The Planning Division is responsible for assisting citizens and developers with all aspects of their development needs. This includes reviewing all plans and applications for proposed improvements or developments located within the City of Westland. During the development process, the Planning Division works to ensure the sound growth and development of the City of Westland.
The Planning Division provides expertise and information to elected officials, appointed boards and commissions, city departments, and citizens to assist in understanding and addressing key community issues and priorities. All developers that are interested in working within the City are highly encouraged to discuss their project with the Planning Division in order to more efficiently move projects along. To set up a pre-application meeting, please contact the Planning Division.
Responsibilities / Duties
- Reviewing and Planning Public Improvements
- Zoning Administration & Enforcement
- Site Plan and Special Land Use (PDF)
- Rezoning of Property (PDF)
- Land Divisions (PDF)
- Address Assignments
- Vacation and Abandonment of Streets, Alleys and Easements
- Updating and Maintaining the Zoning Ordinance (PDF) and Zoning Map
- Advising the City Council, Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals on land use matters
- Processes Applications for Tree Permit (PDF) and oversees the City of Westland Tree Preservation Ordinance
- Providing Information Regarding the Master Plan (PDF) and the Future Land Use Map
Guiding Principles
There are two guiding principles that the Planning Division utilizes when contouring a request or decision. Both of these principles focus on long term impacts of the choices we make today.
The Master Plan
This plan sets forth a basic framework for the development and future growth of Westland in the way that residents and community members aspire. It sets goals and guides decision making on land use, development standards, non-motorized transportation, housing, community facilities and more. Because community goals can and will change over time, the Master Plan is re-evaluated and updated every five years. The plan is always prepared with citizen input and visioning.
The Zoning Ordinance
This is a written regulation and law that defines how property in specific zones can be used. Zoning ordinances specify whether zones can be used for residential or commercial purposes, and may also regulate lot size, placement of building, bulk (or density) and the height of structures.
Making Payments
- Payment can be made in person at Westland City Hall, 36300 Warren Rd by cash, check or credit card.
- Checks can also be mailed, with proper documentation, to Westland City Hall, Attention: Planning & Building Department, 36300 Warren Rd, Westland, MI 48185. Please make sure you add your permit number or reference number on the memo of the check, if applicable.
- Payment may also be made online.