The Ferndale Resource Map is a self-assessment tool to make resources available to you to start, grow and sustain your business. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or an existing business owner, Ferndale has everything you need. Fill out the questionnaire below to be provided with relevant resources and permits for your business. If you need individualized assistance, you can request a consultation with the Community & Economic Development Department.

Ferndale is excited to empower business owners and help them get the resources that they need.

Your Assistance Needs

Permits

The ResourceMap offers a variety of permits related to food, land and building development. The best way to find out if you need a permit select options that are closely related to your project. For more information or questions related to your project, schedule an appointment with the Community & Economic Development Department or call 248-546-2363.

Business Support

Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or an existing business owner, Ferndale offers a variety of business support services such as trainings/classes, networking, and funding opportunities. Find opportunities that are right for you. 

See All Resources

Browse all of the resources we offer!

Other/Consultation

Not seeing what you need here, or have a specific need? Contact us to set up a consultation.

What are you Looking For?

General overview of the development process

Permit Categories

Food, Alcohol, or Other Special Use

Permits for operating retail food establishments in Ferndale, such as restaurants, caterers, grocery stores, school cafeterias and mobile food vehicles.

Building Rehab, Demolition, or Construction

Permits ensure that you are in compliance with building codes that regulate the processes of use of a building as well as utilities management.

Zoning

Permits for zoning approval for all exterior construction, land use, and most interior work.

Building Signage

Permits for building signage.

Events, Signage, Right of Way Access

Permits for special event and marketing signage.

What type of Project are you working on? Select Permit Categories:

click "Next" to view all resources

Appearance Review Application

Exterior Changes, Construction, Buildings, Downtown Area

After approval of your ZDR, you will need to submit an Appearance Review Application for any exterior improvements, renovations or changes to the building including but not limited to paint color, remodeling, windows, doors, facade, etc. This applies only if you are located in the downtown area of Ferndale.

Click here for the Permit

Block Party Petition

Events

A majority (51%) of signatures of property owners on the block is required for a block party permit. Petitions must be submitted at least one week prior to date of the party. Signatures will be verified through assessing and/or voter registration records. Multiple signers from a single household and unverifiable signatures will not be counted. Parking vehicles crosswise in the street or creating an obstacle that in any manner impedes access for emergency vehicles is a danger to public safety and not allowable, pursuant to Chap. 16, Sec. 16-12 (J) of the Code of Ordinances. Barricades will be supplied by the city and must be erected at each end of the block by the applicants.

Click here for the Permit

Building Permit Application

Construction, Insepection, Building

For restaurants to install an outdoor seating area on public property from March 1 - November 15.

Click here for the Permit

BZA Variance Application

Zoning, Construction

If there are practical difficulties or unnecessary hardship in carrying out the strict letter of the Zoning Ordinance, the BZA may grant a variance in any of its rules or provisions relating to the construction, or structural changes in, equipment, or alteration of the buildings or structures, or the use of land, buildings, or structures, so that the spirit of the ordinance shall be observed, public safety secured, and substantial justice done. Submit the BZA Variance Application and appropriate fees.

Click here for the Permit

BZA Variance Application

Zoning, Construction

If there are practical difficulties or unnecessary hardship in carrying out the strict letter of the Zoning Ordinance, the BZA may grant a variance in any of its rules or provisions relating to the construction, or structural changes in, equipment, or alteration of the buildings or structures, or the use of land, buildings, or structures, so that the spirit of the ordinance shall be observed, public safety secured, and substantial justice done. Submit the BZA Variance Application and appropriate fees.

Click here for the Permit

Contractor Registration

Contractor, Registration

The City of Ferndale does not require a special registration application. Please include copies of your trade and driver's licenses, your Permit application, and the appropriate fees, to the CED departments.

Kathy McClintic
Community & Economic Development
248-546-2366

No Permit Needed

Contractor registration

Contractor, Registration

The City of Ferndale does not require a special registration application. Please include copies of your trade and driver's licenses, your Permit application, and the appropriate fees, to the CED departments.

Kathy McClintic
Community & Economic Development
248-546-2366

No Permit Needed

Electrical Permit

Utility, Maintence, Installation

All installation, alteration or repair of electric wiring, equipment, apparatus or fixture for light, heat, power, or medical devices that exceeds 30 volts shall be done by a licensed electrical contractor as provided for in Act 217, Public Acts of 1956 State of Michigan 

Click here for the Permit

Liquor License

Liquor, Food, Restaurant

The Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) must approve any application before it gets to the local level. 

To begin your application process, contact

Michigan Liquor Control Commission
P.O. Box 30005
Lansing, MI 48909

Email: mlccinfo2@michigan.gov
Phone: 517-322-1345
Fax: 517-322-5188

Ferndale City Council considers requests for the issuance of new, transfer, and redevelopment liquor licenses for on-premise consumption of alcohol.

For more information, please contact the City Clerk at 248-546-2381.

No online Application. Applicants must contact via the details above.

Liquor License

Liquor, Food, Restaurant

The Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) must approve any application before it gets to the local level. 

To begin your application process, contact

Michigan Liquor Control Commission
P.O. Box 30005
Lansing, MI 48909

Email: mlccinfo2@michigan.gov
Phone: 517-322-1345
Fax: 517-322-5188

Ferndale City Council considers requests for the issuance of new, transfer, and redevelopment liquor licenses for on-premise consumption of alcohol.

For more information, please contact the City Clerk at 248-546-2381.

No online Application. Applicants must contact via the details above.

Mechanical Permit Application

Building, Installation, Maintenance

Mechanical work shall not be started until the Mechanical Permit has been issued by the City of Ferndale. All installations shall be in conformance with the State Mechanical Code. No work shall be concealed until it has been inspected.

Contact Us: When ready for inspection, contact (248) 546-2366 Monday – Thursday, 8 AM to 5:30 PM. The address, permit number and type of inspection are required when requesting an inspection.

Click here for the Permit

Mobile & Sidewalk Vending License Application

Food, Restaurant

Application to operate a food truck (mobile vending) or pushcart (sidewalk vending).

Click here for the Permit

Mobile & Sidewalk Vending License Application

Food, Restaurant

Application to operate a food truck (mobile vending) or pushcart (sidewalk vending).

Click here for the Permit

Plumbing Permit Application

Utility, Plumbing, Installation, Maintenance

Plumbing work shall not be started until the Plumbing Permit has been issued by the City of Ferndale. All installations shall be in conformance with State Codes. No work shall be concealed until it has been inspected.

"When ready for inspection, contact (248) 546-2366 Monday – Thursday, 8 AM to 5:30 PM. The address, permit number and type of inspection are required when requesting an inspection.

Contact:
Kathy McClintic
Community & Economic Development
248-546-2366"

Click here for the Permit

Rezoning Application

Zoning, Special 

A Dimensional Variance, (or Non-Use Variance), is a request to vary from a specific dimensional requirement within the Code of Ordinance. Variance requests are subject to a specific set of requirements identified in Article 18 of the City’s Zoning Ordinance. Any application must address all of the identified criteria. Dimensional Variance’s are heard by the City’s Board of Zoning Appeals. The board MUST agree that an applicant meets all of the necessary requirements prior to approving a request.

Any application must address all of the identified criteria. Dimensional Variance’s are heard by the City’s Board of Zoning Appeals. The board MUST agree that an applicant meets all of the necessary requirements prior to approving a request. 

Click here for the Permit

Sidewalk Cafe License Application

Food, Resturants, Exterior Changes

For restaurants to install an outdoor seating area on public property from March 1 - November 15.

Click here for the Permit

Sidewalk Cafe License Application

Food, Resturants, Exterior Changes

For restaurants to install an outdoor seating area on public property from March 1 - November 15.

Click here for the Permit

Sign Permit Application

Marketing, Signage, Exterior Changes

Read our Sign Ordinance(http://www.ferndalemi.gov/Portals/0/CED/Permits and Forms/Sign Ordinance.pdf) to learn about sign regulations and responsibilities for business owners and property managers. 

For more questions, contact:

Justin Lyons
300 E. 9 Mile Rd. | Ferndale, MI | 48220
248-336-4366"

Click here for the Permit

Sign Permit Application

Marketing, Signage, Exterior Changes

Read our Sign Ordinance(http://www.ferndalemi.gov/Portals/0/CED/Permits and Forms/Sign Ordinance.pdf) to learn about sign regulations and responsibilities for business owners and property managers. 

For more questions, contact:

Justin Lyons
300 E. 9 Mile Rd. | Ferndale, MI | 48220
248-336-4366"

Click here for the Permit

Site Plan Application

Construction, Land Use

If a site plan approval is required, the applicant must submit plans in conformance with Article 11, Site Plan Review of the City’s Zoning Ordinance. Complete Site Plan Packages are submitted to the CED department for review. Plans are reviewed and a determination is made regarding the plans compliance with applicable requirements. The plan may be approved administratively, (by the CED Director), or forwarded to the Planning Commission for approval.

Click here for the Permit

Site Plan Application

Construction, Land Use

If a site plan approval is required, the applicant must submit plans in conformance with Article 11, Site Plan Review of the City’s Zoning Ordinance. Complete Site Plan Packages are submitted to the CED department for review. Plans are reviewed and a determination is made regarding the plans compliance with applicable requirements. The plan may be approved administratively, (by the CED Director), or forwarded to the Planning Commission for approval.

Click here for the Permit

Special Land Use Application

Construction, Land Use, Events

Special Land Uses (SLU) are uses that may be allowed in the district only after review of an additional set of criteria, (Article 12 of the City’s Zoning Ordinance). These criteria are established to protect the districts from uses that may be more intense than the permitted uses within that district. SLU’s require a Public Hearing in front of the Planning Commission and City Council Approval. All Special Land Use requests must be accompanied by plans and information demonstrating compliance with current zoning requirements and SLU criteria.

Click here for the Permit

Special Land Use Application

Construction, Land Use, Events

Special Land Uses (SLU) are uses that may be allowed in the district only after review of an additional set of criteria, (Article 12 of the City’s Zoning Ordinance). These criteria are established to protect the districts from uses that may be more intense than the permitted uses within that district. SLU’s require a Public Hearing in front of the Planning Commission and City Council Approval. All Special Land Use requests must be accompanied by plans and information demonstrating compliance with current zoning requirements and SLU criteria.

Click here for the Permit

Build Institute

networking, business development

We help people turn their business ideas into reality by providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and support network in Detroit. To date, we have graduated over 1000 aspiring and experienced entrepreneurs from our classes, many of whom have gone on to start successful businesses in the city. In addition to classes, we offer networking events, mentorship, connections to resources and a nurturing community that allows ideas to develop and flourish over time. With a little support, a lot of hard work, and a friendly nudge, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running.

http://buildinstitute.org/

Build Institute

networking, business development

We help people turn their business ideas into reality by providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and support network in Detroit. To date, we have graduated over 1000 aspiring and experienced entrepreneurs from our classes, many of whom have gone on to start successful businesses in the city. In addition to classes, we offer networking events, mentorship, connections to resources and a nurturing community that allows ideas to develop and flourish over time. With a little support, a lot of hard work, and a friendly nudge, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running.

http://buildinstitute.org/

Detroit BizGrid

business development, networking, space, etc

Used to find resources in Greater Detroit Area

http://detroitbizgrid.com/

Detroit BizGrid

business development, networking, space, etc

Used to find resources in Greater Detroit Area

http://detroitbizgrid.com/

Detroit BizGrid

business development, networking, space, etc

Used to find resources in Greater Detroit Area

http://detroitbizgrid.com/

FernCare

business development

FernCare is a non-profit, self-funded free clinic that provides no-cost medical care to the medically uninsured.

http://ferncare.org/

Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce

Networking

The Chamber serves as a guide by giving businesses the opportunities to collaborate with each other to improve the business climate in the Ferndale area. By joining the Chamber, you are investing your organization into a thriving business community and helping establish the Ferndale area as an economic leader in the Metro Detroit area. Members of the Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce are provided with tools to increase visibility, stay connected with the local community, and improve business practices. One of the most important tool is the community support members give each other from referrals.

http://www.ferndaleareachamber.com/

Ferndale Downtown Development Authority

business development, networking

As the economic redevelopment engine for Downtown Ferndale, the Ferndale DDA helps businesses and the community prosper by developing and offering a wide range of programs and assistance, designed to make businesses stronger and the district more viable. Powered by its technical expertise, valuable network of contacts and ready access to pertinent information, the Ferndale DDA is able to assist businese with just about anything they need assistance with. It is the ongoing mission of the Ferndale DDA to reaffirm the economic viability of the district by strengthening each and every one of its 350+ businesses.

http://www.downtownferndale.com/

Ferndale Downtown Development Authority

business development, networking

As the economic redevelopment engine for Downtown Ferndale, the Ferndale DDA helps businesses and the community prosper by developing and offering a wide range of programs and assistance, designed to make businesses stronger and the district more viable. Powered by its technical expertise, valuable network of contacts and ready access to pertinent information, the Ferndale DDA is able to assist businese with just about anything they need assistance with. It is the ongoing mission of the Ferndale DDA to reaffirm the economic viability of the district by strengthening each and every one of its 350+ businesses.

http://www.downtownferndale.com/

Ferndale Michigan Works

business development

Ferndale Michigan Works! will help you fill your positions with confidence. Through the use of a variety of business services—including recruiting, training, referrals, and more—Michigan Works! identifies and prepares skilled candidates who are ready to succeed. For more information, contact Heather Coleman Voss, Business Services Coordinator, at hcoleman@ferndaleschools.org.

https://ferndalecareercenter.wordpress.com/

FernNet

networking, business development

FernNet is Downtown Ferndale’s monthly Business-to-Business networking opportunity, hosted by the BizDev committee of the Ferndale Downtown Development Authority, held at different businesses around town and featuring key information and programs to help current businesses improve their bottom line.

http://www.downtownferndale.com/getting-started/fernnet/

FernNet

networking, business development

FernNet is Downtown Ferndale’s monthly Business-to-Business networking opportunity, hosted by the BizDev committee of the Ferndale Downtown Development Authority, held at different businesses around town and featuring key information and programs to help current businesses improve their bottom line.

http://www.downtownferndale.com/getting-started/fernnet/

i3 Detroit

Maker Space

I3 Detroit is metro Detroits largest Community-run DIY workshop. A collision of art, technology, learning, and collaboration. Whatever you want to build, you can do it here. 

https://www.i3detroit.org/

MEDC Community Development & Assistance

funding, business development

The MEDC is the State of Michigan’s economic development agency and through the Community Development Programs offers guidance for local-government officials, prospective developers and businesses as they navigate through the Brownfield redevelopment process.

The Community Development staff at the MEDC provides administrative support for redevelopment incentives awarded by the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) under the Brownfield Tax Increment Financing Program (Act 381 of 1996). Brownfield TIF allows a local governmental unit to continue to receive the existing taxes on the property, capture the increased tax revenue resulting from a redevelopment project, and use that incremental tax capture to reimburse the developer to help offset the costs of environmental and non-environmental eligible activities. Under a MSF approved Work Plan or Combination Plan, projects can seek reimbursement from state and local property taxes for the non-environmental eligible activities and their costs including demolition, lead and asbestos abatement, infrastructure improvements, and site preparation. 

http://www.michiganbusiness.org/community/development-assistance/#brownfield

MEDC Community Development & Assistance

funding, business development

The MEDC is the State of Michigan’s economic development agency and through the Community Development Programs offers guidance for local-government officials, prospective developers and businesses as they navigate through the Brownfield redevelopment process.

The Community Development staff at the MEDC provides administrative support for redevelopment incentives awarded by the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) under the Brownfield Tax Increment Financing Program (Act 381 of 1996). Brownfield TIF allows a local governmental unit to continue to receive the existing taxes on the property, capture the increased tax revenue resulting from a redevelopment project, and use that incremental tax capture to reimburse the developer to help offset the costs of environmental and non-environmental eligible activities. Under a MSF approved Work Plan or Combination Plan, projects can seek reimbursement from state and local property taxes for the non-environmental eligible activities and their costs including demolition, lead and asbestos abatement, infrastructure improvements, and site preparation. 

http://www.michiganbusiness.org/community/development-assistance/#brownfield

Oakland County Business Onestop

business development, counseling, training and workshops

Oakland County’s One Stop Shop Business Center has experienced, skilled and successful business counselors. As an Oakland County business owner, you can access powerful business tools, data analysis and business services that can lead to long-term business success. Whether you're starting your bus iness, experiencing growing pains or ready to take your business to the next level we are ready for you. Our hands-on business and technical services are delivered by an experienced staff and network of public and private sector partners. Our business consultants work with small for-profit businesses and advanced technology companies. 

https://www.oakgov.com/edca/business/OneStopShop/Pages/default.aspx

Oakland County Business Onestop

business development, counseling, training and workshops

Oakland County’s One Stop Shop Business Center has experienced, skilled and successful business counselors. As an Oakland County business owner, you can access powerful business tools, data analysis and business services that can lead to long-term business success. Whether you're starting your bus iness, experiencing growing pains or ready to take your business to the next level we are ready for you. Our hands-on business and technical services are delivered by an experienced staff and network of public and private sector partners. Our business consultants work with small for-profit businesses and advanced technology companies. 

https://www.oakgov.com/edca/business/OneStopShop/Pages/default.aspx

Oakland County Business Onestop

business development, counseling, training and workshops

Oakland County’s One Stop Shop Business Center has experienced, skilled and successful business counselors. As an Oakland County business owner, you can access powerful business tools, data analysis and business services that can lead to long-term business success. Whether you're starting your bus iness, experiencing growing pains or ready to take your business to the next level we are ready for you. Our hands-on business and technical services are delivered by an experienced staff and network of public and private sector partners. Our business consultants work with small for-profit businesses and advanced technology companies. 

https://www.oakgov.com/edca/business/OneStopShop/Pages/default.aspx

Oakland County Tech 248

networking

Tech248 is sponsored by Oakland County as an arena for tech-focused companies in Oakland County to connect and form partnerships.

https://www.oakgov.com/Pages/home.aspx

Rustbelt

Space

Dedicated to nourishing small businesses owned by michigan artists & collectors.

http://www.rustbeltmarket.com/application/

SBA Michigan District Office

funding, business development

The goal of the Michigan District Office is to create an environment within Michigan where small business can grow and prosper. We do this by providing:

Free business counseling through the Michigan Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, Women Business Centers, and U.S. Export Assistance Centers.

Government contracting assistance

Low-cost training

Loan guaranty programs (SBA does not provide grants to individuals to start businesses). 

https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/mi/detroit/about-us

SBA Michigan District Office

funding, business development

The goal of the Michigan District Office is to create an environment within Michigan where small business can grow and prosper. We do this by providing:

Free business counseling through the Michigan Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, Women Business Centers, and U.S. Export Assistance Centers.

Government contracting assistance

Low-cost training

Loan guaranty programs (SBA does not provide grants to individuals to start businesses). 

https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/mi/detroit/about-us

SCORE

business development, networking

SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. We have been doing this for over fifty years.

Because our work is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and thanks to our network of 11,000+ volunteers, we are able to deliver our services at no charge or at very low cost.

We can provide:

Volunteer MENTORS who share their expertise across 62 industries

Free, confidential business MENTORING in person or via email

Free business TOOLS, templates and tips here online

Inexpensive or free business WORKSHOPS (locally) and webinars (online 24/7)

Our 320+ chapters hold events and workshops locally across the U.S. and its territories, and match up entrepreneurs with local, volunteer mentors.

SCORE is headquartered in Herndon, VA.

https://www.score.org/

SCORE

business development, networking

SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. We have been doing this for over fifty years.

Because our work is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and thanks to our network of 11,000+ volunteers, we are able to deliver our services at no charge or at very low cost.

We can provide:

Volunteer MENTORS who share their expertise across 62 industries

Free, confidential business MENTORING in person or via email

Free business TOOLS, templates and tips here online

Inexpensive or free business WORKSHOPS (locally) and webinars (online 24/7)

Our 320+ chapters hold events and workshops locally across the U.S. and its territories, and match up entrepreneurs with local, volunteer mentors.

SCORE is headquartered in Herndon, VA.

https://www.score.org/

Block Party Petition

Events

A majority (51%) of signatures of property owners on the block is required for a block party permit. Petitions must be submitted at least one week prior to date of the party. Signatures will be verified through assessing and/or voter registration records. Multiple signers from a single household and unverifiable signatures will not be counted. Parking vehicles crosswise in the street or creating an obstacle that in any manner impedes access for emergency vehicles is a danger to public safety and not allowable, pursuant to Chap. 16, Sec. 16-12 (J) of the Code of Ordinances. Barricades will be supplied by the city and must be erected at each end of the block by the applicants.

Click here for the Permit

Building Permit Application

Construction, Insepection, Building

For restaurants to install an outdoor seating area on public property from March 1 - November 15.

Click here for the Permit

Build Institute

networking, business development

We help people turn their business ideas into reality by providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and support network in Detroit. To date, we have graduated over 1000 aspiring and experienced entrepreneurs from our classes, many of whom have gone on to start successful businesses in the city. In addition to classes, we offer networking events, mentorship, connections to resources and a nurturing community that allows ideas to develop and flourish over time. With a little support, a lot of hard work, and a friendly nudge, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running.

http://buildinstitute.org/

BZA Variance Application

Zoning, Construction, 

If there are practical difficulties or unnecessary hardship in carrying out the strict letter of the Zoning Ordinance, the BZA may grant a variance in any of its rules or provisions relating to the construction, or structural changes in, equipment, or alteration of the buildings or structures, or the use of land, buildings, or structures, so that the spirit of the ordinance shall be observed, public safety secured, and substantial justice done. Submit the BZA Variance Application and appropriate fees.

Click here for the Permit

Certificate of Occupancy

Building Occupancy, Inspection, Building

A Certificate of Occupancy is a document issued by the Community & Economic Development Department certifying a building's compliance with applicable building codes and other laws, and indicating it to be in a condition suitable for occupancy. In Ferndale, the C of O is required when a new building is constructed, the use of a building changes, or ownership of the building changes. A C of O is not required when buying/selling a private residence.

Contact: Kathy McClintic
Community & Economic Development Department
248-546-2525 ext. 115

Click here for the Permit

Contractor registration

Contractor, Registration

The City of Ferndale does not require a special registration application. Please include copies of your trade and driver's licenses, your Permit application, and the appropriate fees, to the CED departments.

Kathy McClintic
Community & Economic Development
248-546-2366

No Permit Needed

Detroit BizGrid

business development, networking, space, etc

Used to find resources in Greater Detroit Area

http://detroitbizgrid.com/

Electrical Permit

Utility, Maintence, Installation 

All installation, alteration or repair of electric wiring, equipment, apparatus or fixture for light, heat, power, or medical devices that exceeds 30 volts shall be done by a licensed electrical contractor as provided for in Act 217, Public Acts of 1956 State of Michigan 

Click here for the Permit

FernCare

medical care

FernCare is a non-profit, self-funded free clinic that provides no-cost medical care to the medically uninsured.

http://ferncare.org/

FernNet

networking, business development

FernNet is Downtown Ferndale’s monthly Business-to-Business networking opportunity, hosted by the BizDev committee of the Ferndale Downtown Development Authority, held at different businesses around town and featuring key information and programs to help current businesses improve their bottom line.

http://www.downtownferndale.com/getting-started/fernnet/

Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce

Networking

The Chamber serves as a guide by giving businesses the opportunities to collaborate with each other to improve the business climate in the Ferndale area. By joining the Chamber, you are investing your organization into a thriving business community and helping establish the Ferndale area as an economic leader in the Metro Detroit area. Members of the Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce are provided with tools to increase visibility, stay connected with the local community, and improve business practices. One of the most important tool is the community support members give each other from referrals.

http://www.ferndaleareachamber.com/

Ferndale Downtown Development Authority

business development, networking

As the economic redevelopment engine for Downtown Ferndale, the Ferndale DDA helps businesses and the community prosper by developing and offering a wide range of programs and assistance, designed to make businesses stronger and the district more viable. Powered by its technical expertise, valuable network of contacts and ready access to pertinent information, the Ferndale DDA is able to assist businese with just about anything they need assistance with. It is the ongoing mission of the Ferndale DDA to reaffirm the economic viability of the district by strengthening each and every one of its 350+ businesses.

http://www.downtownferndale.com/

Ferndale Michigan Works

business development

Ferndale Michigan Works! will help you fill your positions with confidence. Through the use of a variety of business services—including recruiting, training, referrals, and more—Michigan Works! identifies and prepares skilled candidates who are ready to succeed. For more information, contact Heather Coleman Voss, Business Services Coordinator, at hcoleman@ferndaleschools.org.

https://ferndalecareercenter.wordpress.com/

i3 Detroit

Maker Space

I3 Detroit is metro Detroits largest Community-run DIY workshop. A collision of art, technology, learning, and collaboration. Whatever you want to build, you can do it here. 

https://www.i3detroit.org/

Liquor License

Liquor, Food, Restaurant

The Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) must approve any application before it gets to the local level. 

To begin your application process, contact

Michigan Liquor Control Commission
P.O. Box 30005
Lansing, MI 48909

Email: mlccinfo2@michigan.gov
Phone: 517-322-1345
Fax: 517-322-5188

Ferndale City Council considers requests for the issuance of new, transfer, and redevelopment liquor licenses for on-premise consumption of alcohol.

For more information, please contact the City Clerk at 248-546-2381.

No online Application. Applicants must contact via the details above.

Mechanical Permit Application

Building, Installation, Maintenance 

Mechanical work shall not be started until the Mechanical Permit has been issued by the City of Ferndale. All installations shall be in conformance with the State Mechanical Code. No work shall be concealed until it has been inspected.

Contact Us: When ready for inspection, contact (248) 546-2366 Monday – Thursday, 8 AM to 5:30 PM. The address, permit number and type of inspection are required when requesting an inspection.

Click here for the Permit

MEDC Community Development & Assistance

funding, business development

The MEDC is the State of Michigan’s economic development agency and through the Community Development Programs offers guidance for local-government officials, prospective developers and businesses as they navigate through the Brownfield redevelopment process.

The Community Development staff at the MEDC provides administrative support for redevelopment incentives awarded by the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) under the Brownfield Tax Increment Financing Program (Act 381 of 1996). Brownfield TIF allows a local governmental unit to continue to receive the existing taxes on the property, capture the increased tax revenue resulting from a redevelopment project, and use that incremental tax capture to reimburse the developer to help offset the costs of environmental and non-environmental eligible activities. Under a MSF approved Work Plan or Combination Plan, projects can seek reimbursement from state and local property taxes for the non-environmental eligible activities and their costs including demolition, lead and asbestos abatement, infrastructure improvements, and site preparation. 

http://www.michiganbusiness.org/community/development-assistance/#brownfield

Medical Marihuana Application Packet

Medical Marihuana, grow operations

The approved zones for a Medical Marihuana Dispensary are M1, M2 and OS. The approved zones for Medical Marihuana grow operations are M1 and M2. However, that is not to say a site would be approved as such without review of the complete packet and applications as outlined in the application packet.

Click here for the Permit

Mobile & Sidewalk Vending License Application

Food, Restaurant

Application to operate a food truck (mobile vending) or pushcart (sidewalk vending).

Click here for the Permit

Oakland County Business Onestop

business development, counseling, training and workshops

Oakland County’s One Stop Shop Business Center has experienced, skilled and successful business counselors. As an Oakland County business owner, you can access powerful business tools, data analysis and business services that can lead to long-term business success. Whether you're starting your bus iness, experiencing growing pains or ready to take your business to the next level we are ready for you. Our hands-on business and technical services are delivered by an experienced staff and network of public and private sector partners. Our business consultants work with small for-profit businesses and advanced technology companies. 

https://www.oakgov.com/edca/business/OneStopShop/Pages/default.aspx

Plumbing Permit Application

Utility, Plumbing, Installation, Maintenance

Plumbing work shall not be started until the Plumbing Permit has been issued by the City of Ferndale. All installations shall be in conformance with State Codes. No work shall be concealed until it has been inspected.

"When ready for inspection, contact (248) 546-2366 Monday – Thursday, 8 AM to 5:30 PM. The address, permit number and type of inspection are required when requesting an inspection.

Contact:
Kathy McClintic
Community & Economic Development
248-546-2366"

Click here for the Permit

Rezoning Application

Zoning, Special 

A Dimensional Variance, (or Non-Use Variance), is a request to vary from a specific dimensional requirement within the Code of Ordinance. Variance requests are subject to a specific set of requirements identified in Article 18 of the City’s Zoning Ordinance. Any application must address all of the identified criteria. Dimensional Variance’s are heard by the City’s Board of Zoning Appeals. The board MUST agree that an applicant meets all of the necessary requirements prior to approving a request.

Any application must address all of the identified criteria. Dimensional Variance’s are heard by the City’s Board of Zoning Appeals. The board MUST agree that an applicant meets all of the necessary requirements prior to approving a request. 

Click here for the Permit

Rustbelt

Space

Dedicated to nourishing small businesses owned by michigan artists & collectors.

http://www.rustbeltmarket.com/application/

SBA Michigan District Office

funding, business development

The goal of the Michigan District Office is to create an environment within Michigan where small business can grow and prosper. We do this by providing:

Free business counseling through the Michigan Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, Women Business Centers, and U.S. Export Assistance Centers.

Government contracting assistance

Low-cost training

Loan guaranty programs (SBA does not provide grants to individuals to start businesses). 

https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/mi/detroit/about-us

SCORE

business development, networking

SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. We have been doing this for over fifty years.

Because our work is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and thanks to our network of 11,000+ volunteers, we are able to deliver our services at no charge or at very low cost.

We can provide:

Volunteer MENTORS who share their expertise across 62 industries

Free, confidential business MENTORING in person or via email

Free business TOOLS, templates and tips here online

Inexpensive or free business WORKSHOPS (locally) and webinars (online 24/7)

Our 320+ chapters hold events and workshops locally across the U.S. and its territories, and match up entrepreneurs with local, volunteer mentors.

SCORE is headquartered in Herndon, VA.

https://www.score.org/

Sidewalk Cafe License Application

Food, Resturants, Exterior Changes

For restaurants to install an outdoor seating area on public property from March 1 - November 15.

Click here for the Permit

Sign Permit Application

Marketing, Signage, Exterior Changes

Read our Sign Ordinance(http://www.ferndalemi.gov/Portals/0/CED/Permits and Forms/Sign Ordinance.pdf) to learn about sign regulations and responsibilities for business owners and property managers. 

For more questions, contact:

Justin Lyons
300 E. 9 Mile Rd. | Ferndale, MI | 48220
248-336-4366"

Click here for the Permit

Site Plan Application

Construction, Land Use

If a site plan approval is required, the applicant must submit plans in conformance with Article 11, Site Plan Review of the City’s Zoning Ordinance. Complete Site Plan Packages are submitted to the CED department for review. Plans are reviewed and a determination is made regarding the plans compliance with applicable requirements. The plan may be approved administratively, (by the CED Director), or forwarded to the Planning Commission for approval.

Click here for the Permit

Special Land Use Application

Construction, Land Use, Events

Special Land Uses (SLU) are uses that may be allowed in the district only after review of an additional set of criteria, (Article 12 of the City’s Zoning Ordinance). These criteria are established to protect the districts from uses that may be more intense than the permitted uses within that district. SLU’s require a Public Hearing in front of the Planning Commission and City Council Approval. All Special Land Use requests must be accompanied by plans and information demonstrating compliance with current zoning requirements and SLU criteria.

Click here for the Permit

Not seeing what you need here, or have a specific need? Contact us to set up a consultation!

You may also call us at 248-546-2363