Michigan Land Use and Zoning
Lakefront property owner wins disputed strip of land
Michigan courts once again shines the spotlight on the significance of a plat in lakefront property disputes. The case of Saunders v. Rhodes (decided June 18, 2020) started with a dispute between two property owners over a strip of land abutting Chippewa Lake, in Mecosta […]
Read MoreKnow your (water) rights before purchasing that lakefront home
Land use attorney highlights eight considerations when buying waterfront property Media Contacts: Barbara Fornasiero, EAFocus Communications; barbara@eafocus.com; 248.260.8466; Daniel Dalton; ddalton@daltontomich.com; 248.229.2329 Detroit—June 23, 2020—Outdoor recreation seekers are flocking to the water now that summer is here and states have begun relaxing their COVID-19 restrictions, […]
Read MoreThe Reality of Racism and Zoning
The news of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor is now part of the collective conscious of America. The senseless deaths has brought the reality of racism into our lives and shaken us to a core. Racism is not new in zoning. Studies have confirmed […]
Read MoreMichigan Court Provides More Guidance for Aggrieved Parties
To challenge a local planning or zoning decision in Michigan, one must generally qualify as an “aggrieved party.” Unfortunately, Michigan courts have interpreted the “aggrieved party” term narrowly. This has made it difficult for concerned citizens to challenge problematic decisions in court. However, the Michigan […]
Read MoreCourt of Appeals Overturns Variance for Cell Tower
Any attorney who has appealed a land use or zoning decision in Michigan knows that courts are hesitant to overturn the decisions of local ZBAs or planning commissions. One recent case gives a roadmap of what a successful challenge to a local planning decision can […]
Read MoreHow Can I Win Planning Commission Approval?
Winning a recommendation of approval from a local planning commission comes down to a few key areas, as planning commission veteran and land use and zoning attorney Larry Opalewski explains in this video. Tips to help you win planning commission approval: Prepare a thorough and […]
Read MoreHow Do Courts Enforce Restrictive Covenants or Deed Restrictions?
Restrictive covenants, sometimes called “deed restrictions,” restrict the free use of land and are generally disfavored by courts. They are however generally enforceable, as Detroit-based land use and zoning attorney Larry Opalewski explains in this video. Key facts about restrictive covenants or deed restriction enforcement […]
Read MoreThe Basics of Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) in Michigan
The typical zoning ordinance is written in such a way as to encourage different kinds of developments to follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Realizing this problem, the Michigan legislature allowed for more variety and flexibility in zoning. Today, developers can take advantage of the Planned Unit […]
Read More“Partying” on the Lake — The Power of Dedication Language in a Subdivision Plat
Recorded about 80 years ago, the dedication language in a plat became the subject of a lawsuit which made it the Michigan Court of Appeals 3 years ago (Yuska v. Hasler). Yuska v. Hasler serves as a reminder that dedication language in a plat could […]
Read MoreWho is responsible for trees on a property line in Michigan?
One of the most common questions we receive on property line or easement related question is who is a responsible for trees on a property line. Imagine the scenario where you own land and have a tree near the property line. A large branch grows […]
Read MoreAbout Us
The attorneys of Dalton & Tomich, PLC have the experience and the knowledge to work with you to develop a legal solution that helps accomplish your goals. Our collaborative approach has helped leaders like you grow businesses and banks, develop and expand churches, and build nonprofit organizations nationwide.
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Mitchell CorderAdministrative Bishop Church of God, Tennessee
In my role as Administrative Bishop for the Church of God, quite often we are faced with issues that involve local governments and municipalities. Many of these issues that arise in dealing with entities are land use related. I have found Dalton & Tomich’s experience and expertise in this area to be a valuable resource and asset in every situation.
Tim RhodusLead Pastor, Cross Church Carlinville & Staunton, IL
Never one time during a year-long litigation process did Dalton & Tomich demonstrate anything other than Christ-like professionalism. They managed the legal details, while we continued to do church. How they managed themselves, managed our case, and represented our church set the table for me and our church to be where we are today.
Ronnie HolmesSenior Pastor, Church of the Open Door, Waco, TX
Dalton & Tomich’s expertise and experience helped us through a very difficult legal journey, ultimately achieving a favorable outcome. Their personal interest in helping us went “above and beyond” just the call of duty.