Getting a blight or nuisance notice in the mail can feel alarming, but it is not a fine — it is a heads-up that something on your property needs attention. The township enforces these rules under Ordinance 32: Nuisance & Blight to keep the community safe and property values stable.
What Counts as Blight
Common violations include junk vehicles (unregistered, inoperable, or missing parts), accumulated trash or debris, overgrown vegetation blocking roads or sidewalks, abandoned appliances, and dilapidated structures. If it creates a health hazard, attracts pests, or drags down the neighborhood, it likely qualifies.
Steps to Handle Your Notice
- Read the notice carefully. It will describe the specific violation, the ordinance section, and your deadline to fix it — typically 30 days.
- Contact Ken Logan at (989) 588-9841 ext. 8 if anything is unclear. He can explain exactly what needs to change.
- Fix the issue within the deadline. Remove junk vehicles, clean up debris, mow overgrowth, or demolish unsafe structures.
- Document your cleanup. Take dated photos showing the property before and after. This protects you if there is a dispute.
- Notify the enforcement officer once the work is done so they can close out the violation.
If You Want to Appeal
You have the right to appeal the notice. Submit a written appeal to the Township Board before your compliance deadline. You will get a hearing where you can present your case. Bring photos and any evidence supporting your position.
Common Mistakes
- Ignoring the notice. It will not go away. Fines and legal action can follow.
- Partial cleanup. Make sure you address everything listed in the notice, not just the most visible item.
- Assuming a fence hides the problem. Screening junk behind a fence does not fix a blight violation unless the ordinance specifically allows it.