FAQs • Portland, MI • CivicEngage

I'm having a garage sale. Can I place signs?: Yes, signs may be placed per the following guidelines. Signs may be placed behind the sidewalks, off from the City right-of-way. You must have permission to place signs on another persons property. Signs may not be placed on utility poles. Signs may be put out the morning of the sale and removed at the end of the day. If your sale is on multiple days, your signs must be placed and removed each day. Signs must be of "normal" size; a typical sign from the hardware store is generally acceptable. Any large sign deemed a traffic hazard will be removed.

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Code, Planning and Zoning

1. I would like to construct a fence on my property, what do I need to know?: Fences that are essentially open (wrought iron, chain link, split rail, etc.) may up to 4' in height in the front yard and solid fences may not exceed 3' in height. Fences may be up to 6' in height in the back and side yard. Fences do not require a setback, however, it is always advised that homeowners obtain a survey to verify your property lines. Please consult City Ordinance section 42-303 for complete details.

2. I would like to construct a shed on my property?: Sheds must remain 3' from any property line and 10' from other structures. It may not consume more than 30% of your back yard. Accessory structures greater than 120 square feet must be permanently constructed on a concrete foundation. Additionally, there are limits on height and size based on lot size. For complete information please reference City Ordinance section 42-298.

3. Can I have a pool in my yard?: Pools must be located 10' from any lot line and may not be located in the front yard. Pools with side walls less than 48" must be fenced in. Pools 48" or taller may have the fence requirement waived based on the stability of the side wall. This is a discretionary decision of the Zoning Administrator. If a fence is deemed unnecessary, the ladder must be removed at all times when the pool is not in use. For complete information please reference Section 42-305 of the Code of Ordinances.

4. Why do I receive a notice to mow my yard?: Lawns must be mowed and kept maintained. If your lawn exceeds a length of 8", you will receive a notice to mow. If your lawn remains unmowed within 7 days of the notice, the City will mow the property and assess the property for the cost of mowing. For further information, please reference Sections 12-54 through 12-59 of the Code of Ordinances.

5. I'm having a garage sale. Can I place signs?: Yes, signs may be placed per the following guidelines. Signs may be placed behind the sidewalks, off from the City right-of-way. You must have permission to place signs on another persons property. Signs may not be placed on utility poles. Signs may be put out the morning of the sale and removed at the end of the day. If your sale is on multiple days, your signs must be placed and removed each day. Signs must be of "normal" size; a typical sign from the hardware store is generally acceptable. Any large sign deemed a traffic hazard will be removed.

6. Are vehicles allowed to be parked in the front yard?: City Ordinance permits a vehicle or trailer to be parked in the front yard of a property only for loading and unloading purposes or pursuant to a handicap parking permit. The front yard of a property is defined as that part of a lot, other than the driveway, between the curb or street and the front of the main structure on the lot.

7. Can I have an inoperable vehicle parked on my property.: No. City Ordinance prohibits outside storage on private property for more than 10 days any vehicle that does not meet the following conditions:
-An engine that runs
-Four wheels with four tires that are inflates
-A battery capable of starting and operating the vehicle
-Current license plates
-Otherwise road-worthy
An inoperative vehicle, may, however be stored in a completely enclosed building, such as the owner's garage. Covering the vehicle with a tarp or other cover is not an acceptable means of storage.