Other Permits

Is your business or group interested in hosting a large event on private property? You need a Temporary Use Permit to make sure your event meets our community’s standards as defined in the Grand Rapids City Code and the Michigan Building Code.

Do you want to have a recreational fire? You can apply for a Recreational Fire Permit if your property meets certain requirements. To balance the needs of our citizens, the City allows recreational fires by permit only.

If you are looking to install a new sign for your business or organization, need to re-face an existing sign, or want to place a temporary sign for short-term purposes, you will need to apply for a permit to make sure your sign meets our community’s standards as defined in the Grand Rapids Zoning Ordinance and the Michigan Building Code.

Thank you for taking part in this new program! Please choose a permit application type below and a City Planner will be in contact within 1-3 business days.

If you want to have chickens in your backyard, you can apply for a Backyard Chicken Permit if your property meets certain size requirements. Please check with your adjacent neighbors first, because they can cause your application to be denied.

If you would like to request assignment of specific addresses for new construction, or change an existing property address, you will need to submit an Addressing application.

If you want to have bees in your backyard, you can apply for a Backyard Bee Permit. Backyard bees are permitted so long as hive/box size and placement regulations are followed, as outlined in the City Ordinance.

Is your business closing?  By State Law, you are required to obtain a Going Out of Business License.  We will assist you in the process.

Are you planning to operate a business out of your home with customers or clients visiting your home? You will need to obtain a Home Occupation Class B license and we’re happy to assist you with the process.

Are you looking to rent spaces in your home for overnight use? You'll need this license to operate these types of business - Bed and breakfast, Rooming house, Boarding house

Do you want to operate a hotel or motel in Grand Rapids? We can help you apply for your business license.

Are you looking to bring your mobile vending cart downtown? We can help you apply for your license to sell your products downtown.