Frequently Asked Questions

Assessing

 When can I appeal my property assessment?

Property assessments are appealed to the March Board of Review.  This is held every year by law, beginning on the second Monday in March.  Cascade Township generally has two days of hearings.  You may appeal in person or by letter.  If you wish to appeal in person, you must call for an appointment.

The March Board of Review has the ability to correct assessments, change property classification and grant poverty exemptions.  If a residential property is not appealed to the March Board of Review, the assessment is final until the following year.

I think I am eligible for a Principal Residence Exemption but I didn’t get my form to the Assessor by May 1^st.  Can I still get a PRE?

YES!  If you did not get your form into the office in time to have the exemption added to your property record, you may request the July or December Board of Review add the exemption.  They have the authority to add the current year and up to three prior years. 

Contact the Assessor’s Office at 949-6176 to begin the process.

I received a letter from the Assessor’s Office asking about my property.  What is this about?

The Assessor Office needs good quality information on the properties in order to accurately assess property.  We review a certain number of properties each year in order to correct any errors in the record. Areas are chosen based on how long it has been since we last reviewed them or if we have noted that we have a problem in that area.  

If there is a correction necessary, it could raise or lower your assessment.  The goal is to make the records as accurate as possible.  We send a form showing you any changes we have found, at the end of the year before we set the new assessments so you can point out any errors.            

Building Inspections

When is a building permit required?

The 2000 Michigan Building Code requires a permit when one intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.  Section 105.1 lists a long description of the repairs that do not require a permit.

Who can make application for a building permit?

Application for a Building Permit can be made by the owner or lessee of a building or agent of either or by the registered design professional employed in connection with the proposed work.

What are the documents needed when making application for a building permit?

Two sets of plans, a driveway permit from the Kent County Road Commission, Well and Septic permits from the Kent County Health Department (where applicable), site plan showing all property line set backs.

Is a building permit required for roofing or siding?

Yes. You will need to fill out a roofing/siding worksheet and a Building Permit application. Both are found on our website.

Planning Department

Do accessory buildings need zoning approval?

All accessory buildings must receive zoning approval for the placement of the building. All accessory buildings over 832 square feet in size are required to get a building permit and a Type 1 Special Use Permit from the Planning Commission. All Accessory Buildings over 200 Sq. Ft. are required to get a building permit.

What are the fencing regulations in the residential areas?

Generally, you may install up to a four-foot tall fence in any front yard area. In the side or rear yard, you may install up to a six-foot tall fence. All fences must be located entirely on your property and may not obstruct the view of any adjacent roads or driveways. All support structures for the fence must be located facing the property to whom the fence belongs. No barbed wire fencing is permitted. Building Permits are not required for fence installation.

What are the setback requirements for swimming pools?

Swimming pools must be located in the side or rear yard. A ten-foot setback must be maintained between any side or rear property line and the water's edge. A barrier in compliance with the State Building code must surround all swimming pools.

Are temporary banner signs permitted for businesses in Cascade Township?

The Cascade Township Sign Ordinance specifically prohibits the placement of any temporary signs in the township. This includes banner signs and trailer signs. Real estate signs are permitted provided they are located on the property that is for sale. 

What is the zoning classification of my property?

Please click here to be directed to the zoning map. 

Treasurer's Department

When are property taxes due?

The summer taxes are mailed by July 1, payable without interest or penalties until September 14.  The winter taxes are mailed December 1, payable without interest or penalties until February 14. 

Can I still pay my property taxes at the Township?

The township collects both summer and winter taxes until February 28 of each year.  Kent County collects the taxes after that date.  The exception is business personal property taxes.

What is the millage rate?

The millage rate depends on the school district in which you live.  Cascade Charter Township collects for Caledonia Community Schools, Forest Hills Public Schools and Lowell Area Schools.  The millage rates are estimations until July 1 and December 1.  You may call the treasurer's office at (616) 949-6944.

Does the parcel have any special assessments or outstanding invoices?

Special assessment questions should be directed to the Assistant to the Manager at 949-1500.  You may also access the information through the website on our property information software.