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 2009 Michigan Building Code requires a permit be acquired by an owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure.  SEction 105.2 lists several exemptions to this requirement. 

What is required to be submitted with a building permit application?

For a list of relevant documents required, please follow the link to Building Permit Application Requirements Form. 

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.

Do I need to upgrade the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in my home?

The Michigan Residential Code requires that smoke detectors be installed and located in new construction when a building permit is issued for interior work.  There are some exceptions that allow for battery or wireless units where an attic or crawl space is not available to install a hard wired system.  Carbon monoxide detectors are required in the area of all bedrooms. 

What building inspections are required?

This depends on the particular job.  For new homes, we perform the following inspections: pre-pour footing, pre-pour wall, pre-backfill, rough, insulation and final.  Please check with the office if you have any questions (616/949-3765).

What is required for the Michigan Energy Code?

You must show compliance prior to a permit being issued.  Please review the energy compliance form for further clarification. 

What is required for a Certificate of Occupancy?

All trade and building permits must be final approved.  Also, compliance with the energy code and health department approval of your well and septic (if applicable) must be documented.  For residents in East Grand Rapids, final approval of the drainage plan and other zoning requirements must be met.  (Please contact the City of East Grand Rapids prior to requesting your C.O. )

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.