Resources

Selected Planning and Zoning Decisions: 2025 (August 2024-August 2025)

Published on September 24, 2025
This public policy brief summarizes important court cases with rulings issued between August 2024 and August 1, 2025, in relation to planning and zoning in Michigan.
The Short-Term Rental Economy in Michigan: Implications, Policy Options & Potential Solutions

Published on July 30, 2025
Implications, policy options, and potential solutions for the short-term rental economy in Michigan.
Land Use Planning & Zoning Certificate Courses Brochure

Published on July 14, 2025
MSU Extension offers a variety of land use certificate courses in various formats.
Sample #1B: Ordinance to create a planning commission

Published on July 11, 2025
Presents an example of an ordinance that creates a planning commission in Michigan.
County Government at Work

Published on July 2, 2025
County Government at Work provides a basic overview of the roles and responsibilities of the departments, agencies, and commissions that carry out the health, safety, and welfare functions of county governments.
Planning & Zoning for Solar Energy Systems: A Guide for Michigan Local Governments, 2025 Edition

Published on May 16, 2025
This free guide is intended to help communities across Michigan understand the siting of solar energy systems relative to local planning policies, zoning regulations, and state law.
Selected Planning and Zoning Decisions: 2024 (August 2023-August 2024)

Published on December 17, 2024
This public policy brief summarizes the important state and federal court cases, and Attorney General Opinions issues between August 1, 2023, and August 1, 2024.
First Impressions Tourism Assessment: City of Wayland Summary of Results

Published on December 12, 2024
FIT is a comprehensive community assessment conducted by unannounced visitors in a host community.
Investigating the Condition and Investment Needs of Michigan's Drinking Water Infrastructure: Policy and Financing Ramifications

Published on December 5, 2024
This project compiles water infrastructure finance data for Flint and 249 other cities across Michigan.
Summary Report for the Lansing Charter Commission: Literature Review on the Forms and Efficiency of Municipal Government

Published on October 18, 2024
This report provides a summary of research on municipal forms of government to assist the Lansing City Charter Review Commission in crafting the new charter.