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Table of Contents
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Welcome to the Village of Millington |
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Community Vision & Important Planning Documents |
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Village thoroughfare |
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Village of Millington Zoning Ordinance |
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Development Review Process |
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Pre-Application Meeting |
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Site Plan Review Process Requirements |
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Site Plans were submitted, now what? |
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Planning Commission Review and Action |
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Engineering Review, Building Plan Review and Permits |
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Other Types of Land Use Approvals |
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Special Land Use |
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Rezoning |
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Variance Review Process |
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Want to Build a New Home? |
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Industrial Park |
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Boards and Commissions |
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Contacts |
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Frequently Asked Questions |
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When do I need a Site Plan Review? |
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How long will the Site Plan Review process take? |
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Who will review my Site Plans? |
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Business Resources & Available Incentives |
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Industrial Park Covenants and Map |
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Welcome to the Village of Millington
Starting a business and/or developing commercial property is never as easy or straightforward as we think or hope it will be. Oftentimes, figuring out the village regulations, understanding the process, and getting the necessary approvals are viewed as some of the most daunting tasks. This guide was created to make the Village Zoning standards and processes easier to understand for developers and their site plan design teams. The first thing you need to figure out is, “Do I need a Site Plan?”
A site plan review is required under the following circumstances:
- As part of an application for a special use permit.
- Any change in use which requires construction of five (5) or more additional parking spaces.
- As part of an application for approval of a condominium development.
- Any other construction or moving of structures except:
- Single family and duplex residences on individual parcels and their accessory structures.
Visit the Village website - Ordinances Chapter 36 Section 1503.
- Non-residential accessory structures under five hundred (500) square feet
- Expansions of under five hundred (500) square feet to existing structures.
Please contact the Zoning Administrator at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for project specific requirements and approvals.
The Village of Millington Development Guide (VMDG) takes the confusion out of developing property in the Village of Millington. It explains the Village of Millington’s development processes and expectations. This document will provide an overview of the village’s processes, general timelines, contact information, and other relevant information. Links are provided throughout the document for easy access to the most up-to-date forms, applications, and more. All of the linked documents may also be found on the village website www/millingtonvillage.org. This document is not intended to include all the requirements of the village code, but to give you an overview of the process and timeline. Applicants and their development professionals should review the specific ordinances and talk to village staff about their projects. We are here to help you on the path to success!
Community Vision & Important Planning Documents
The Village of Millington is a small bedroom community (1.35 square miles) in Tuscola County that has an advantageous location along a major north-south highway, M-15, and in close proximity to major urban centers and regional tourist attractions. These include Birch Run to the West, Frankenmuth to the Northwest, Davison to the South, Flint to the Southwest and Lapeer to the Southeast. The Village is located on State trunkline M15 bringing an abundance of traffic thru town. The Village of Millington Downtown Development Authority (VMDDA) boundaries encompass the commercial areas of Main Street and M15 (State Street).
Village of Millington Master Plan and Downtown Plan
The Master Plan is one of the primary tools used by the Village of Millington. It is a broad-based policy document for the physical, economic, and social development of the Village as it relates to land use. It has a long-range perspective that provides a coordinated approach to making important decisions. Per the Planning Enabling Act, communities are required to review and update their master plans every 5 years. In 2021, the Village will approve the updated Master Plan, Parks and Recreation Plan and the VMDDA Plan will be updated in 2023. Prospective developers should review the Village’s current Master plan to see how their proposed project aligns with the goals of the plan. The current Master Plan is available on the village website www.millingtonvillage.org under Plans.
Village thoroughfare
The village’s main thoroughfare is State Street (or M15), which is maintained by the Village of Millington’s Department of Public Works for all routine maintenance and MDOT for repaving. Streetscape plans, proper landscaping requirements, and access control policies are all strategies which can enhance the experience of travelers along M-15, and possibly draw more tourists and new development.
Village of Millington Zoning Ordinance
The village’s Zoning Ordinance regulates land uses and development throughout the community. The zoning ordinance is available and searchable at www.millingtonvillage.org under Ordinances. For questions related to zoning, contact the Village Zoning Administrator, Jeff Bassett, at 989-737-9802 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Planning and zoning applications (Site Plan Review Applications, Special Land Use Requests, Zoning Board of Appeals Applications, Rezoning Requests, etc...) can be found on the Ordinance/Permits page of the village website www.millingtonvillage.org.
Sign Ordinance
The village allows for a variety of different signage types throughout the village. All signs require a permit prior to installation. Sign regulations can be found in Chapter 36, Section 500 of the Code of Ordinances.
Development Review Process
The development process does not need to be overly complicated or difficult, and the Village of Millington staff is available to walk you through the process. The following sections answer typical questions and outline the development review process, including estimated timelines, required applications and submittal materials, as well as a summary of the process following Planning Commission approval.
Pre-Application Meeting
Applicant submits a Site Plan Pre-Application.
Schedule Pre-Application Meeting with planning staff (optional).
Anyone wishing to develop a commercial property is encouraged to meet with the village’s planning site plan review committee prior to submitting an official application. Prospective applicants are encouraged to bring their design professionals and any conceptual drawing or plans to the pre-application meeting, as this may allow for more effective review and comments. During this meeting, staff will provide the prospective applicant with background information on the site, an overall opinion of the proposed idea, and an outline of the approval process and timeline. Contact the Village Clerk at 989-871-2702 to schedule a pre-application meeting.
Site Plan Review Process Requirements and Applications
Applicant submits complete Site Plan Review Application, hard & electronic copies of the site plans, and fees.
Plans are distributed to Planning staff, consultants and other necessary agencies for review.
To initiate the site plan review process, the following documents should be submitted to the Zoning Administrator or Village Clerk 21 days prior to the next scheduled Planning Commission meeting held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. Incomplete submissions will NOT be accepted.
- Application fees
- 9 copies of the following
- Site Plan, signed, sealed & dated
- PDF file of the plans
All plans must be submitted to the Zoning Administrator or Village Clerk 21 days prior to the date of the Planning Commission meeting in order to be placed on the agenda. Consult Chapter 36, Section X for a complete list of requirements for a site plan review and when it is required. Some projects may quality for administrative review.
Written reviews are provided to Village within 5 days from distribution and a copy of all comments and reviews are sent to applicant & Planning Commission Board Members.
Site Plans were submitted, now what?
Planning Commission will review the site plan and take action to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application.
After a complete application is submitted, the Zoning Administrator will distribute site plans to the following departments for review and comment: President, Engineering, Public Works, Police Chief, Fire Chief, Attorney, if the project is on M15, MDOT and if by any body of water (Millington Creek) the DEQ will also receive a copy. Departments are required to return feedback/comments to the Zoning Administrator within 5 days of distribution. The Zoning Administrator will provide a review letter and any feedback from the reviews and applicants will have an opportunity to make revisions prior to being placed on the Planning Commission agenda.
Planning Commission Review and Action
The Planning Commission may approve, approve with conditions, or deny a site plan. They may also require modifications to the proposed site plan or additional information prior to moving on to the next phase of the development process. Once the Planning Commission has approved the site plans, they will be issued an approved permit, applicants may move on to the Engineering Review or Tuscola County Building for Building Permits once any Planning Commission contingencies of approval have been met.
Engineering Review, Building Plan Review and Permits
Applicants will know prior to being placed on the Planning Commission agenda if their project will require full Engineering Review. Generally, the engineer reviews and approves the grading, clearing, stormwater management, and underground utilities. If Engineering review is not required, applicants may move directly on to Building Plan Review and Permitting.
Building Plan Review is required for nearly all projects and includes electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems. The building permits are obtained thru Tuscola County Building Codes. A checklist for the building permits for Tuscola County can be found at http://www.scmcci.org or call them at 989-672-3750.
Other Types of Land Use Approvals
While the site plan review process is the most common type of land use approval required in the Village of Millington, some projects may require additional approvals. All of the approvals listed in the following section require public hearings and notification to property owners within 300’ of the subject property. As such, applications for the land use approvals discussed below must be submitted at least 21 days prior to the Planning Commission meeting which is on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 6:00 p.m.
Special Land Use
There are some permitted land uses that require an additional layer of review and approval because of their particular and unique characteristics, they require special consideration in relation to the welfare of adjacent properties and to the community as a whole before the project may proceed (i.e. gas stations, drive-thru’s, day care facilities, etc..); these are called special land uses. Requirements for Special Use Permits are outlined in Chapter 36, Article XI of the Village of Millington Code of Ordinances. Special Use Permits require the approval of the Planning Commission. If the permit is denied it will go to the Zoning Board of Appeals (Village Council). Special Land Use Application can be found here. A flowchart of the Special Land Use permitting process can be found here.
Rezoning
The requirements and process for standard and conditional rezoning are identified in Chapter 36, Article XII of the Village of Millington Code of Ordinances. Property owners may initiate a rezoning process by submitting an application to the Zoning Administrator or Village Clerk. This will go to the Planning Commission for approval and then to the Village Council for approval. A Rezoning permit application can be found here. A flowchart of the Rezoning permitting process can be found here.
Variance Review Process
The Village of Millington allows for variances for building setback requirements, height and bulk requirements, parking requirements, landscaping requirements, and sign regulations. Variances are a request to deviate from current zoning requirements and are the result of a zoning permit being denied. They are not a change to zoning law, but a waiver for subject property only to deviate from the zoning ordinance. Completed applications are submitted to the Clerk’s office with applicable fees. Variance applications are sent to the Zoning Administrator and to the Zoning Board of Appeals and either denied or approved by the ZBA. More information on variances may be found in Chapter 36 Section 1308 in the Village of Millington Code of Ordinances. A Variance permit application can be found here. A flowchart of the Variance permitting process can be found here.
Want to Build a New Home??
If you have a lot within the Village limits and are looking to build a new home, this is the section for you. What you need to know...
If you are looking to build a new home in the village limits, you will first need to obtain a zoning permit (click here), which shall include a site plan with line setbacks and all dimensions.
For questions related to zoning, contact the Village Zoning Administrator, Jeff Bassett, at 989-737-9802 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
After approval of the zoning permit, you will need a Building Plan Review that is required for nearly all projects and includes electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems. The building permits are obtained thru Tuscola County Building Codes. A checklist for the building permits for Tuscola County can be found at http://www.scmcci.org or call them at 989-672-3750.
For fence permits, adding a storage shed, putting in a driveway or a pool, select the appropriate permit at https://www.millingtonvillage.org/index.php/ordinances-permits/zoning-permits, bring the filled out application to the Village Office with the appropriate fee or call the Zoning Administrator at 989-737-9802 for any questions you may have.
Industrial Park
Are you interested in a lot in the Village Industrial Park? There are park covenants that must be followed. Lots are $5,000, the sizes vary, but most are approximately 1.5 – 2 acres. The Tuscola County EDC handles all sales of our industrial park. Please contact Tuscola County EDC 989-673-2849 www.tuscolacountyedc.org. Industrial park map and covenants are found toward the end of this document.
Boards & Commissions
Designated Village Boards and Commissions will review your proposed project. Their roles in the development process are described below, including meeting dates and times. Meetings take place at the Village of Millington Municipal Chambers located at 8569 State Street, Millington, MI 48746, unless otherwise noted.
Planning Commission
- Considers site plans, special use permits, rezoning requests, and other land use applications.
- Creates and updates the Master Plan, Capital Improvement Plan, and reviews Zoning Ordinance amendments.
- Meetings are 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m.
Village Council
- Reviews rezoning requests and Zoning Ordinance and Village Code amendments
- Meetings are 2nd Monday of every month at 6:00 p.m.
Zoning Board of Appeals (Village Council)
- Interprets and grants variances from provisions of the Zoning Ordinance.
- Conducts hearings and resolves disputes regarding the decisions of the Zoning Administrator.
- Meetings are 2nd Monday of every month at 6:00 p.m.
Downtown Development Authority Board
- Manages ongoing maintenance, security and promotion of economic activity and continual operation of the downtown district.
- Meetings are 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.
Contacts
Zoning Administrator – Jeff Bassett 989-737-9802 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Planning Commission Chair – Ted Wager 989-225-2704 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Village Clerk – Kaylene Long 989-871-2702 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Downtown Development Authority – Pat Wood 989-205-9228 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tuscola County Building Codes 989-672-3750 www.scmcci.org
Tuscola County EDC 989-673-2849 www.tuscolacountyedc.org
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a Site Plan Review?
A site plan review is required under the following circumstances:
- As part of an application for a special use permit.
- Any change in use which requires construction of five (5) or more additional parking spaces.
- As part of an application for approval of a condominium development.
- Any other construction or moving of structures except:
- Single family and duplex residences on individual parcels and their accessory structures.
- Non-residential accessory structures under five hundred (500) square feet
- Expansions of under five hundred (500) square feet to existing structures.
Please contact the Zoning Administrator at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for project specific requirements and approvals.
How long will the Site Plan Review process take?
Typically, the entire planning approval process takes 21 – 30 days from the time it has been applied for. The timeline for the approval process of the site plan applications depends on how quickly the project architect or engineer can resolve any required revisions identified in the initial review. Generally, the village strives to ensure projects are ready for a favorable recommendation prior to appearing before the Planning Commission. Applicants are encouraged to schedule a pre-application meeting with village review committee and consultants to identify any issues or areas of concern prior to finalizing their site plan review application.
Who will review my Site Plans?
All projects are reviewed by multiple departments at the onset to assist you in determining the project’s feasibility and to reduce costly surprises in the (re)development process. Some projects may also require review by the village attorney, fire or police chief, MDOT or DEQ.
Can I request a Special Meeting if my schedule does not allow me to meet on day of PC meeting?
Yes, you may schedule a Special Meeting of the Planning Commission, however, there is an additional fee as set by resolution of the Village Council. Please see the Schedule of Fees.
Business Resources & Available Incentives
Tuscola County EDC - https://www.tuscolacounty.org/edc/
Phone : (989) 673-2849
Executive Director Steve Erickson - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Communications Director James McLoskey - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Office Manager Glen Roth - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
MEDC –https://www.michiganbusiness.org/
Village of Millington Industrial Park
Industrial park lots are $5000 each. They will require water & sewer hookup, please see the current fee schedule for current rates.
Why join the Industrial Park?
- The Village works with the Tuscola County EDC to assist with GAP Funding.
- There are tax abatements for Industrial Development.
- Class A Roadway
- Three Phase Electric
- Pro-growth Village Council
- Excellent Water
- Excellent Fire Protection
- Competitive Lot Prices
- Modern Sewer System
- Excellent Police Protection
Come Grow with us!
Protective Covenants – Industrial Park
- Types of building materials: The buildings in a certified industrial park shall be attractive and of the appropriate materials for the type of industry for which it is intended. To improve the park, the buildings should be finished in materials such as brick, block or wood on sides that face an exterior or interior road. Wood frame buildings would not be permitted due to the possibility of fire, which would threaten the other tenants of the park. The owner/developer will retain the right to review all site and building plans prior to the start of construction so that the types of building materials planned to be used can be evaluated and to ensure that all other covenants will be adhered to.
- Landscaping: All lots shall be seeded or sodded, and shrubs and trees planted to maintain a park like atmosphere. The extent to which this is controlled is up to the owner/developer.
- Screened outdoor storage: Whenever possible, all activities of a business should be carried on within the confines of the building. In those instances when outside storage is a necessity, all items stored outdoors should be behind an obscuring wall or fence which completely screens the items from the view of other tenants and those visiting the park.
- Location of loading docks: Truck or rail docks shall always be located at the side or rear of the building. When loading/unloading occurs at the side of a building, an obscuring wall shall be constructed or trees and shrubs plants, to prevent visibility from the street.
- Setback specifications: Front setbacks must be at least 30 feet from the road and side and rear. Setbacks must be at least 10 feet from the neighboring property line. A visitor parking area may be placed in the front setback if desired. No other activities may take place in the front setback area.
- Signs controlled: Signs advertising the person, firm, company or corporation operating the use conducted on the lot of the products produced there shall be permitted, either of a freestanding nature or attached to the building except that the signs cannot exceed the height of the building and shall conform to all front, side and rear yard requirements. Outdoor advertising, billboards or flashing lights are not permitted.
The above must be agreed to by any purchases of Industrial Park property in addition to the zoning ordinance requirements previously noted. Adopted 12/09/91
Purchaser agrees to the above: (Purchaser to sign next to appropriate answer)
Yes_______________________________ No______________________________________
Copy of signed covenants will be filed with the Village Clerk.
Schedule of Fees Refer to the schedule of fees for current costs on site plans, variances, rezoning, sheds or fence permits that you may need to develop your property.
