Prior to the construction, physical development or razing of a proposed new or expanded use, structure or building, or the moving of any structure, or the restoration and structural improvement (other than normal repairs and minor improvements) of any existing use or structure, or the conversion from one use to any other use, a zoning permit shall first be obtained from the township. An application for a required zoning permit must be made to the Zoning Administrator.
(A) Contents of application. Among the information to be supplied by the applicant and that shall constitute the application package for a zoning permit, the following shall be included:
(1) Name and address of applicant or applicants;
(2) Location, shape, area and dimension of the lot, and of the proposed structure or improvement (shown on a site plan);
(3) Description of proposed use and of the building (dwelling, structure, barn, garage and the like), structure or improvement;
(4) The proposed number of sleeping rooms, dwelling units, occupants, employees, customers and other users;
(5) The yard, open space and parking space dimensions (as shown on a site plan);
(6) A site plan, where required; and
(7) In the case where the current use is commercial or industrial, not publicly-sewered and the application is to change, convert, add or expand such commercial or industrial use, a statement from the county’s Health Department must be submitted to the township certifying that the present on-site septic disposal system is adequate to meet the needs of the changed, converted, added or expanded use after development.
(B) Fee. A fee or fees as may be set by the Township Board shall accompany any plans or applications in order to defray the cost of administration and inspection.
(C) General procedural steps.
(1) Upon submission of an application, the Zoning Administrator:
(a) Reviews the application package:
1. To make sure that it is the proper application for the zoning action requested;
2. To see that all required information is submitted; and
3. To determine conformance with zoning regulations, unless waived by variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
(b) Takes one or more of the following preliminary actions:
1. Requests from the applicant that any omitted or pertinent and necessary information now be submitted;
2. Forwards the matter to the appropriate township commission or board for any applicable zoning review or approval; and
3. Makes a site inspection to verify accuracy of the application and to gather additional information.
(2) Upon approval of a zoning action required by a township body and of any additional requirements or conditions that may be needed, the Zoning Administrator shall approve a zoning permit, one copy of the zoning permit shall be returned to the owner or applicant. A performance bond or other security may be required to ensure compliance with any imposed or proposed public improvements, requirements, specifications and conditions.
(D) Denial of zoning permit. If the application for a zoning permit is denied by the Zoning Administrator, the reason or cause for denial shall be stated in writing.
(E) Validity. A zoning permit shall be valid for one year. A valid zoning permit is eligible for one additional one-year extension granted by the Zoning Administrator as a reasonable length of time within which to begin construction.
(F) Inspection. At least one site inspection by the Zoning Administrator must be held before development.
(Ord. passed 7-12-2012, § 14.4)