The Process

Step-by-Step: Submitting a Site Plan in Leoni Township

Review the Township’s Zoning Map and Zoning Ordinance (available on the Township website) to confirm the parcel is zoned for your proposed use.
If rezoning is required, prepare and submit a rezoning application, per the instructions in the zoning-ordinance change / amendment application packet.

According to the Township’s “Site Plan Review” guideline, site plan submission should include a full set of drawings/plans, legal description, project narrative, and other relevant documentation.
Typically the submittal package may include civil/site engineering plans, parking layouts, utilities, drainage, landscaping, signage, lighting, refuse/recycling location, access/egress, setbacks, easements, etc. (standard components of site-plan review under township ordinances) — although Leoni’s publicly posted “site-plan review” form doesn’t list every required drawing type, general zoning-ordinance, surveys, studies, and compliance is required.

Submit the completed site plan application (and rezoning application first, if needed) to the Township — through Zoning / Planning or Building Department
Include all required documentation and correctly completed forms as per the township’s procedures.

The Planning Commission reviews the site plan for ordinance compliance, appropriateness of site layout, compatibility with surrounding land uses, infrastructure/utility adequacy, access/traffic, drainage, landscaping, signage, etc.
If a rezoning was part of the submittal, the rezoning process may involve additional hearings, public notice, and must be approved before or alongside the site plan.

IF & ONLY IF the site plan is approved, the applicant then can apply for building permits through the Leoni Township Building Department.
The Building Department will require construction/building plans (sealed by licensed architect/engineer when applicable) before issuing permits.

Actual construction must proceed in accordance with the approved site plan. Failure to follow may result in revocation of approval. Standard practice in Michigan townships (and in other reference-ordinances) is that final occupancy or use won’t be granted until all site improvements and zoning conditions are met. (Note: this is normative; you should confirm directly with Leoni Township staff.)