Building & Zoning

Information about building permits, zoning regulations, land division, and construction requirements in Colfax Township.

📋 Township Zoning Policy

Important: Colfax Township does NOT have its own zoning ordinance; however, building permits are still required and must be obtained from the Oceana County Building Department in Hart.

There IS zoning along the Pere Marquette River that is handled by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Questions about permit requirements? Contact Supervisor David Leonard for guidance.

🏗️ Required Permits

🏠 Building Permits

Authority: Oceana County Building Department

Phone: (231) 873-5355

Location: Hart, MI

Website: oceana.mi.us/departments/building-department

Required for: New construction, additions, renovations, garages, decks

🚰 Well & Septic Permits

Authority: District Health Department #10

Phone: (231) 873-2193

Website: dhd10.org

Required for: Well installation, septic system installation or repair

Note: Permits must be obtained before installation

🏞️ Natural River Zoning

Authority: Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Area: Properties along Pere Marquette River

Website: michigan.gov/dnr

Regulations: Special zoning restrictions apply to preserve natural river corridor

🗺️ Land Division

Dividing Land in Colfax Township

To divide a tract of land, you must complete a Land Division Application with the Township Assessor.

📋 Land Division Requirements

Contact: Barbie Eaton, MAAO - Township Assessor

Phone: (888) 714-9288

Required Documentation:

  • Current parcel description
  • Resulting descriptions after division
  • Land division application form
  • Survey documentation (if required)

Process: Applications reviewed for compliance with state land division regulations

❓ Questions & Guidance

📞 Township Supervisor

Contact: David Leonard - Township Supervisor

Phone: Contact through township office

Email: Contact through township office

Available for: Questions about permit requirements, zoning regulations, and building code compliance

Recommendation: Contact the supervisor if you're unsure about permit requirements for your project

💡 Helpful Tips

🔍 Before You Build

  • Contact the supervisor if unsure about requirements
  • Check if your property is near Pere Marquette River
  • Verify property lines and setbacks
  • Contact utilities for line marking (MISSDIG 811)

📋 Permit Process

  • Building permits: Oceana County Building Department
  • Well/septic permits: DHD10 before installation
  • River zoning: Check DNR requirements first
  • Land division: Township Assessor approval required