Planning commission explores easing generator placement rules to resolve conflict with building code
Zoning Administrator Jay Gianotti presented a study session on residential generators, highlighting a recurring conflict between the city's setback rules and the Michigan building code; staff proposed allowing the longest face of small consumer generators to be within 5 feet of the house while retaining screening and a 2‑ft property line limit.
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The Planning Commission heard an information‑only study session on residential generator placement and potential zoning changes to resolve conflicts with the Michigan building code. Zoning Administrator Jay Gianotti said the city's encroachment provision (Section 5.61) allows mechanical equipment to intrude up to 3 feet into side/rear yards, but the Michigan building code requires generators to be at least 5 feet from any operable window or opening, which sometimes makes compliant placement impossible on small or older lots.
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