Fenton Township F.A.Q.'s by Category
Assessing | Building and Ordinance Enforcement | Finance | Planning & Zoning | Sewer | Taxes
- What is the difference between Assessed Value and Taxable Value?
- Who and what determines the value of a home?
- How does the Assessor determine the market value of my home?
- My assessment went up this year, and I did nothing new to my home. Why?
- How can I get the square footage, story height, lot size, parcel number, assessed value, taxable value, or legal description of a property?
- How do I combine or divide my land?
- Does Fenton Township have flood plain maps?
- What are my taxes, and can I find out what my neighbor’s taxes are?
- My house is not worth the value you have on it. What are my rights of appeal?
- What school district am I in, and what is the homestead and non-homestead millage rate?
- What is a Property Transfer Affidavit?
- What is a Principal Residence Exemption (P.R.E.), and how do I qualify?
- Why and when do I have to Rescind/Withdraw
my Principal Residence Exemption?
Building and Ordinance Enforcement
- How much does a building permit cost?
- How long does it take to obtain a building permit?
- How close to the lot lines can I build a structure?
- I want to replace my roof this year. Do I need a building permit?
- A new home is being built in my neighborhood and I think the owners are living in it while they are building it. Is this allowed?
- I understand that Fenton Township does not do the plumbing, electrical, or mechanical inspections, and that the permits are issued and inspected by the State of Michigan. How do I obtain my permits for them?
- Can I purchase a copy of the Michigan Residential Building Code at your office?
- How do I file a complaint on an Ordinance violation and do I have to give out my name or any other personal information?
- My neighbor’s dog is frequently in my yard or running around the rest of the neighborhood, and it seems to be barking all the time when it is confined to its own property. What can I do about it?
- What is considered to be blight?
- My fence is on my neighbor’s property. Can they remove it without my permission?
- I have recently had people come to my door wanting to sell me something. Is solicitation allowed in Fenton Township?
- What about wetlands issues? How do I file a complaint on a wetland violation?
- I want to build or replace a seawall and make
a sandy beach area for swimming. Do I need a permit?
- What is the schedule for submitting invoices to the Township?
- How do I determine outstanding special assessments on a specific property
- What is a zoning text amendment?
- When is a zoning text amendment required?
- Who approves a zoning text amendment?
- What are the standards for approval of a zoning text amendment?
- What is rezoning?
- When are rezonings required?
- Who approves a rezoning?
- What are the standards for approval of a rezoning?
- What is site plan review?
- When are site plans required?
- What information is required on a site plan?
- Who reviews the site plans?
- What is the site plan review process?
- What are the standards for site plan approval?
- Why does the planning commission place conditions in site plan approval?
- What are performance guarantees?
- Can an applicant make changes to approved site plans?
- What are the time limits for completion of a site plan?
- What is a special use permit?
- When is special use permit approval required?
- Who approves special use permits?
- What are the standards for approval of a special use permit?
- Is public water available?
- Is sewer available to my property?
- Do I have to connect to the sewer system?
- What is a sewer connection?
- How much does a sewer connection permit cost?
- What is the difference between a direct and indirect sewer connection?
- Who can install a sewer connection?
- How do I find where the sewer connection is located on my property?
- How far does the sewer lead need to be from my well?
- Why must the manhole remain uncovered?
- What if I want to landscape over the manhole?
- If I have sewage coming up in my drains what do I do?
- Who is responsible if I have sewage back up into my home?
- Can I connect my sump pump into the sewer system?
- Can I connect my downspouts into the sewer system?
- Why is it important to keep storm water out of the sewer system?
- Can I open a manhole for inspection?
- Can I pay my taxes with a credit or debit card?
- When can I expect to receive my summer taxes?
- When should I expect to receive my winter taxes?
- When is the last day I can pay my summer/winter taxes at the township?
- Should I notify anyone if I change who pays my taxes?
- Do you have a drop box to place a tax payment in after business hours?
- If I don't receive a tax bill, am I legally obligated to pay?
- What should I receive if I pay my own taxes?
- Can I pay my taxes at any local bank offices?
- Is there any way I could delay paying my summer
taxes without paying
interest? - How is it possible I wouldn't receive a tax bill?
- Do you accept post marks for tax payments?
- Will the township ever offer tax information
on the website about specific
properties? - Should I contact the Treasurer's office with
a name/address change or a
Principal Residence Exemption affidavit. - When are taxes due if the September 14 or February
28 falls on a legal
holiday or on a weekend day? - How come my escrow company said they paid on
one date, but your office
doesn't show it paid or it was much later than when the escrow company said
they paid? - Am I responsible to pay interest or penalties
if my escrow company doesn't
pay on time?
ASSESSING
1. What is the difference between Assessed Value and Taxable Value?
Ans: The Assessed Value of a property is 50% of the estimated “true cash value” that a property potentially will sell for in the open market without any special conditions. The Taxable Value is used for the calculation of property taxes. The millages voted in by local taxpayers are spread over the Taxable Value to determine a tax obligation by the taxpayer. Taxes are used to pay for services and schools within the local and county area. For the specific calculations, you should discuss this with your local Assessor or Treasurer.
2. Who and what determines the value of my home?
Ans: Who? A certified Assessor for Fenton Township is to assess all property in the township at its estimated fair market value. What? The market value of your property is the probable price that it would sell for in an arm’s length transaction between a willing buyer and a willing seller. Market value, in Michigan, is defined as “true cash value”. Market value changes from one year to the next.
3. How does the Assessor determine the market value of my home?
Ans: As of December 31st each year, Tax Day, the Assessor is required by Michigan State Law to assess at 50% of true cash value all assessable property within Fenton Township. This includes homes, commercial properties, industrial properties, agricultural properties, vacant land, and personal property used to operate business. After gathering pertinent information, such as sales, construction costs, rental incomes, operating expenses, and interest rates, the Assessor determines a property value in three different ways.
1. Sales Comparison Approach. First, to estimate the value of a property as of a given date, the Assessor selects, objectively analyzes, and makes the necessary adjustment for differences on recently sold comparable homes or properties. It is important to realize that the sales price for an individual property does not necessarily dictate the market value of that property.
2. Cost Approach. Second, the Assessor determines at current materials and labor costs, how much money it would take to replace your home or building with one just like it. This approach provides an estimate of value based on a determination of land value added to the depreciated cost of buildings and other improvements. If your home or building is not new, the Assessor determines how much it has depreciated due to normal wear and tear or any negative factors. The value of your lot as vacant, is also estimated from sales, and added to the value of the home or building.
3. Income Approach. The third approach provides an estimate of value by analyzing the income producing capacity of investment property. Investment property is worth the present value of income that is to be received in the future. This approach is used mostly for appeals of commercial and industrial properties, or for houses used as a rental property.4. My assessment went up this year, and I did nothing new to my house. Why?
Ans: Since assessments must be set by market value, changing real estate values in the community will be reflected in assessments. Market value is a product of the prices paid for property. As prices increase or decrease, so does market value. Property owners have a responsibility to report any changes to the Assessor on their home or property that would affect value. Our building department does notify us of any building permits issued. If you plan to make changes or demo a house, contact our office.
5. How can I get the square footage, story height, lot size, parcel number, assessed value, taxable value, or legal description of a property?
Ans: You may go to our website or call our assessing office @ 810-629-3445. Be sure to have an owner’s last name, or a street number/address, or a parcel number available to assist the staff in identifying the information you need.
6. How do I combine or divide my land?Ans: An applicant shall file all of the following with the Township Assessor or other official designated by the Fenton Township Board, for review and approval of a proposed land division, or combination before making any division either by deed, land contract, lease for more than one year, or for building development. (Application found on Assessing Department’s Form Section.)
A. A completed application form provided by the Township.
B. Proof of ownership.
C. A survey map or drawing to scale of existing land and proposed divisions with legals. (See application for additional items to be identified.)
D. Proof that all taxes or special assessments are paid in full.
E. Proof that all Standards of the State Land Division Act (Public Act 591 of 1996, Effective 3-31,1997) and the Township Land Division Ordinance (Ordinance #516) have been met.
F. All divisions shall comply with minimum area and width requirements of the Fenton Township
Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance 186, Article XVII).
G. Fees:
Parcel Split – Metes & Bounds $100.00
Parcel Split – Platted Lots (If public hearing $100.00 not required)
Parcel Combination – Platted or Metes & Bounds $100.00
Parcel Split – New Plat or Condominium Development
First 2 lots/units $100.00
Additional lots/units over 2 $ 25.00 per lot/unit
H. Sign and date a copy of Resolution No. 2000-40. The resolution states,” The payment of property taxes, which are due and payable on July 1st and December 1st of any given year, for any parcel of real property that has been divided and sold during the same year, shall be the responsibility of the record owner of said property at the time the application to divide the property is submitted to the Charter Township of Fenton”.When combining or dividing land, the existing “parent parcel number” will be retired, and a new “child” number will be issued for the effective year of the land division or combination.
7. Do you have flood plain maps?
Ans: Yes, flood plain maps are available for viewing purposes. We are not experts in the Flood Hazard Areas. The maps are for Flood Insurance purposes. To determine if Flood Insurance is available in this community, contact your insurance agent, or call the National Flood Insurance Program at (800) 638-6620 or (800) 424-8872.8. What are my taxes this year, and can I find out what my neighbor’s taxes are?
Ans: Current and delinquent taxes can be obtained from the local (810-629-1537), or county (810-257-3054) treasurer’s office. Yes, under FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) you can also request your neighbor’s taxes. (You can link to the Genesee County Website & County Treasurer’s Office on the Link Section of the Assessing Department.)
9. My house is not worth the value you have on it. What are my rights of appeal?
Ans: First, if your opinion of the value of your property differs from the Assessor’s, come to our office and discuss the matter. We are here to listen and help you. Second, after receiving your February Assessment notice, go to the March Board of Review the 2nd Monday in March at the Fenton Township Civic Community Center to exercise your right of appeal. Be sure to support your opinion of value with a list of recent sales in the local area, provide pictures showing the condition and depreciation of your home, or bring a recent appraisal of comparable homes with similar size, story height, lot size, square footage, amenities, and the same school district. If denied by the March Board of Review, petition to the Michigan Tax Tribunal in writing by June 30th. The mailing address is: Michigan Tax Tribunal, P.O. Box 30232, Lansing, MI 48909.10. What school district am I in, and what is the homestead and non-homestead rate?
Ans: There are three school districts in Fenton Township. Lake Fenton Schools, Fenton Schools, and Linden Schools. The millage rates for each school district can be found on the Assessing Department’s Information Section.
11. What is a Property Transfer Affidavit?
Ans: Whenever real estate or some types of personal property are transferred from one owner to another, this form must be filed. It is used by the Assessor to ensure the property is assessed properly and receives the correct taxable value. It must be filed by the new owner with the Assessor for the city or township where the property is located within 45 days of the transfer. If it is not filed timely, a penalty of $5/day (maximum $200) applies. This form is issued under Authority of P.A. 415 of 1994, and filing is mandatory. (The Property Transfer Affidavit can be found on the Assessing Department’s Form Section.)
12. What is a Principal Residence Exemption (P.R.E.), and how do I qualify?Ans: If you own and occupy your home as a principal residence, it may be exempt from a portion of your local school operating taxes. A Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit issued under Authority of P.A. 237 of 1994 (available under the Forms Section of the Assessing Department) must be completed and filed with your township or city by May 1st. Owning means you hold the legal title, or you are currently buying it on a recorded land contract. (Renters should not file this form.) Occupying means your principal residence is the place you intend to return to whenever you go away. It is the address that appears on your Driver License or Voter Registration Card. Your children should attend school from this address, and your State Income Tax Form is received there. A Farmland Exemption or Agricultural Use Homestead is for property classified agricultural by the Assessor. To qualify, Contact the local Assessor for an explanation of details and request a copy of Form 2599. (The Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit can be found on the Assessing Department’s Form Section.)
13. Why, and when, do I have to Rescind/Withdraw my Principal Residence Exemption?
Ans: By filing a Request to Rescind Form, issued under Authority of P.A. 237 of 1994, enables people who are selling or converting their home to another use to rescind their exemption. It also enables people to change the percentage that they occupy as their principal residence, or to remove an exemption they had been receiving erroneously. (The Rescind/Withdraw Form with instructions is available on the Assessing Department’s Form Section.)
BUILDING & ORDINANCE ENFORCEMENT
1. How much does a building permit cost?
Ans: Building permits are charged by the square foot. .40 cents per square foot on residential construction, and .30 cents per square foot on accessory buildings (attached & detached garages, sheds over 200 square feet, or pole buildings). Residential remodeling and alteration permits are $50.00. All permits require a bond to be posted at the time the permit is issued. Residential new construction and additions require a $350.00 bond, and all accessory buildings require a $250.00 bond. These bonds are refunded within 30 days of a final approved inspection by the building official. Call our office for further questions regarding this matter.
2. How long does it take to obtain a building permit?Ans: Once you have submitted your completed building permit application, plan review process is usually complete and the permit is ready for pick up within 5-7 business days, with the exception of holidays.
3. How close to the lot lines can I build a structure?
Ans: It depends on the type of structure you are building and what zoning district your property is located in. Call the Building/Zoning Department for further information.
4. I want to replace my roof this year. Do I need a building permit?
Ans: No. Building permits are not required for replacing a roof, windows, or siding. Only when you are changing the actual structure such as roof pitch, trusses, or window and/or door way size. Call the Building Department if ever in doubt.
5. A new home is being built in my neighborhood and I think the owners are living in it while they are building it. Is this allowed?
Ans: No it is not permissible for anyone to live in a newly constructed home that has not been completed and inspected. A final certificate of occupancy must be obtained before anyone may move in or stay overnight.
6. I understand that Fenton Township that does not do the plumbing, electrical, or mechanical inspections, and that they are performed through the State of Michigan. How do I obtain my permits for them?
Ans: Go to the Department of Consumer & Industry Services website and look under “Construction Codes & Fire Safety”, then go to “Forms”. From there you will find what you need. www.michigan.gov/cis
7. Can I purchase a copy of the Michigan Residential Building Code at your office?
Ans: Yes, we keep extra copies on hand for that reason. Call the office for pricing.
8. How do I file a complaint on an Ordinance violation and do I have to give out my name or any other personal information?
Ans: Call the office and ask for the Ordinance Enforcement Department. Our Ordinance Enforcement Department will assist you in filing a complaint.
9. My neighbor’s dog is frequently in my yard or running around the rest of the neighborhood, and it seems to be barking all the time when it is confined to its own property. What can I do about it?
Ans: Our Dog Control Ordinance No. 253 prohibits dogs running at large. And owning, keeping, or having charge of a barking dog is prohibited in Fenton Township. A copy of this Ordinance can be obtained on this website.
10. What is considered to be blight?
Ans: Blight can be anything from old tires lying around, to broken out windows in a home, to rubbish that has sat out for pick-up too long. A copy of the Blight Elimination Ordinance No. 508 can be obtained on this website.
11. My fence is on my neighbor’s property. Can they remove it without my permission?
Ans: This is considered a property line dispute and is a private civil matter. The Township cannot get involved in private civil matters. You will need to contact a lawyer.
12. I have recently had people come to my door wanting to sell me something. Is solicitation allowed in Fenton Township?
Ans: No it is not. Fenton Township has a Solicitors; Peddlers; Hawkers; Vendors Ordinance No. 169 that prohibits this activity.
13. What about wetlands issues? How do I file a complaint on a wetland violation?
Ans: Wetlands are regulated by the Department of Environmental Quality. Go to: www.michigan.gov/deq or call the Department of Environmental Quality Assistance Center 1-800-662-9278.
14. I want to build or replace a seawall and make a sandy beach area for swimming. Do I need a permit?
Ans: Yes, but these permits are pulled through the Department of Environmental Quality. You can download their permit application at www.michigan.gov/deq or contact our office for a copy of an application.
FINANCE
1. What is the schedule for submitting invoices to the Township?
Ans: Expenses (A/P Invoice) will be submitted for approval at every regular scheduled Township Board Meeting.
Board Meetings are held on the 1st & 3rd Monday of each month. Meeting dates may change due to holidays and/or scheduling conflicts.
2. How do I determine outstanding special assessments on a specific property?
Ans: You can call to request a payoff report on a specific property, the information will be researched and ready the following business day.
-Payoff reports can be picked up by phone daily between 11:00-12:00.
In order to process this payoff report you must have one or more of the following:
-Property Address
-Parcel Number (SID Number)
-Current Owners Name
-Current Business Name-Information included on the payoff report:
-Sewer Assessment
-Sewer Connection
-Current Sewer Use
-Road Paving
-Wall Special
-Property Taxes
-All special assessments included on taxes, yearly and interest bearing
PLANNING AND ZONING
1. What is a zoning text amendment?
Ans: A zoning text amendment changes the language of the Zoning Ordinance.
2. When is a zoning text amendment required?
Ans: Text amendments may be required to clarify the language of the Zoning Ordinance, add new zoning techniques, add new uses to zoning districts, bring standards up to date, implement a change in procedure, or other reasons. A text amendment can be initiated by a resident of the Township by petition or by application and payment of a fee, or by resolution by the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals or Township Board.
3. Who approves a zoning text amendment?
Ans: Text amendments are reviewed by the planning commission at a public hearing. Amendments are adopted by the Township Board, after considering the Planning Commission recommendation.
4. What are the standards for approval of a zoning text amendment?
Ans: When considering amendments to the Zoning Ordinance text the Planning Commission must find:
A. The change is necessary to clarify a provision of the Ordinance, or
B. The change is necessary to correct a mistake in the Ordinance, or
C. The change is necessary to implement a goal or policy of the Township Land Use Plan, or
D. The change is necessary to improve administration of the Ordinance or to better serve the community.
E. In addition to one (1) or more of the above findings, the Planning Commission must determine that the requested amendment is in compliance with the Township Land Use Plan or that a mistake in the plan, or changes in conditions or township policy have occurred that are relevant to the request. If the Planning Commission recommends approval of a request that is not in compliance with the current plan due to a mistake or change in conditions or policy, it shall immediately initiate an amendment to the plan to address the identified mistake of change.Ans: A rezoning is a change in the zoning district classification of a specific geographic area on the zoning map.
6. When are rezonings required?
Ans: A rezoning request can be initiated by the landowner, Township Board, Planning Commission or Zoning Board of Appeals to accommodate a different land use than is permitted in that district.Ans: Rezonings are reviewed by the Planning Commission at a public hearing, following which they make a recommendation on the amendment. Amendments are adopted by the Township Board, after considering the Planning Commission recommendation, public hearing comments and approval standards.
8. What are the standards for approval of a rezoning?
Ans: The Township Planning Commission and Township Board must find one of the following (see Section 14.02):
A. The requested amendment is in compliance with the Township Land Use Plan or that a mistake in the plan, or changes in conditions or Township policy have occurred that are relevant to the request. If the Planning Commission recommends approval of a request that is not in compliance with the current plan due to a mistake or change in conditions or policy, it shall immediately initiate an amendment to the plan to address the identified mistake of change.
B. The property cannot be reasonably used as it is currently zoned and the proposed request represents the most suitable alternative zoning classification based on the Future Land Use Plan.Ans: Site plan review procedures provide an opportunity for the Planning Commission to review the proposed use of a site in relation to drainage, pedestrian and vehicle circulation, off-street parking, structural relationship, public utilities, landscaping, accessibility and other site design elements which may have an adverse effect upon the public health, safety, morals and general welfare as well as to provide for the interest of the property owner.
10. When are site plans required?
Ans: Site plans are required for any of the following:
A. As part of an application for a special use permit.
B. Any change in use which requires construction of ten (10) or more additional parking spaces.
C. As part of an application for approval of a condominium development.
D. Any other construction or moving of structures except:
1. Single family and duplex residences on individual parcels and their accessory structures.
2. Non-residential accessory structures under six hundred (600) square feet.
3. Expansions of under six hundred (600) square feet to existing structures.11. What information is required on a site plan?
Ans: Information required on a site plan is listed in Section 8.03. The applicant is required to complete and submit a Site Plan Review Checklist as part of the application.
12. Who reviews the site plans?
Ans: The Planning Commission is authorized to review all site plans, including site plans submitted as a part of a special use permit application, except those special use permits which are approved administratively. The Planning Commission is authorized to approve, disapprove or approve the site plan with conditions.
13. What is the site plan review process?
Ans: The site plan review process is intended to allow the Township the opportunity to review a proposed development prior to its construction, to determine compliance with the requirements of this Ordinance.
14. What are the standards for site plan approval?
Ans: All approved site plans shall comply with the appropriate zoning district regulations, parking requirements, general provisions and other requirements of this Ordinance as they apply to the proposed site plan. In addition, each site plan shall comply with the general requirements listed in Section 8.03 of the ordinance.
15. Why does the planning commission place conditions in site plan approval?
Ans: The Planning Commission may place conditions on approval of a site plan when such conditions:
1. Would ensure that public services and facilities will be capable of accommodating increased service and facility loads caused by the land use or activity.
2. Would protect the natural environment and conserve natural resources and energy.
3. Would ensure compatibility with adjacent used of land.
4. Would promote the use of land in a socially and economically desirable manner.16. What are performance guarantees?
Ans: In the interest of insuring compliance with the Zoning Ordinance provisions, the Planning Commission of Zoning Administrator (depending on who approved the site plan) may require the applicant to deposit a performance guarantee. The purpose of the performance guarantee is to ensure completion of improvements connects with the proposed use as required by this Ordinance, including but not limited to roadways, lighting, utilities, sidewalks, drainage, fences, screens, walls, landscaping, and widening strips.
17. Can an applicant make changes to approved site plans?
Ans: All work conducted related to a project with an approved site plan shall be in conformance to that site plan. Any amendment to an approved site plan shall require the site plan to be resubmitted to the Planning Commission and go through the entire review process again, starting with the preliminary review, with the exception of minor changes as determined by the Zoning Administrator, as long as the change does not result in:
1. A significant change in the use, intensity of character of the development.
2. A significant increase in lot coverage.
3. A reduction in required off street parking or loading areas or drainage retention or detention capacity.
4. Reduction in pavement widths or utility pipe size.
5. Significant changes in road or lot layout.Minor changes shall require written notice to the Planning Commission and a notation added to the record of the decision.
18. What are the time limits for completion of a site plan?
Ans: A building permit for a project approved by site plan approval shall be filed with the Township Building Inspector within two (2) year from the date of approval of the site plan and completed within two (2) years from the date that the building permit was filed with the Building Inspector. The Planning Commission may grant approval for more than two (2) years in the case of large or multi-phased development, but nor more than five (5) years. The Zoning Administrator may grant one (1) extension for an additional one (1) year if the applicant can demonstrate that suitable, continual progress has been made on the project.
19. What is a special use permit?
Ans: Uses are permitted either ‘by right’ or by ‘special use permit’. A special use is a use which may be appropriate in the district in which it is permitted, but has certain characteristics which must be managed to protect the integrity of uses permitted by right in that district. For this reason, applications for special use permit must also go through Site Plan Review.
20. When is special use permit approval required?
Ans: Special use permit approval is required for all uses listed as special use in the District Regulations Article 3 of the Zoning Ordinance.
21. Who approves special use permits?
Ans: Special use permits are reviewed and approved by the Township Planning Commission.
22. What are the standards for approval of a special use permit?
Ans: The Planning Commission reviews the particular circumstances of the special use request under consideration in terms of the following standards, as well as applicable standards established elsewhere in this Ordinance. The Planning Commission shall find that a proposed use shall:
1. be of such location, size and character that is will be in harmony with the appropriate and orderly development of the surrounding neighborhood and/or vicinity and applicable regulations of the zoning district which it is to be located;
2. be of a nature that will make vehicular and pedestrian traffic no more hazardous than is normal for the district involved, taking into consideration vehicular turning movements in relation to routes of traffic flow, proximity, and relationship to intersections, adequacy of sight distances, location and access of off-street parking and provisions for pedestrian traffic, with particular attention to minimizing child-vehicle interfacing;
3. be designed as to the location, size, intensity, site layout and hours of operation so as to eliminate any nuisance emanating there from which might be noxious to the occupants of any other nearby permitted uses, whether by reason of dust, noise, fumes, vibration, smoke or lights;
4. be such that the proposed location and height of buildings or structures and location, nature and height of walls, fences and landscaping will not interface with or discourage the appropriate development and use of adjacent land and buildings or unreasonably affect their value;
5. not place demands on public services and facilities in excess of current capacity;
6. be so designed, located, planned and operated that the public health, safety and welfare will be protected;
7. not cause substantial injury to the value of other property in the neighborhood in which it is to be located and will not be detrimental to existing and/or permitted land uses in the zoning district.
SEWER
1. Is public water available?
Ans: At this time there is no municipal water system in Fenton Township.2. Is sewer available to my property?
Ans: If you own vacant property in Fenton Township or currently have a septic system and wish to connect to the sanitary sewer system please contact the Sewer Department to check if these services are available to your property.3. Do I have to connect to the sewer system?
Ans: Any property that is within 250 ft. of the Township sewer system must connect to sanitary sewer. When sanitary sewer becomes available to existing residences they are not required to connect until such time as their existing septic system fails.
4. What is a sewer connection?
Ans: A sewer lead that goes from the Fenton Township sanitary sewer line to your residence or business.
5. How much does a sewer connection permit cost?
Ans: At this time a connection permit is $ 7,600.00 for a direct connection and $6,000.00 for an indirect connection.6. What is the difference between a direct and indirect sewer connection?
Ans: An example of a direct connection would be an individual home connecting directly to an existing Township sewer line. An indirect connection would be an individual home connecting to a sewer system constructed specifically for their subdivision or development, which ultimately connects to existing Township sewer lines.7. Who can install a sewer connection?
Ans: Only contractors who are registered with the Township can install sewer lead connections. A list of those contractors is available at the Township office.
8. How do I find where the sewer connection is located on my property?
Ans: Township staff will review as-builts to assist you in locating your sanitary sewer lead.
9. How far does the sewer lead need to be from my well?
Ans: Your well must be located 10 ft. from your gravity sanitary sewer lead.
10. Why must the manhole remain uncovered?
Ans: Fenton Township maintenance workers must be able to access the manhole for review and/or repair.
11. What if I want to landscape over the manhole?
Ans: You may cover the manhole with wood chips, lightly cover with gravel or place a light flowerpot on top but the manhole must remain accessible. If the manhole has been raised or has been established as above grade and you cover it you will be charged for the maintenance crew to uncover the manhole.
12. If I have sewage coming up in my drains what do I do?
Ans: Stop running water in your home at once. Immediately call the Township office (810/629-1537) during business hours or the emergency number (800/544-3204) at night, holidays or weekends. You may also want to call a sewer cleaning firm as soon as possible.
13. Who is responsible if I have sewage back up into my home?
Ans: If it is determined the Township is responsible for the back up because the main gravity sanitary sewer line is blocked the Township will pay for all expenses incurred. If the back up is due to a blockage in your sewer lead the homeowner is responsible for all cost incurred.14. Can I connect my sump pump into the sewer system?
Ans: No, Public Act 222 prohibits any sump pumps from being connected to the sanitary sewer.15. Can I connect my downspouts into the sewer system?
Ans: No, You may not connect any storm water to the sanitary sewer system.
16. Why is it important to keep storm water out of the sewer system?
Ans: Storm water mixed with sanitary sewage must be treated at the treatment plant therefore placing an additional burden on the entire system. Further storm water in sanitary sewer line overtaxes the lines themselves eventually leading to the necessity and expense of upgrading pipe size.
17. Can I open a manhole for inspection?
Ans: Only authorized Fenton Township employees or their contractors may open manholes. Inflow protectors have been installed in all manholes to keep storm water out of the system and they must not be disturbed.
TAXES
1. Can I pay my taxes with a credit or debit card?
Ans: No. Real and personal property taxes must be paid using check or cash only.
2. When can I expect to receive my summer taxes?
Ans: Summer taxes should be received in early July. This year the State of Michigan has elected to collect the SET tax at 100%. There has also been a reduction from 6 to 5 mills. The summer taxes are due by September 15, 2003. After September 15 interest of 1% will be added to your tax bill each month until paid.
3. When should I expect to receive my winter taxes?
Ans: Winter taxes should be received in early December. Special assessments are usually placed on the winter taxes. Winter taxes are due by February 28, 2004. After March 1 interest of 1% and 4% penalty will be added to your tax bill.
4. When is the last day I can pay my summer/winter taxes at the township?
Ans: The last day of February. Any unpaid taxes after that day are turned over to the county as delinquent. The Genesee County Treasurer's Office telephone number is (810) 257-3054.
5. Should I notify anyone if I change who pays my taxes?
Ans: No. If you decide to pay your own taxes or if your escrow mortgage company or bank changes, you need to forward your tax bill to them. Twice a year we send mortgage companies tax bills and that is only when they are requested. If you have an escrow account and receive your bill, you will need to forward that bill on to them.
6. Do you have a drop box to place a tax payment in after business hours?
Ans: Yes, it is located on the right side of the front door of the township.
7. If I don't receive a tax bill, am I legally obligated to pay?
Ans: Yes. As unfair as some may think that is, the law clearly states the property owner is responsible even if they didn't get a bill. If you pay your own taxes, remember July and December time frames.
8. What should I receive if I pay my own taxes?
Ans: You should receive a white mailer. If you pay in person, bring the bill with you. If you pay by mail, send only the top portion. You will receive a stamped paid green for summer and pink for winter paid receipt.
9. Can I pay my taxes at any local bank offices?
Ans: No. We do not have that service available.
10. Is there any way I could delay paying my summer taxes without paying interest?
Ans: Yes. It is possible to defer summer tax payment until February 28 if the owner meets age, disability and or income guidelines. You must fill out an application in our office no later than September 15.
11. How is it possible I wouldn't receive a tax bill?
Ans: Every attempt is made to make sure property owner's receive their bill. Any returned bills are researched and hopefully sent out to the right address. Please contact our office if you don't receive a bill in early July or early December. Sometimes mortgage companies request bills in error. Selling of a house in November or June could result in the seller receiving the tax bill and not forwarding it. Also refinancing can cause the incorrect mortgage company to receive a bill. This happens when an account is
closed and reopened with a new institution.
12. Do you accept post marks for tax payments?
Ans: Yes, up to 7 days after the due date. Any payments received beyond that point will be returned to sender. Payment will have to be at the Genesee County Treasurer's Office with penalty and interest.
13. Will the township ever offer tax information on the website about specific properties?
Ans: No. There is a website set up already through Genesee County. The website contains Assessing and Tax information. There is also a section for delinquent tax information. The link is www.co.genesee.mi.us/treasurer.
14. Should I contact the Treasurer's office with a name/address change or a Principal Residence Exemption affidavit?
Ans: You should contact the Assessing office with those requests for tax changes. Each requires a form filled out and return to the Assessing department.
15. When are taxes due if September 14 or February 28 falls on a legal holiday or on a weekend day?
Ans: You have until the next business day to pay. For example, if summer taxes are due September 14 and that day falls on Saturday or Sunday, you could pay the next Monday without having to pay penalties.
16. How come my escrow company said they paid on one date, but your office doesn't show it paid or it was much later than when the escrow company said they paid?
Ans: Many mortgage/escrow companies use a couple of tax service companies. The two largest are Transamerican Real Estate Tax Service and First American Real Estate Tax Services. These companies sometimes hold payments and combine them with others before sending to the Treasurer.
17. Am I responsible to pay interest or penalties if my escrow company doesn't pay on time?
Ans: No. They are responsible and should not charge you. This year there is a summer tax bill. It is their responsibility to know this and make payment from your account.