Zoning Board of Appeals

The ZBA serves is the first step to appeal a decision, seek a variance from an ordinance, or to request an interpretation of the Zoning Map. 

When a point of controversy cannot be resolved with the ZBA, the next step is Circuit Court. No local body, including the City Council, can override a decision of the ZBA as long as it concerns an action within their authority.

The ZBA has the power to: 

  • authorize variances for height, area, size of structure, size of yard, open spaces, off-street parking and loading requirements or other dimensional requirements. 

Local ordinance prohibits the granting of "use" variances. Variances should only be granted when specific criteria are met.

Zoning Map


Zoning Map (PDF)

Regular Meetings
  • 7 p.m.
  • The 2nd Monday of every month
  • City Hall
    259 Kent Street
    Council Chambers
    Portland, MI 48875 
  1. 2023 Meeting Minutes

2023 Meeting Documents

  1. 2022 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2021 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2020 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2019 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2018 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2017 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2016 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2015 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2014 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2013 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2012 Meeting Minutes
  1. 2011 Meeting Minutes

Members

Name Title Address Phone
James E. Barnes Council Liaison 763 Ionia Rd. 517-647-3211
Jayne Graham Vice Chair 625 Kent St. 517-647-2547
Kathy Parsons Chair 310 Kent St. 517-647-4177
Joe Fedewa   900 Cherrywood Circle 517-647-6606
Rachelle Breeden Secretary 431 Academy St. 517-647-3211