How we use our land is the foundation of environmental quality. Statewide there are more than 1800 units of local government that have the authority to make land use decisions. FILLING THE GAPS was created to equip local officials with important information to consider when making local land use plans, adopting new environmentally focused regulations, or reviewing proposed development. For more information, contact Michigan's Coastal Management Program at 517-335-3168.

NOTE: This publication and future versions of this publication may be quoted or reproduced in part without permission, as long as such reproduction is for non-commercial, non-profit educational purposes. The authors and the Michigan Coastal Management Program must be credited with any use. Unauthorized reproduction for non-public purposes is prohibited.

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Filling the Gaps - Entire Publication (10,000 KB)

• Cover and Introductory Pages (4 pages, 2,700 KB)
• Table of Contents (4 pages, 25 KB)
• Part I: The Big Picture (20 pages, 1,700 KB)
• Part II: The Law of the Land (57 pages, 5,400 KB)
• Part III: Local Planning & Zoning (16 pages, 400 KB)
• Appendices (2,300 KB)  The appendices contain sample ordinance language, natural features inventory information, DEQ permit coordination checklist, and other reference materials. 

For information regarding the NOAA Coastal Management Fellowship program visit www.csc.noaa.gov/cms/fellows.html.