development
development
process
process
Not Sure Where to Start?
Let Us Help You Navigate the Development Process.
Development requirements vary depending on what you're building, where the property is located, and how it will be used. Local zoning and permitting, utilities, environmental requirements, and state or federal approvals may all come into play.
You don't need to figure out every requirement before contacting us.
Huron County EDC can help you identify the right local officials, agencies, utilities, and other partners to begin mapping out the path for your project.
Every Project is Different
A new manufacturing facility, housing development, downtown renovation, business expansion, and redevelopment project may each follow a different path. Before moving too far into a project, it helps to understand several fundamental questions.
Where is the project located?
The municipality often determines which zoning, land-use, and local approval requirements apply.
Is the proposed use allowed on the property?
Existing zoning and future land-use plans can affect whether a project can proceed as proposed or requires additional approvals.
What infrastructure and utilities does the project require?
Water, sewer, electric, natural gas, broadband, road access, drainage, and capacity can all influence project feasibility.
Are there environmental or site conditions to consider?
Previous property uses, wetlands, contamination, floodplains, soils, or other conditions may trigger additional review.
What other approvals or licenses might apply?
Depending on the project and industry, county, state, or federal agencies may also be involved.
Who May Be Involved?
Local Government
Usually the starting point for:
Zoning and land use
Site plan review
Special land uses or variances
Local permits
Building-related processes
Local infrastructure
County & Regional Partners
Depending on the project, county departments or regional entities may become involved in areas such as roads, drains, health requirements, building functions, planning, or other approvals.
Utilities
Electric, natural gas, water, sewer, broadband, and other providers may need to evaluate service availability and capacity, particularly in larger development projects.
State & Federal Agencies
Certain projects may require environmental reviews, licensing, transportation approvals, regulatory permits, or other involvement from state or federal agencies.
From Idea to Investment
A Typical Development Journey
1
What are you trying to build, expand, or redevelop?
Define the Project
2
Determine whether the location appears capable of supporting the proposed use.
Identify a Property
3
Connect with the appropriate municipality to understand zoning, land-use, and development approvals.
Understand Local Requirements
Confirm utilities, infrastructure, access, environmental considerations, and other site needs.
Evaluate Infrastructure & Site Conditions
4
Determine whether other agencies, permits, licenses, financing tools, or incentives need to be involved.
Identify Additional Approvals & Resources
5
6
Complete required approvals, financing, due diligence, design, construction, etc.
Move Toward Development
Your project may follow a different path.
The sequence and requirements vary considerably by project and location. Contact HCEDC early and we can help you identify the right starting point.
Find Your Local Contact
Local governments play an important role in the development process. If you already know where your project will be located, connecting with the appropriate municipality early can help you understand local zoning, planning, and approval requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Zoning requirements in Huron County are either county zoned or township zoned, depending on the township. VIEW ZONING MAP
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It depends on location, use, construction, industry and other factors; start with the local jurisdiction and contact the EDC if help coordinating is needed.
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Yes, ideally. The EDC can help identify questions worth investigating before acquisition.
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No. The EDC can help navigate and coordinate, but regulatory decisions remain with the appropriate governmental bodies.
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Early. EXPLORE FUNDING & INCENTIVES
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There are resources for suspected environmental issues! VIEW BROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENT
Before You Invest: Talk to Us Early
A conversation early in the process can help identify potential issues before significant time or money has been committed. It can also help ensure that potential incentives, environmental resources, utility needs, and other project considerations are explored at the appropriate time.
Need Help Mapping Out Your Project?
Development processes can be complicated, but you don't have to determine the entire roadmap on your own.
Tell us what you're planning and where you're considering doing it. We'll help identify the local officials, utilities, agencies, and other partners who may need to be involved and help you determine a logical place to start.