Flint, MI Accessory Structures: ADU Permits (2026)

The two-track permitting process for a Flint ADU works as follows. Zoning Track: The applicant first verifies through the Department of Planning and Development that an ADU is permitted in the underlying Chapter 50 district. If permitted by right, a zoning compliance approval is issued upon a showing of compliance with the form-based dimensional standards. If a special land use is required, the application goes to the Flint Planning Commission under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act (MCL 125.3502), which holds a public hearing with notice under MCL 125.3103 (15-day published notice, mailed notice to property owners within 300 feet). If a variance is needed, the application goes to the Flint Zoning Board of Appeals under MCL 125.3603, and the applicant must satisfy the statutory standards including practical difficulty (use variance) or unnecessary hardship (dimensional variance) consistent with Michigan Supreme Court case law (e.g., Janssen v. Holland Charter Twp.). Building Track: After zoning approval, the applicant submits construction documents to the Flint Building Official under MCL 125.1508a, prepared and sealed by a Michigan-licensed architect or engineer if required by the scope. Plan review confirms Michigan Residential Code (IRC-based) compliance for one- and two-family dwellings, including structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and energy provisions. Inspections occur at footing, foundation, framing, rough-in, insulation, and final stages under MCL 125.1512. A Certificate of Occupancy is required before the ADU may be occupied.