Zoning Code Survey

Nearly 300 people responded to the zoning code survey and close to 60% of them identified as residents of the City of Harbor Springs. A summary of the survey’s key findings:

1. Over 50% of respondents think 3 floors is a reasonable maximum height limit for downtown buildings, while about 21% think a reasonable height limit should be 2 floors or less.
2. Respondents think modest and smaller homes (between 750 sq ft and 2,000 sq ft) are more appropriate for Harbor Springs than large homes (greater than 5,000 sq ft).
3. Respondents would like to see Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and tiny homes reviewed administratively, while duplexes, triplexes, and mansions reviewed at the Planning Commission.
4. Over 4/5 of respondents think home occupations should not require any review, but home occupations with customer traffic or employees who don’t live in the home should go to the Planning Commission.
5. The vast majority of respondents think there should be fewer than 10 zoning districts in the City.

In general, the survey responses align with changes the City made in Ordinance 439, which was repealed by the voters on November 5.  Some notable differences include:

1. Residents are open to smaller homes than allowed in Ordinance 439.
2. Residents would like to consider maximum size limits for homes.
3. Residents would like duplexes to be reviewed at the Planning Commission level.

You can review the survey results here: https://www.cityofharborsprings.com/documents/community-feedback/

Thank you for your participation.

(Updated December 7, 2024).