(a)

The purposes of this division are to require the development of dwelling units in multiple-family residential districts that are visitable, usable, and safe for occupancy by persons with disabilities and to accommodate a wide range of individual preferences and functional abilities while not significantly impacting housing costs and affordability.

(b)

This division shall apply to the new construction of all multifamily residential dwellings in all residential development projects in the city's multiple family residential districts constructed under the Michigan Building Code and to townhouse and duplex development projects with greater than ten dwelling units constructed under the Michigan Residential Code, in the aggregate of all phases.

(Ord. No. 1385, 11-9-2016)

(a)

Individuals with mobility difficulties may require special accommodations to their homes to allow for continued independent living. This chapter is reasonably necessary to serve this population as well as those anticipating a disability by enhancing opportunities for the full life cycle use of housing without regard to the physical abilities or disabilities of a home's occupants or guests.

(b)

There has been a significant increase, locally, of persons in need of accommodations in their housing related to Michigan State University. Michigan State University reports 1,592 students (up four percent over last year) with permanent disabilities that received services from Michigan State University's Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (RCPD) with 111 additional receiving services for temporary conditions. Fifty students reported an open case with Michigan Rehabilitation Services while five reported working with the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons.

(c)

The RCPD staff assessed and registered 411 new students with permanent disabilities via the Academic Orientation Program and ongoing self-identification activities which evidences a trend for the increased need of accommodations for housing. The disability counts by major characteristic (permanent disabilities only) and the relationship to the previous year's count were reported to be as follows:

(1)

Deaf/hard of hearing—57 (up 14% from last year)

(2)

Blindness/visual impairment—45 (down 2% from last year)

(3)

Mobility—142 (up 14%)

(4)

Brain injury—70 (up 4%)

(5)

Learning disability—783 (up 2%)

(6)

Psychiatric—570 (up 16%)

(7)

Chronic health—349 (up 7%)

(8)

Autism spectrum—57 (up 14%)

(9)

Other—44 (up 25%)

(10)

Multiple—426 (up 12%)

(d)

Michigan State University reported 163 employees (up 19 percent over last year) with active permanent disabilities were current with the RCPD; 40 were newly registered this year with a net population increase of 26 given retirements and other transitions which is further evidence of a trend for the increased need in housing accommodations. Disability counts by major characteristic (permanent disabilities only) and the relationship to the previous year's count were reported to be as follows:

(1)

Deaf/hard of hearing—23 (up 44% over last year)

(2)

Blindness/visual impairment—16 (down 6%)

(3)

Mobility—67 (up 14%)

(4)

Brain injury—14 (up 56%)

(5)

Learning disability—11 (no change)

(6)

Psychiatric—24 (up 20%)

(7)

Chronic health—56 (up 22%)

(8)

Autism spectrum—1 (no change)

(9)

Other—13 (up 100%)

(10)

Multiple—31 (up 29%)

(e)

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 14.9 percent of U.S. residents were 65 and older in 2015, while 3.8 percent were 80 and older. By 2050 these percentages are projected to increase to approximately 22 percent and eight percent respectively. In that same period overall population is projected to increase 24 percent resulting in a near doubling of the 65 and older population. These demographic trends will increase the demand for senior housing with accommodations.

(Ord. No. 1385, 11-9-2016)

Editor's note— Ord. No. 1543, adopted July 15, 2025, in effect repealed § 50-363, which pertained to definitions and derived from Ord. No. 1385, adopted November 9, 2016, by moving the definitions previously set out therein to §§ 50-5—50-9.

(a)

The developer of residential dwelling/sleeping units that are subject to this division shall design and construct, at a minimum, clear width of 32 inches for all door openings and must always meet the minimum Michigan Building Code/Michigan Residential Code.

(b)

The developer of residential dwellings that are subject to this division shall design and construct all hallways connecting residential units to be a minimum clear width of 64 inches.

(c)

Where there are four or more dwelling/sleeping units intended to be occupied as a residence in a single structure, except for Type A dwelling/sleeping units, every dwelling/sleeping unit shall be a Type B dwelling unit.

Exception: Structures without elevator service and unable to be made accessible need not comply.

(d)

Where ten or more dwelling units are to be constructed, in the aggregate, regardless of phasing, a minimum of five percent of the residential units to be constructed shall be Type A dwelling units. This minimum percentage requirement shall be met regardless of the number of residential units constructed in excess of the number of units that are evenly divisible by 20. There must be at least one Type A dwelling unit on each residential floor of a building containing multiple floors of residential units where there are ten or more residential units on that floor.

(e)

Where a Type A dwelling unit is constructed within a building as required by this section, there shall be, at a minimum, an exterior accessible route that is not less than 64 inches wide having a maximum slope of one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal.

(f)

The following shall be installed unless an exemption of this universal design feature is granted under section 50-365:

(1)

Rocker light switches and controls.

(2)

Lever operated door hardware.

(3)

Flooring throughout the residential dwelling unit consistent with ANSI A117.1, Chapter 10.

(4)

The installation of all receptacle outlets, lighting controls and environmental controls throughout the balance of the residential dwelling unit must comply with ANSI A117.1, Chapter 10 or applicable provisions of the Michigan Electrical Code.

(5)

Outlets at the bottom and top of any stairs to facilitate the use of a chair lift.

(Ord. No. 1385, 11-9-2016)

(a)

A developer may apply to the building official for an exemption from one or more of the universal design requirements required to be constructed under this chapter. The building official shall establish policies and procedures that provide for building official review of requests for exemptions under this section. The policies and procedures shall require the building official to provide a written decision within ten calendar days of the filing of a completed request for the exemption. A copy of the decision shall be delivered to the developer personally or sent to him or her by ordinary mail. Requests for exemptions shall be submitted on a form prescribed by the building official.

(b)

The building official shall approve a request for an exemption of a universal design requirement if the building official finds either one or more of the following:

(1)

That the developer has demonstrated that compliance with the requirement to meet the universal design standards under this chapter would create an undue hardship due to site constraints.

(2)

That the developer has demonstrated that compliance with the requirement to meet the universal design standards under this chapter would result in an unreasonable delay in construction or would result in unreasonable costs.

(3)

An alternate number or location of Type A dwelling units will satisfy the intent of this section.

(4)

That the developer has demonstrated that compliance with the requirement to meet the universal design requirements under this chapter would constitute a regulatory taking.

(c)

Any person aggrieved by the building official's decision under this section may appeal the decision to the zoning board of appeals. The appeal shall be filed, processed, and heard in the manner set forth in division 2 of article II of chapter 50 of the Code. The board shall consider the standards set forth herein for any appeals of a decision under this section and the opinion and report of the building official. Any appeals regarding other interpretations made by the planning and zoning official or requests for variances shall be decided by the zoning board of appeals under the usual procedures in the manner set forth in division 2 of article II of chapter 50 of the Code.

(Ord. No. 1385, 11-9-2016)

(a)

The RM-8 residential district is a broad and flexible zoning classification which permits a variety of housing at different densities and limited office use. It establishes a base level of development at a relatively low density and other requirements which, at a minimum, will preserve the attractiveness, desirability, and privacy of residential neighborhoods. It encourages the planning and development of larger parcels by permitting different types of housing at different densities within the site and limited amounts of office use to buffer residential uses from major streets. It also provides density bonuses, reductions in lot sizes and setbacks and other flexibility in the base standards, when the objectives below and certain other specified standards are met, to encourage innovative design. The ultimate goal of the district is to increase the amount and variety of housing opportunities in the city while protecting the interests of residents and the overall attractiveness of the city.

(b)

It is also the purpose of the district to achieve the following objectives:

(1)

To have land developed in a planned and orderly manner by requiring a minimum site size and by providing density bonuses as an incentive to accumulate larger parcels, at one time or in phases, in accordance with an overall site plan.

(2)

To have a variety of housing opportunities available within the city by encouraging a range of different housing types and innovative designs.

(3)

To encourage more affordable housing by permitting clustered and innovative site designs and by providing for higher densities and limited office use within the development.

(4)

To control congestion and safety along public streets and to provide safe and convenient access by limiting access to major streets, by requiring improved facilities for pedestrians, bicycles, and motor vehicles, and by requiring linkages to neighboring developments and public facilities.

(5)

To protect the privacy of residents and to minimize noise, congestion, and nuisance impacts by regulating the size and placement of buildings and parking facilities and by requiring buffers consisting of setbacks and landscape screens between uses and along streets.

(6)

To maintain an attractive community appearance and to provide a desirable living environment for residents by preserving natural features, particularly stands of mature trees, wetlands and floodplains, and by requiring open space and recreational facilities.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-2; Ord. No. 998, 6-25-2002)

Uses permitted in the RM-8 district are as follows:

(1)

Permitted principal uses.

a.

Foster family homes, foster family group homes, and family day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(1).

(2)

Permitted principal uses, subject to site plan approval as provided for in section 50-36 of this chapter:

a.

Multiple-family dwellings containing four or fewer bedrooms per dwelling unit, except hotels and motels.

b.

Single-family dwellings.

c.

Townhouse dwellings.

d.

Two-family dwellings.

(3)

Permitted principal uses, subject to an approved special use permit as provided for by article II, division 3, of this chapter, when developed in conjunction with a residential development as permitted in subsection (1) of this section:

a.

Child care centers, day care centers, and group day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(2).

b.

Extended care/nursing facilities including those licensed for the sale of alcoholic beverages or alcoholic liquor.

c.

Golf courses or country clubs.

d.

Household pet daycare as defined in section 50-7 which is provided in conjunction with an owner-occupied residential property.

e.

Offices where the overall site area is ten acres or more in size.

f.

Religious institutions.

g.

Restaurants or banquet facilities, including those licensed for the sale of alcoholic beverages or alcoholic liquor, which are provided in conjunction with a golf course, country club, or extended care/nursing facility.

(4)

Permitted accessory uses, when provided in conjunction with the principal uses and the appropriate approvals above:

a.

Parking spaces, parking lots, garages, carports, and driveways.

b.

Recreational facilities and structures provided for the exclusive use of residents of the development and their guests.

c.

Storage buildings and areas for equipment necessary to maintain the development.

d.

One sales, rental, or management office for the development, when such office is located in a building intended to be used for one of the principal uses in subsection (1) of this section, or in a clubhouse or similar structure.

e.

Other facilities or structures provided for the exclusive use and convenience of residents of the development, such as laundries and storage rooms.

f.

Class A home occupations.

g.

Facilities and services provided within a principal building primarily for the use, care and convenience of residents, such as medical or dental offices, barber and beauty services, banking facilities and gift shops.

h.

Facilities and structures which are customarily provided in conjunction with a golf course or country club including, but not limited to, a club house, pro shop, starter shed, snack shop, driving range, practice putting and chipping greens, and storage buildings for carts or maintenance equipment.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-3; Ord. No. 949, 6-18-2002; Ord. No. 998, 6-25-2002; Ord. No. 1061, 2-7-2006; Ord. No. 1285, 1-15-2013; Ord. No. 1347-A, 2-2-2016; Ord. No. 1404, 5-9-2017; Ord. No. 1543, 7-15-2025)

The following standards must be complied with by a development within the RM-8 residential district.

(1)

Minimum site area. The site must have a contiguous area of at least five acres, exclusive of existing and intended rights-of-way along abutting public streets. The site may consist of two or more contiguous parcels of land which shall be developed by a single owner or a group of owners acting jointly in accordance with an approved site plan which encompasses the entire site.

(2)

Base residential density. The base number of residential units permitted on a site shall be determined by dividing the total site area by the minimum site area per unit standards from the following schedule:

For the purposes of this calculation, total site area shall not include any portion of the site which is used for offices or a golf course or country club, including their related parking areas, accessory uses and required yard areas. Where the type of unit to be built is not known or stipulated at the time of site plan review, as may be the case with subdivided building lots, each unknown unit shall be assumed to be a three-bedroom unit in determining the number of units permitted.

(3)

Density bonuses for larger sites. Density bonuses may be given for sites of five acres or more where the proposed development would be consistent with the purpose of this district and substantially contribute to achieving one or more of its objectives as stated in section 50-381. If approved, the bonuses shall be in the form of percentage reductions in the minimum site area required for each unit stated in subsection (2) of this section, as shown in the following schedule:

If bonuses are approved, the total number of units permitted shall be determined by dividing the total site area, as defined in subsection (3) of this section, by the reduced site area per unit standard.

(4)

Phased development; density of individual elements. A site within this district may be planned and developed by a single owner or developer, or it may be developed in phases by two or more owners or developers in accordance with an overall site plan for the entire site. Individual elements of the overall site plan may be designed and developed at different densities as long as the total number of dwelling units on the entire site complies with the overall density limit established in subsections (2) and (3) of this section.

(5)

Maximum office use. The gross floor area devoted to office use, exclusive of accessory office use as permitted in section 50-382(3)d, shall not exceed a figure equal to ten percent of the gross floor area of all principal buildings on the site.

(6)

Minimum residential lot area. Where part or all of the site is subdivided into separate building lots for single-family detached units or for similar units which abut or are attached with party walls, such as duplexes and townhouses, minimum lot areas shall be provided according to the following schedule.

(7)

Maximum building height. The maximum permitted height of buildings shall be determined according to the following schedule:

a.

Principal residential buildings.

b.

Office buildings.

c.

Accessory buildings.

(8)

Maximum building and ground coverage.

a.

The maximum building and ground coverage ratios for the entire site shall be 25 percent and 40 percent, respectively. These ratios may be increased to 30 percent and 45 percent where the site is 20 acres or larger in size or where no buildings are more than 2½ stories in height. For the purpose of this district, spaces occupied by recreational facilities provided for the use of residents and their guests, up to a total of five percent of the site, shall not be counted as coverage. Such facilities may include freestanding recreational structures, such as pools and clubhouses, and separate improved recreational surfaces, such as basketball and shuffleboard courts.

b.

For subdivided building lots within the development, the maximum building and ground coverage ratios shall be 50 percent and 60 percent, respectively. If the amount of building and ground coverage on subdivided lots is not known nor otherwise stipulated at the time of site plan review, the coverage ratios for the entire site shall be calculated by assuming that each lot is developed to the maximum permissible standards.

(9)

General setback requirements. The basic minimum setback requirements for principal and accessory buildings and parking spaces and parking lots are as follows:

(10)

Setback reductions.

a.

The basic setback standards specified in subsections (9)a, b, d, and e of this section may be reduced by up to 50 percent but in no case to less than 20 feet, where unique site characteristics, compatible design and scale, or landscaping or design features in excess of the requirements in subsection (15) of this section will achieve the objectives in section 50-381 and accomplish the same purposes for which the setbacks are intended. These purposes are:

1.

Ensuring reasonable privacy for residents and neighbors of the development;

2.

Protecting residents and neighbors from noise, shadowing, and other nuisance impacts;

3.

Maintaining adequate visibility for safety along streets and sidewalks; and

4.

Maintaining an attractive appearance of the development from abutting properties and public streets.

Such characteristics or features may include, but would not be limited to: significant slopes which effectively reduce the apparent size of buildings and screen parking areas from view; dense buffers of mature trees and other plant materials along exterior property lines; significant landscape treatments which include earth berms, fences, or walls at least three feet in height in addition to a variety of plant materials; buildings which are designed and located to maximize privacy and minimize noise, shadowing, and other impacts between adjacent properties; and buildings which are designed at a scale which is comparable to and compatible with surrounding uses.

b.

The setback requirements for parking facilities located along an exterior property line may be waived, in whole or in part, where the owners of two adjacent properties agree in writing to develop shared access and parking facilities to serve both properties. If site plans for both properties are not submitted simultaneously, each site plan must clearly show the parking and access facilities to be shared, along with required details and specifications. The shared facilities may be constructed in phases, provided that, each phase is readily accessible and is constructed and maintained according to required specifications.

(11)

Setback requirements for interior lots. Buildings and parking spaces on subdivided lots within the development shall meet the standards in subsection (9) of this section. There shall be no other setback requirements from the lot lines on such lots.

(12)

Minimum distance between buildings. Two buildings shall be located no closer to one another than a distance equal to the height of the taller one, except that this distance may be reduced by up to 50 percent if the buildings are designed and located to maintain privacy between neighbors and to minimize noise, shadowing, and other nuisance and appearance impacts on residents. In no case shall two detached buildings be located closer than ten feet apart.

(13)

Minimum horizontal distance between building wings. The angle between two wings of one building shall not be less than 90 degrees. In instances where two wings of the same building face each other, such as in a U-shaped building, the wings must be separated according to the standards in subsection (12) of this section.

(14)

Required parking.

a.

Parking facilities shall be provided in accordance with article VIII of this chapter, except that the required number of spaces for an office use which is developed in conjunction with a residential development, as provided in section 50-382(2), may be waived in whole or in part. The waiver may be granted when it is determined that there would be sufficient numbers of conveniently located spaces available for customers and employees of the office use during its hours of operation. Restricted hours of operation may be stated as a condition of the special use permit for the office use to ensure that sufficient parking will be available to residents of the development.

b.

Parking facilities may be allowed within or under any building; otherwise, parking spaces not on a driveway shall be located no closer than ten feet to any building.

(15)

Open space and recreation.

a.

A minimum of 20 percent of the total site, exclusive of required setbacks, shall be open space held for the use and enjoyment of residents of the development. Private yards on subdivided lots, preserved woodlots and wetlands, playgrounds, and the space occupied by freestanding recreational facilities and buildings may be counted as open space. Where land is to be dedicated as open space within subdivisions or condominium developments, appropriate easements or land dedication documents shall accompany the application for approval.

b.

A variety of playground equipment or other improved recreational areas or facilities shall be provided in accordance with the anticipated interests of the expected occupants of the development.

(16)

Perimeter landscaping. Trees of a type and size specified in section 48-32 of the City Code shall be planted no more than 60 feet apart within the right-of-way along all public streets abutting or within the development. A variety of trees and shrubbery shall be planted between buildings, parking areas, or other improved facilities and all exterior boundaries of the development. These requirements may be modified or waived where there are existing trees or shrubbery to be retained.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-4; Ord. No. 998, 6-25-2002; Ord. No. 1087, pt. III, 12-21-2004; Ord. No. 1543, 7-15-2025)

A development in the RM-8 residential district shall substantially conform to the following design principles and standards.

(1)

Residential layout.

a.

The placement and concentration of structures and uses on the site shall be arranged to minimize congestion on the site and contrasts in the intensity of activities between abutting land uses.

b.

The placement, bulk, and design of structures and uses shall be arranged to minimize contrasts in scale between abutting uses and exposure to nuisance factors, such as noise and glare, and to maximize privacy for residents and neighbors.

c.

Each development shall contain a reasonable mixture of two or more of the principal uses as permitted in section 50-382(1), unless the development is so small that a mixture would be impractical or if the type of dwelling unit proposed would complement and expand the range of existing housing opportunities available in the surrounding neighborhood.

d.

The type and mixture of principal uses present shall be appropriate for the size, character and location of the site, compatible with adjacent uses and consistent with the objectives of the comprehensive plan.

(2)

Office use.

a.

The inclusion of an office use in a residential development shall be permitted only if the benefits of the office use to residents, neighbors, and the city at large outweigh any potential interference or disruption because of noise, traffic, physical activity, or other attributes of the office use.

b.

The nature, placement, and design of office use on the site shall be arranged to minimize traffic and nuisance impacts on residents and neighbors of the development.

c.

Offices may be located within structures used predominantly for residential purposes or in separate structures. If a separate structure is provided for office use, it must be architecturally consistent with other structures on the site and with the overall residential image of the property.

(3)

Golf courses and country clubs.

a.

Principal vehicular access to the facility shall be arranged to minimize adverse impacts on surrounding residential dwellings and pedestrian and bicycle safety.

b.

Buildings and parking areas shall be sufficiently set back and screened to maintain privacy for surrounding residential dwellings.

c.

Structures provided in conjunction with the course must be architecturally compatible with other structures on the site and with the overall design of the development.

d.

Individual golf holes and driving ranges shall be placed and oriented to minimize risks of damage to surrounding residential dwellings.

(4)

Public facilities and services.

a.

The development shall be located and designed so it can be adequately served by essential public utilities and services.

b.

All new and improved public facilities shall be placed and constructed in conformance with local standards and regulations, and in a manner which minimizes the costs and difficulty of operating and maintaining them.

(5)

Open space and amenities.

a.

Open space shall be arranged and improved in a manner which maximizes its benefits to the residents of the development.

b.

Open space shall be arranged in a manner which preserves and draws benefit from desirable natural features on the site.

c.

Passive and active recreational amenities shall be provided on the site consistent with the anticipated needs and interests of prospective residents.

d.

A variety of plant materials shall be preserved and/or placed throughout the site to enhance the appearance of the development and to provide privacy and separation between abutting properties and between functional areas and facilities on the site.

(6)

Traffic and access.

a.

Traffic facilities affording general access to and circulation within the development may be developed as public streets or private roads; however, access must be perpetually available to residents and emergency vehicles.

b.

One public street or private road access shall be permitted for each development unless the city decides additional access is needed because of the number of trips generated or because of the design or operating characteristics of the adjacent streets. In no case shall developments have primary access through abutting single- or two-family areas. Secondary access may be permitted through such areas only after the affected residents have been notified and a public hearing has been held, and only if the proposed access would benefit both the development and the abutting single- or two-family area.

c.

To ensure adequate accessibility for emergency vehicles, developments may be required to provide secondary means of access, including linkages with abutting properties.

d.

The proposed development may be required to build turning lanes or acceleration lanes into an adjacent street to minimize any traffic impacts from the development.

e.

If a shared access street or road is developed to serve two or more developments, or a single development with two or more owners, appropriate dedication or easement documents must be submitted to ensure perpetual access to each development.

(7)

Parking.

a.

Parking lots and spaces exposed to public streets or adjacent one- and two-family neighborhoods shall be bermed or screened by walls or other solid materials in addition to the landscaping as required in article VIII of this chapter.

b.

Where parking spaces are placed so that headlights may shine into windows of residential units within ten feet of the spaces, solid screens or landscape materials shall be installed to protect the privacy of residents.

c.

Exterior lighting on the site shall be shielded and arranged to project the light downward onto areas intended to be illuminated and not onto surrounding residential dwellings or adjacent properties.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-5; Ord. No. 998, 6-25-2002)

No building permit, grading permit, soil removal permit, or other permit for construction activity shall be issued for any use or building in the RM-8 planned unit development district until the planning and zoning official has certified to the building official that an overall site plan for the entire site has been approved and specific plans for such activity have been approved in accordance with the procedures and requirements of either section 50-36 of this chapter or chapter 40, pertaining to subdivisions and other land divisions, of the City Code.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-6; Ord. No. 998, 6-25-2002; Ord. No. 1061, 2-7-2006)

This is a residential district designed to provide for a moderate population density. The principal uses of land may range from single-family to moderate density multiple-family apartments or a mixture of single- and multiple-family units on a planned basis. The provisions of this district are intended to provide for the development of projects in areas where such projects could be integrated with or located near basically single-family areas, and where a desirable buffering effect can be achieved between single-family areas and higher compatible uses. It is intended that this district accommodate a compatible development of residential use at a slightly higher density than single-family, but at no lower standards of quality. Attractiveness, order, and efficiency are encouraged by providing for adequate light, air, and usable open space for dwellings and related facilities and through consideration of the proper functional relationship to each use permitted in this district.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-11)

Uses permitted in the RM-14 district are as follows:

(1)

Permitted principal uses.

a.

Foster family homes, foster family group homes, and family day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(1).

b.

Multiple-family dwellings containing four or fewer bedrooms per dwelling unit.

c.

Single-family dwellings.

d.

Two-family dwellings.

(2)

Permitted accessory uses.

a.

Accessory uses and buildings when located on the same lot as a principal use, provided that, no such use or buildings shall be used or occupied for any business, occupation, profession, trade, or dwelling purposes.

b.

Class A home occupation.

c.

Garages.

d.

Roomer in single-family dwelling. The keeping of not more than two roomers by a family or owner residing in a single-family dwelling.

e.

Roomer in two-family dwelling. The keeping of not more than one roomer by a family or owner residing in each unit of a two-family dwelling. The maximum occupancy shall not exceed three unrelated persons per unit nor six unrelated persons per dwelling structure.

f.

Sheds or other similar noncommercial outdoor storage buildings.

(3)

Permitted principal uses, subject to an approved special use permit, as provided for by article II, division 3, of this chapter.

a.

Child care centers, day care centers, and group day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(2).

b.

Class B multiple-family dwellings.

c.

Religious institutions.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-12; Ord. No. 1347-A, 2-2-2016; Ord. No. 1543, 7-15-2025)

The following requirements must be complied with in the RM-14 residential district.

(1)

Single-family and two-family dwellings shall be located so as to comply with the requirements in section 50-301 for the R-3 single-family and two-family residential district.

(2)

Multiple dwellings shall comply with the following requirements.

a.

Minimum lot area for multiple dwellings or portions thereof:

1.

One thousand square feet per person of lot area based on the maximum number of individuals who can lawfully occupy the building.

2.

Maximum number of individuals that may lawfully occupy a building:

i.

Each class A multiple dwelling shall have a minimum dwelling unit floor area of 200 square feet per person. The maximum number of unrelated persons to occupy the dwelling shall never be assumed to be fewer than the result obtained by dividing the dwelling unit floor area in square feet by 200 square feet.

ii.

Each class B multiple dwelling shall have a minimum bedroom or dormitory floor area of 60 square feet per person.

iii.

The maximum number of persons to occupy the dwelling shall never be assumed to be less than the result obtained by dividing the bedroom and/or dormitory floor area in square feet by 60 square feet.

iv.

A lot on which there is a multiple dwelling shall contain an area of not less than 10,000 square feet.

b.

Minimum lot width: 100 feet.

c.

Maximum building height:

1.

Principal building: 40 feet or three stories.

2.

Accessory building: one story or 15 feet.

d.

Maximum building coverage ratio: 35 percent.

e.

Maximum ground coverage ratio: 45 percent.

f.

Required parking: Parking shall be provided in accordance with article VIII of this chapter.

g.

Building setback requirements shall be calculated according to the following schedule:

1.

Principal buildings.

(a) Height increment: 50 percent of height greater than 25 feet.

(b) Length increment: five percent of length greater than 50 feet.

* Height and length increments can be averaged along side or rear lot lines; however, at no point shall the setback be less than the base requirement.

2.

Accessory buildings. No unattached garage shall be located in a front yard. No other accessory building shall be located in a front yard or a side yard.

3.

Minimum distance between principal buildings. The sides of a building containing main window exposures or main entrances shall be located no closer to another building than a distance equal to the height of the taller building of the two. The remaining sides of a building other than defined above shall be located no closer to another building than a distance equal to 60 percent of the height of the taller building of the two.

4.

Minimum horizontal distance between building wings in same building. The minimum horizontal distance between building wings in the same building shall not be less than the length of the projection of such wings, or not less than the height of the taller of the said two wings, whichever is greater.

h.

Open space. A minimum of 20 percent of the total acreage of the site shall be open space for the use of the residents of the site.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-13; Ord. No. 1087, pt. IV, 12-21-2004; Ord. No. 1543, 7-15-2025)

(a)

Multiple dwellings of five or more dwelling units. No building permit, grading permit, soil removal permit, or other permit for construction activity shall be issued for a multiple dwelling containing five or more dwelling units until the planning and zoning official has certified to the building official that plans for such activity have been approved in accordance with the procedures and requirements of section 50-36 of this chapter.

(b)

Single-family dwelling, two-family dwelling, and multiple dwellings of four or less dwelling units. No building permit, grading permit, soil removal permit, or other permit for construction activity for the above mentioned uses shall be issued until the building official certifies that such activity satisfies the requirements of the RM-14 district and the building permit requirements of section 50-35.

(Ord. No. 1061, 2-7-2006)

The purpose of this district is to provide for residential development at a medium population density. The provisions of this district are intended to recognize that a certain amount of flexibility in multiple-family living is desirable and the district is designed to complement the requirements of the low and high density multiple-family districts. The provisions of this district are intended to provide for sites in logical locations after consideration of such factors as the following: the capacity and character of adjoining streets; the nature of surrounding uses; the nearness to large concentrations of employment such as the university; or where a substantial amount of primarily vacant land exists or where smaller individual parcels of land can be feasibly assembled to form a single, larger parcel suitable for multiple-family apartments. It is intended that this district accommodate a compatible development of residential use at a higher density than single-family, but no lower standards of quality. Attractiveness, order, and efficiency are encouraged by providing for adequate light, air, and usable open space for dwellings and related facilities and through consideration of the proper functional relationship to each permitted use in this district.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-21)

Uses permitted in the RM-22 district are as follows:

(1)

Permitted principal uses subject to site plan approval as provided for in section 50-36 of this chapter:

a.

Foster family homes, foster family group homes, and family day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(1).

b.

Multiple-unit dwellings containing four or fewer bedrooms per dwelling unit, except hotels and motels.

(2)

Principal uses permitted subject to an approved special use permit as provided for by article II, division 3, of this chapter.

a.

Child care centers, day care centers, and group day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(2).

b.

Class B multiple-family dwellings, providing dining, social, or recreational facilities for persons residing off-site such as sororities or fraternities.

c.

Office space, provided that, the total square footage of building space devoted to such usage shall not exceed a figure equal to 20 percent of the total first floor area of all buildings on the site. Provided further that:

1.

Such offices would be permitted only if the benefits of the office use to the residential occupants and the surrounding residents outweigh the potential interference or disruption because of noise, traffic, physical activity, or other attributes of the use.

2.

Buildings to be utilized for offices shall be architecturally consistent with the other buildings on the site.

3.

Signs, identifying the office location, shall be limited to one sign for each office not exceeding four square feet and placed flat against the wall of the office which is being identified.

d.

Religious institutions.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-22; Ord. No. 1347-A, 2-2-2016; Ord. No. 1543, 7-15-2025)

The following requirements must be complied within the RM-22 residential district.

(1)

Minimum lot area.

a.

There shall be a minimum of 1,000 square feet of lot area per person based on the maximum number of individuals who could lawfully occupy the building.

b.

A lot on which there is a multiple dwelling shall contain an area of not less than 1.5 acres.

(2)

Minimum lot width. None.

(3)

Minimum floor area, multiple dwellings.

a.

Class A: 300 square feet of dwelling unit floor area per person.

b.

Class B: 60 square feet of bedroom or dormitory floor area per person.

(4)

Maximum building height.

a.

Principal building:

1.

Residential. Four stories or 50 feet.

2.

Office. Two stories or 36 feet.

b.

Accessory building: two stories or 25 feet.

c.

Principal residential buildings on parcels eight acres or more in size may be up to six stories or 70 feet high, subject to an approved special use permit as provided by article II, division 3, of this chapter.

(5)

Maximum building coverage ratio. Thirty percent.

(6)

Maximum ground coverage ratio. Sixty percent, minus five percent for each story above four stories.

(7)

Required parking. Parking shall be provided in accordance with article VIII of this chapter.

(8)

Building setback requirements.

a.

Twenty-five feet from the exterior property line, plus an additional five feet for every story above one story.

b.

If the property abuts property zoned RM-14, RM-22, RM-32, RM-54, any B business district, or the OIP district, a setback of ten feet from the exterior property line, plus an additional five feet for each story above one story.

c.

Parking areas, garages, and carports from exterior property line: ten feet.

d.

Buildings and parking areas from street: 25 feet; for building, plus five feet for each story above four stories.

(9)

Minimum distance between principal buildings.

a.

Main entrances or window exposures shall be no closer than the distance equal to height of tallest building.

b.

Other walls shall be no closer than 60 percent of the height of tallest building.

(10)

Minimum horizontal distance between building wings. The minimum horizontal distance between wings in the same building, measured perpendicular to either wing, shall not be less than the length of the longer wing or less than the height of the taller wing, whichever is greater.

(11)

Open space. A minimum of 20 percent of the total acreage of the site shall be open space for the use of the residents of the site.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-23; Ord. No. 1087, pt. V, 12-21-2004; Ord. No. 1543, 7-15-2025)

No building permit, grading permit, soil removal permit, or other permit for construction activity shall be issued for any use or building in the RM-22 residential district until the planning and zoning official has certified to the building official that plans for such activity have been approved in accordance with the procedures and requirements of section 50-36 of this chapter.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-25; Ord. No. 1061, 2-7-2006)

This residential district is intended to provide and encourage the development of housing peculiar to the needs of persons who desire to live within walking distance to shopping, dining, and entertaining facilities situated in the City Center. This district also provides for the limited commercial use of existing residential structures in a manner that maintains the visual character and architectural scale of existing development within the district, and will minimize the visual and functional conflicts between the district's residential uses and nonresidential uses which abut it.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-31)

Uses permitted in the RM-32 district are as follows:

(1)

Permitted principal uses subject to approval as provided for by section 50-35, pertaining to building permits.

a.

Foster family homes, foster family group homes, and family day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(1).

b.

Multiple dwellings containing four or fewer dwelling units with four or fewer bedrooms per dwelling unit, except hotels and motels.

c.

Single-family dwellings.

d.

Two-family dwellings.

(2)

Permitted principal uses subject to site plan approval as provided for by section 50-36 of this chapter.

a.

Extended care/nursing facility.

b.

Multiple-family dwellings, except hotels and motels, containing five or more dwelling units and containing four or fewer bedrooms per dwelling unit.

(3)

Permitted principal uses subject to an approved special use permit as provided for by article II, division 3, of this chapter.

a.

Art galleries, libraries, museums, not operated for profit.

b.

Buildings owned and occupied by public utilities.

c.

Child care centers, day care centers, and group day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(2).

d.

Class B multiple-family dwellings.

e.

Institutional headquarters for nonprofit organizations.

f.

Professional clinics, professional, and quasi-professional offices, including, but not limited to, the following: lawyers, architects, engineers, real estate and insurance brokers, physicians, and dentists.

g.

Recreational buildings and community centers not operated for profit.

h.

Religious institutions.

(4)

Permitted accessory uses.

a.

Accessory uses and buildings when located on the same lot as a permissible use, provided that, such accessory use of building shall not be used or occupied for any business, occupation, profession, trade, or dwelling purposes.

b.

Class A home occupations.

c.

Private garages: four spaces maximum.

d.

Public garages. Public garages shall be permitted when for storage purposes only, with no repair facilities and when said garage is located not less than 40 feet from the front lot line, 15 feet from the side lot line, 20 feet from the rear lot line, 30 feet from any other street line on which such lot borders, and 20 feet from any residential building to the same lot as the garage, provided that, no public garage shall have an entrance or exit for motor vehicles within 300 feet of an entrance or exit of a public or parochial school, public playground, public library, church, hospital, or other public or semipublic institution.

e.

Roomer in single-family dwelling. The keeping of not more than two roomers by a family or owner residing in a single-family dwelling.

f.

Roomer in two-family dwelling. The keeping of not more than one roomer by a family or owner residing in each unit of a two-family dwelling. The maximum occupancy shall not exceed three unrelated persons per unit nor six unrelated persons per dwelling structure.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-32; Ord. No. 1061, 2-7-2006; Ord. No. 1347-A, 2-2-2016; Ord. No. 1430, 7-17-2018; Ord. No. 1543, 7-15-2025)

The following requirements must be complied within the RM-32 residential district.

(1)

Single-family and two-family dwellings shall be located so as to comply with the requirements in section 50-301 for the R-3 single-family and two-family residential district.

(2)

All nonresidential uses as permitted in section 50-442, shall be located so as to comply with the following standards. The purpose of these standards is to maintain the residential appearance of the area and the integrity of the residential structures which undergo conversion, and to minimize any adverse impacts on surrounding properties.

a.

Minimum lot area for multiple dwellings, within mixed use, maximum building height, maximum building coverage, and maximum ground coverage shall be the same as the requirements in subsection (4) of this section.

b.

Required parking. Parking shall be provided in accordance with article VIII of this chapter, except for the following additional requirements:

1.

No more than 50 percent of the required parking shall be provided on-site; however, on the request of the applicant, the planning commission may waive this restriction, in whole or in part, upon consideration of the needs of the applicant, the impact of traffic on the neighborhood, the hours of operation of the business, and the availability of public parking spaces if the property is located within a 350-foot radius of the municipal parking system.

2.

Access to any on-site parking facility shall be by the alley to the rear of the property. Any existing curb cut onto the street shall be removed to minimize, and if possible, eliminate conflicts with pedestrians and other vehicular traffic.

c.

Signs. Signs located on the premises identifying the business shall be limited to one wall sign not to exceed six square feet; and one freestanding sign which shall not exceed six square feet in size, and shall not exceed six feet in height. Signs shall be of a design and material that will be compatible with the residential character of the area. Signs shall be illuminated by indirect illumination only.

d.

Lighting. Artificial exterior lighting which is provided for parking and access areas, and for occupant, customer, and employee safety, shall be so arranged as to reflect the light away from any adjoining residential property.

(3)

Multiple dwellings shall comply with the following standards:

a.

Minimum lot area for multiple dwellings or portions thereof:

1.

Four hundred fifty square feet of lot area per person based on the maximum number of persons for whom living facilities are provided.

2.

Maximum number of individuals that may occupy a building:

i.

Each class A multiple dwelling shall have a minimum dwelling unit floor area of 200 square feet per person. The maximum number of unrelated persons to occupy the dwelling shall never be assumed to be less than the result obtained by dividing the dwelling unit floor area in square feet by 200 square feet except as hereinafter restricted.

ii.

The total lot area required based on the occupancy shall be provided, except that the number of unrelated persons allowed to occupy the premises shall be further restricted to that number obtained by dividing the remainder of the lot area in square feet (total of lot minus the lot area required for families occupying the building) by 450 square feet per person.

iii.

Each class B multiple dwelling shall have a minimum floor area of 150 square feet per person. The maximum number of persons to occupy the dwelling shall never be assumed to be less than the result obtained by dividing the dwelling unit floor area in square feet by 150 square feet.

iv.

A lot on which there is a multiple dwelling shall contain an area of not less than 10,000 square feet.

b.

Minimum lot width: 75 feet.

c.

Maximum building height:

1.

Principal building: three stories or 40 feet.

2.

Accessory building: two stories or 25 feet.

3.

Principal residential buildings on parcels three acres or more in size may be up to six stories or 70 feet high, subject to an approved special use permit as provided by article II, division 3, of this chapter.

d.

Maximum building coverage ratio: 30 percent.

e.

Maximum ground coverage ratio: 60 percent.

f.

Required parking. Parking shall be provided in accordance with article VIII of this chapter.

g.

Building setback requirements shall be calculated according to the following schedule:

1.

Principal buildings.

In addition to the standards above, structures with flat or mansard roofs which are in excess of 20 feet in height, or structures with hipped, gabled, or other pitched roofs which are in excess of 20 feet at the eave line or in excess of 25 feet in total height shall be no closer to parcels zoned within the R-1 or R-2 single-family districts than a distance equal to the height of the structure plus appropriate building length and depth increments. For the purposes of this provision, the building height shall be calculated according to the definition of "building height" in section 50-5, except that the vertical distance shall be measured from the lowest point of elevation of the finished ground surface between the building and the common lot line instead of the elevation of the street curb paralleling the site. Also for the purposes of this provision, the building length increment shall be a distance equal to ten percent of the building length (facing the common lot line) in excess of 40 feet, and the building depth increment shall be a distance equal to ten percent of the building depth (extending away from the common lot line) in excess of 50 feet.

2.

Accessory buildings.

i.

Private garages. No unattached garage shall be located in a front yard. When located in a rear yard it shall be located not less than five feet from the rear lot line and side lot line. When located in a side yard it shall be less than eight feet from the side lot line.

ii.

Other. All other accessory buildings shall be located in a rear yard only, shall not be less than five feet from the rear or side lot line, and not nearer than ten feet to a principal building.

h.

Minimum distance between principal buildings. The sides of a building containing main window exposures or main entrances shall be located no closer to another building than a distance equal to the height of the taller building of the two. The remaining sides of a building other than defined above shall be located no closer to another building than a distance equal to 60 percent of the height of the taller building of the two.

i.

Minimum horizontal distance between building wings. The minimum horizontal distance between wings in the same building, measured perpendicular to either wing, shall not be less than the length of the longer wing or less than the height of the taller wing, whichever is greater.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-33; Ord. No. 1087, pt. VI, 12-21-2004; Ord. No. 1543, 7-15-2025)

(a)

Multiple dwellings of five or more dwelling units. No building permit, grading permit, soil removal permit, or other permit for construction activity shall be issued for a multiple dwelling containing five or more dwelling units until the planning and zoning official has certified to the building official that plans for such activity have been approved in accordance with the procedures and requirements of section 50-36 of this chapter.

(b)

Single-family dwelling, two-family dwelling, and multiple dwellings of four or less dwelling units. No building permit, grading permit, soil removal permit, or other permit for construction activity for the above mentioned uses shall be issued until the building official certifies that such activity satisfies the requirements of the RM-32 district and the building permit requirements of section 50-35.

(Ord. No. 1061, 2-7-2006)

This residential district is intended to promote and encourage the establishment and maintenance of a suitable environment for housing and commercial activity in the same building located in close proximity to Michigan State University. By virtue of this location, such mixing of uses would cater to the special needs of the university community and further encourage pedestrian activity around the University. This limited commercial use in residential structures is intended to maintain the visual character and architectural scale of existing development within the district, and minimize the visual and functional conflicts between the district's residential uses and nonresidential uses which abut it.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-41; Ord. No. 1220, 10-6-2009)

Uses permitted in the RM-54 district subject to site plan approval as provided for in section 50-36 of this chapter are as follows:

(1)

Permitted principal uses for properties not fronting on a major street.

a.

Foster family homes, foster family group homes, and family day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(1).

b.

Multiple-family dwellings containing four or fewer bedrooms per unit.

c.

Townhouses.

(2)

Permitted principal uses for properties fronting on a major street.

a.

Multiple-family dwellings containing four or fewer bedrooms per dwelling unit with first floor retail and/or office use.

(3)

Permitted accessory uses.

a.

Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to the permitted principal uses.

b.

Class A home occupations.

c.

Garages used for storage purposes only, with no repair facilities.

(4)

Permitted principal uses, subject to an approved special use permit, as provided for by article II, division 3, of this chapter.

a.

Child care centers, day care centers, and group day care homes, subject to the requirements of section 50-150(2).

b.

Class B Multiple-family dwellings.

c.

Drive-in banks or financial institutions.

d.

Drive-in restaurants.

e.

Religious institutions.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-42; Ord. No. 1220, 10-6-2009; Ord. No. 1347-A, 2-2-2016; Ord. No. 1543, 7-15-2025)

The following requirements must be complied with in the RM-54 residential district.

(1)

Minimum lot area for multiple dwellings or portions thereof:

(2)

Minimum lot width: none.

(3)

Minimum lot area: none.

(4)

Maximum building height:

a.

Principal building: four stories or 50 feet.

b.

Accessory building: two stories or 25 feet.

c.

Principal residential buildings located on a major street may be up to eight stories or 90 feet high, subject to an approved special use permit as provided by article II, division 3 of this chapter.

d.

Additional stories above the maximum building height may be added to principal residential buildings in accordance with the provisions of article VII, division 8, building and site incentives.

(5)

Maximum building coverage ratio: 40 percent.

(6)

Maximum ground coverage ratio: 80 percent.

(7)

Maximum floor area ratio: 2.0 times site area.

(8)

Required parking. Parking shall be provided in accordance with article VIII of this chapter.

(9)

Building setback requirements.

a.

Principal building. Minimum setback from:

1.

Front property line: one foot for each two feet of building height.

2.

Rear property line: one foot for each two feet of building height.

3.

Side property line: one foot for each three feet of building height.

b.

Accessory building. No accessory building shall be located in a front yard. If located in a rear yard it shall be a minimum five feet from the rear or side property lines. If located in a side yard it shall be set back a distance equal to the required side yard for a principal building.

(10)

Minimum horizontal distance between buildings.

a.

Walls containing main window exposures or main entrances shall be located no closer to another building than a distance equal to the height of the taller building of the two.

b.

Other walls containing secondary windows (sides of buildings) shall be located no closer to another building than a distance equal to 60 percent of the height of the taller building of the two.

(11)

Minimum horizontal distance between building wings. The distance shall not be less than the projection of such wings, or equal to the height of the taller of the two wings, whichever is greater.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-43; Ord. No. 1087, pt. VII, 12-21-2004; Ord. No. 1276, 5-15-2012; Ord. No. 1536, 11-19-2024)

No building permit, grading permit, soil removal permit, or other permit for construction activity shall be issued for any use or building in the RM-54 residential district until the planning and zoning official has certified to the building official that plans for such activity have been approved in accordance with the procedures and requirements of section 50-36 of this chapter.

(Code 1994, ch. 55, § 5.41-45; Ord. No. 1061, 2-7-2006)