Property or business owner who wishes to modify existing property in a way that is not addressed in the zoning ordinance, can apply for a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).  Both the application and fee must be submitted a minimum of 30 days in advance of a ZBA meeting.  The advance notice provides adequate time for the city to publish the required legal notices. 

When a variance application is received by the city, notices are sent to all property owners and occupants within 300 feet of the subject property. The ZBA will consider the request with emphasis on the applicant demonstrating a Practical Difficulty (for a non-use or dimensional variance) or Undue Hardship (for a use variance).  The tests for determining a practical difficulty or undue hardship are on the ZBA application and in the city’s zoning ordinance.

This process includes a public hearing, an open forum, conducted by the ZBA. Property owners are encouraged to have a thorough discussion with the City's Planning staff before a public hearing is scheduled. The purpose of the public hearing is to provide interested parties the opportunity to voice concerns about the proposed project.  The applicant also has an opportunity to discuss the details of the proposal and reasons why the variance is requested. 

For more information about these processes, standards, and required application materials, please review the City's comprehensive Guide to Development. 

To apply for a Variance (dimension or use), or any other Construction & Development process, please see our Applications/Permit page and look for the Zoning Board of Appeals Application Package.

Planning Staff 

The City's provides Planning & Zoning services through the use of a Planning Consultant. Wixom's Planning team offers review meetings for applicants Mondays and Wednesdays by appointment, and are also available to answer any questions you may have. Please call (248) 624-0880, or reach out via e-mail at Planningadmin@wixomgov.org.