At Township Hall, Located at 44405 Six Mile Rd. in Northville Township. Meetings start at 7PM, the third Thursday of every month (or as otherwise noted).

The Building Department is primarily supported by permit revenue.

Homeowner Association approval may be required prior to construction of decks, additions, detached structures, fences or exterior alterations. Contact your Association for more information. Limited Homeowner Association content information may be available through the Building Department or by calling 248-348-5830.

Additions, moving an interior wall, relocating an electrical outlet, furnace replacement, central air replacement, water heater replacement, relocating plumbing, relocating mechanical duct work, finished basement, new decks, new fence, new patio, exterior fireplace or fire features. Requirement sheets for projects needing a permit are listed here.

Tile, carpet, cabinet replacement, flooring, driveway & sidewalk replacement, roof repair, siding, deck repair ' if not structural. If you are not sure, please contact the Building Department at (248)348-5830.

Code related questions may be addressed by the appropriate inspector between 8:00am - 9:00 a.m.

No, you must contact the inspector in the morning from 8:00am - 8:30am to discuss when the inspector will be available.

Inspections should be scheduled after the rough & final stages of construction.

• Schedule an inspection

You must schedule an inspection prior to 3:30pm for a next day inspection.

On a new home the inspector does not need to meet with you as long as the house is open for the inspector. However, if you call for an inspection on your existing home for additions renovations, etc., it is necessary for an 18-year-old adult to be home to meet the inspector and show the inspector the permit and the area where the improvement is located.

Building codes currently in effect

Setbacks are based on the Township Zoning Ordinance, Article 18 Schedule of Regulations. The setbacks will depend on your zoning district. Please contact the Building Department for details.

Early Voting – All Northville Township voters can vote during the nine day early voting period at Township Hall. 

Election Day – Voting locations for the Township are Township Hall, Moraine Elementary, Silver Springs Elementary, Northville High School, Winchester Elementary, Meads Mill Middle School, and Ridge Wood Elementary. View the voting locations and precinct map.

If you are not sure where you are to vote in this year's election(s), contact the Clerk's office or check online at the Michigan Voter Information Center.

You can register to vote, in person, at the Township Clerk's office, located at 44405 Six Mile Road, or by visiting any Secretary of State branch office. You can also register, by mail, by completing and sending a mail in registration form to the Township Clerk's office.

Further questions can be directed to the Clerk's Office at (248) 348-5825 or email the Township Clerk.

Visit, call 248-348-5800 ext. 41010 or email the Township Clerk's office, or visit the Michigan Voter Information Center online to confirm your registration status.

West Nile is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord).

Most people who are infected with West Nile virus either have no symptoms or experience mild illness such as a fever, headache and body aches before fully recovering. Some persons may develop a mild rash or swollen lymph glands. In some individuals, particularly the elderly, West Nile virus can cause serious disease that affect brain tissue. At its most serious, it can cause permanent neurological damage and can be fatal. Symptoms of encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) include the rapid onset of severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, loss of consciousness (coma), or muscle weakness, and may be fatal.

Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing or slow-moving water such as streams or creeks. Weeds, tall grass, and bushes provide an outdoor home for mosquitoes. They can enter homes through unscreened windows or doors, or broken screens.

• Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace all screens that have tears and holes.
• Drain all standing water in the yard. Empty water from mosquito breeding sites, such as flower pots, pet bowls, clogged rain gutters, swimming pool covers, discarded tires and similar sites in which mosquitoes can lay eggs.
• Remind or help neighbors to eliminate breeding sites on their properties.

Information above was provided by the Michigan Department of Community Health from the Pamphlet "What is West Nile Virus?"

For additional information: Michigan West Nile Virus Hotline (888) 668-0869 or www.michigan.gov/mdch or www.cdc.gov.

You can also pickup a handout at:

Northville Township Finance Department
44405 Six Mile Rd.
Northville, MI. 48168

Contact these agencies:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: (888) 246-2675
• The Michigan Department of Community Health's West Nile Hotline: (888) 668-0869
• Each Metro Detroit county health agency also operates a hot line for West Nile Calls.
  • Wayne County: (734) 727-7445
  • Oakland County: (248) 858-8011
  • Macomb County: (586) 469-5236
  • Livingston County: (517) 546-9850

For the current tax year please pay at the Finance Department at the Township Hall, located at 44405 Six Mile Rd. in Northville Township.

For delinquent taxes please pay at the Wayne County Treasurer, located at The International Center Building, 400 Monroe ' 5th floor, Detroit, MI 48226 or at www.treasurer.waynecounty.com.

At the Finance Department at the Township Hall, located at 44405 Six Mile Rd. in Northville Township.

With Automatic Bill Payment, you can have your water and sewer bill automatically paid from any participating bank, savings and loan, or credit union account. Just complete the form, return it, and start enjoying many benefits.

Sign up for Automatic Bill Payment

Contact these agencies:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: (888) 246-2675
• The Michigan Department of Community Health's West Nile Hotline: (888) 668-0869
• Each Metro Detroit county health agency also operates a hot line for West Nile Calls.
  • Wayne County: (734) 727-7445
  • Oakland County: (248) 858-8011
  • Macomb County: (586) 469-5236
  • Livingston County: (517) 546-9850

Fences located on lots greater than two (2) acres in size shall be subject to the following standards.

Fences abutting a road shall comply with the following standards.

• Fences shall not exceed four (4) feet in height. Decorative projections are permitted along the top of the fence, provided the total height of the projections and fence do not exceed 54”.
• Fences shall not obstruct vision by more than 25% when viewed perpendicular to the plane of the fence. The open areas shall be evenly distributed over the total area of the fence.
• Fences shall be setback a distance equal to the front yard setback required for the zoning district, regardless of which yard abuts the road.

Fences that do not abut a road shall comply with the following standards.

• Fences shall not exceed six (6) feet in height.
• Fences shall not obstruct vision by more than 50% when viewed from any particular plane, such as lattice or a shadowbox style.

Fences on lots two (2) acres or less in size shall be subject to the following standards.

Fences located in the front yard shall comply with the following standards.

• Fences shall not exceed 36 inches in height.
• Fence segments shall not exceed 20 feet in length.
• Fence segments shall be at least ten (10) feet apart.
• The total length of all fence segments shall not exceed a combined total of 100 feet.
• Fences shall not obstruct vision by more than 50% when viewed perpendicular to the plane of the fence. The open areas shall be evenly distributed over the total area of the fence.

Fences located in a side or rear yard shall comply with the following standards.

• Fences shall not exceed four (4) feet in height. Decorative projections are permitted along the top of the fence, provided the total height of the projections and fence do not exceed 54”.
• Fences shall not obstruct vision by more than 50% when viewed perpendicular to the plane of the fence. The open areas shall be evenly distributed over the total area of the fence.

Privacy Screens

• Privacy screens shall not be located more than 16’ beyond the rear building line and shall not be located within the required side yard.
• Privacy screens shall be limited to two sides of the area it is screening.
• Privacy screens shall not exceed five (5) feet in height, as measured from the bottom of the privacy screen.
• Privacy screens shall not obstruct vision by more than 75% when viewed from a particular plane of the fence. The open areas shall be evenly distributed over the total area of the fence.

Certain types of home occupations are permitted within single family zoning districts (R-1, R-2, R-3 & R-4).

Home Occupation Requirements

• Home occupations shall not be noticeable from the exterior of the dwelling.
• Traffic and delivery of goods shall not exceed what is normally created by residential uses.
• No more than two clients or customers may be on the premises at any time.
• Employees must be a resident of the home.
• Additional vehicles may not be parked on or near the premises.
• Home occupations shall not occupy more than 25% of the total floor area of the structure, including an attached garage.
• Home occupations are not permitted within accessory structures.
• Day care facilities may provide care for up to 6 children.
• No retail or other sales shall be permitted except for products produced within the dwelling.

Lots may be split provided the parent parcel and all resultant lots comply with dimensional requirements of the zoning district in which the parcels are located and all of the following standards identified below. Land division, land combination and land reconfiguration applications are reviewed administratively for compliance with the standards contained in Article 34 of the zoning ordinance. The application for a land division, land combination or parcel reconfiguration can be downloaded and printed from our Forms page.

• The depth to width ratio of the lot shall not exceed 3:1.
• Each parcel must meet the minimum lot width as required by Article 18 of the zoning ordinance.
• The lot width must be met exclusive of any easement for a private driveway or road.
• Each lot must meet the minimum lot area for the zoning district, or the median lot size of all parcels within 500’ of the subject parcel, whichever is greater.
• All lots must have access to a public street, private road or shared driveway.
• Necessary easements for public utilities, non-motorized pathways, or other required public facilities must be provided.

Development applications are available from our forms page on the township website or from the planning department between the hours of 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.

The easiest way to view the township’s zoning ordinance is online. A hard copy or CD can be purchased for $25. Please contact the planning department at 248-348-5800 to request a copy be made.

Zoning Map

All parcels within the township are assigned a zoning classification. Zoning classifications are identified on the zoning map.

Zoning Map

A building permit or zoning compliance permit is required based on the height of the proposed fence. In addition to township requirements, many HOA's have more stringent requirements.

A maximum of three pets are permitted per residence on lots up to two acres in size, and within condominium or multiple family residential developments. A maximum of five pets are permitted per residence for those living on parcels greater than two acres. Regulations regarding specific animals permitted are provided in Chapter 53 Animals, of the township’s code of ordinances.

Unless otherwise required as part of the deed restrictions or homeowners association, the township does not require a permit to cut down trees on residential property when an existing home occupies a lot. However, if a new home is being constructed on a lot, tree replacement per the township's woodland ordinance may be required. If you have additional questions regarding the township's tree replacement requirements, please contact the planning department at (248) 348-5800.

In accordance with state law, Township Zoning Act Public Act 184 of 1943 as amended, adjacent properties within 300' of a proposed zoning variance, rezoning and special land use are notified via regular mail 7 days prior to a scheduled meeting. A rezoning is the act of changing a specified parcel from its current zoning classification to another classification, whereby changing the types of uses permitted and requirements. A special land use is a use that may be appropriate in certain locations but due to their more intense nature requires a greater level of review criteria and a public hearing to ensure compatibility with the surrounding area.

If you are interested in receiving Planning Commission agendas, Zoning Board of Appeals agendas or other planning related information via email, click here to subscribe to the development and planning mailing list.

Please visit the Records Request section of our website for more information.

Normally, yes. We love to talk with both children and adults about our department and the services that we provide.  Please call (248) 348-5807 to schedule a tour. However, due to COVID-19 we have not been able to conduct station tours and fire safety talks at the fire department.

While we attempt to honor your request, there are a variety of factors that we take into account. The primary consideration is based off the patient condition and our protocols that outline our treatments and actions. However, when a patient is stable and transport location is not based on severity and protocol, we will consider time of day, weather conditions, traffic, and road construction in our determination.

Yes. We attempt to accommodate requests for public education events and will work with you on your individual request. In general, we focus on providing fire safety speakers and vehicles to local schools, businesses, churches, and homeowner’s groups.  Please call (248) 348-5807 to submit your request.

The Northville Township Fire Department is staffed with on-duty firefighter/paramedics, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The department is broken down into three (3) shifts with firefighters that work 24 hours from 8:00 am until 8:00 am the following day.

Smoke detectors typically fall within two categories: photoelectric and ionization. When it comes to disposal, old photoelectric detectors can be safely put in the trash, so long as you remove the battery first. For ionization detectors, detectors that contain a small amount of Americium 241 (a radioactive isotope) should be disposed of during your local household hazardous waste day or by sending the detector back to the manufacturer in accordance with their requirements.

Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, in the hallway outside each bedroom, and on every floor of your home. If you have further questions, please click here for more information or contact us at (248) 348-5807.

There are several fire extinguisher service companies listed in the Yellow Pages or on the internet. Our department does not recommend a specific provider. Click here for a Google search of fire extinguisher service companies near Northville, MI.

A Knox-Box is a secure, key-safe that contains keys to local homes and businesses. The fire department has master keys that are unique to Northville Township only and allow access to these key boxes. These boxes allow our department access your home or building during a fire alarm or medical emergency without having to damage your home. For more information on our Knox-Box program, please click here.

Yes. We have a number certified technicians to assist you with the installation of your child’s car seat. Installations are by appointment only so please call (248) 348-5807 to schedule your appointment or please click here for more information.

The Northville Township Fire Department recognizes the importance of bystander CPR in an emergency and we are happy to provide “hands-only” non-certification training to the community. Please visit us at the Learn CPR section of the website for more information.

Contact the Police Department about a missing pet.

West Nile is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord).

That depends. If today is the first Saturday of the month at 1 p.m. then this activation is most likely part of the monthly one-minute test of the early warning system, which features a loud "whooping" sound.  During this period, our residents are reminded NOT to call 911 when the siren is sounded unless there is an actual emergency. However, if it is not the first Saturday of the month at 1 p.m. then the early warning system was activated due to severe weather in our area. Severe weather siren activations will sound for three minutes. Please keep in mind that these sirens are activated during any severe weather, not just a tornado warning. Dangerous winds and conditions can occur outside of actual tornado events.

Absolutely! A carbon monoxide alarm can detect and alert you of the presence of CO in your home.  CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause injury or death if not recognized.  Installing CO alarms on every floor of your home is the best way to protect yourself and your family from this deadly gas. For more information please click here.

Locate the carbon monoxide detector that has activated and provide the display reading to the 911 dispatcher. They will advise you to exit the home until the Fire Department has arrived. The Fire Department is equipped with portable detectors that can monitor CO levels inside your home. Once they have investigated the source of the detector activation they will provide guidance for what actions should be taken next. Click here for more information.

Most people who are infected with West Nile virus either have no symptoms or experience mild illness such as a fever, headache and body aches before fully recovering. Some persons may develop a mild rash or swollen lymph glands. In some individuals, particularly the elderly, West Nile virus can cause serious disease that affect brain tissue. At its most serious, it can cause permanent neurological damage and can be fatal. Symptoms of encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) include the rapid onset of severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, confusion, loss of consciousness (coma), or muscle weakness, and may be fatal.

Call 911 immediately. The 911 dispatcher will gather all of the necessary information and will dispatch the appropriate units to assist you during this emergency.  Based on the information provided, our emergency dispatchers will provide you with directions on what to do next and they will dispatch the proper resources. For most medical calls a Northville Township engine and ambulance will respond. Each of our engines and ambulances will be staffed with two (2) paramedics to provide the necessary Advanced Life Support (ALS) treatment. Our 911 dispatchers are Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) certified to prioritize emergencies and to dispatch the appropriate fire department resources.

Our department sends at least two (2) units (fire engine and a rescue) on almost every medical call so that we can be prepared to handle the current emergency based on the information we receive. There are a variety of considerations that go into this decision based on the tasks required to provide a high-level of emergency medical response, including:

1. Appropriate amount of personnel. Our fire engines are fully equipped with all of the necessary advanced life support (ALS) equipment as our rescues, but do not have the ability to transport. While the actual fire engine may not be necessary on this emergency incident, it’s important to understand that the personnel from that vehicle are critical to the appropriate treatment and transport.
2. Cross-trained staff. All department personnel are cross-trained in a variety of disciplines including fire suppression, advanced life support medical service, hazardous materials response, vehicle extrication and various other rescue operations including water and ice rescue, trench collapse and machine rescue. This multi-unit response allows our department to provide the highest level of care to our citizens and visitors.
3. Information. When an emergency occurs, many callers can leave out important information when contacting 911.The stress of the emergency may cause callers to leave out important information about the severity of the emergency. By responding with multiple units, our department is prepared to handle the emergency rather than have to request additional units to respond when time is of the essence.
4. Dynamic environments. On every medical emergency, we attempt to provide the appropriate amount of work force to handle the incident. This includes providing high quality medical care and transport, information gathering, assisting the family or witnesses, lifting and moving patients and more. Additionally, emergency medical incidents are dynamic situations and having the proper resources helps us provide the most efficient and effective service.
5. Extended travel times. Because of the extended travel times within the Township it is important for additional personnel resources to respond with our rescues. This proactive response reduces treatment delays and improves outcomes.
6. The next incident. Based on our staffing and incident volume it’s important to be prepared for the next incident regardless of the type of emergency or its location. With a single station operation (located across from Northville High School), we have extended travel times across the community.

Bonfire is a specific term for a type of outdoor fire. In general, Northville Township does allow Recreational Burning as long as it complies with the International Fire Code, Northville Township Ordinances and general fire safety regulations. This means that the fire is less than three feet in diameter and two feet in height and it’s at least 25 feet from any combustible material including homes, decks, etc. There are many other guidelines for the use of portable patio heaters, propane or natural gas fire pits, etc. Under no circumstances can you burn brush, yard waste or other debris. For more information or to review Northville Township’s Open Burning Guidelines, please click here.

Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing or slow-moving water such as streams or creeks. Weeds, tall grass, and bushes provide an outdoor home for mosquitoes. They can enter homes through unscreened windows or doors, or broken screens.

• Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace all screens that have tears and holes.
• Drain all standing water in the yard. Empty water from mosquito breeding sites, such as flower pots, pet bowls, clogged rain gutters, swimming pool covers, discarded tires and similar sites in which mosquitoes can lay eggs.
• Remind or help neighbors to eliminate breeding sites on their properties.

Information above was provided by the Michigan Department of Community Health from the Pamphlet "What is West Nile Virus?"

For additional information: Michigan West Nile Virus Hotline (888) 668-0869 or www.michigan.gov/mdch or www.cdc.gov.

You can also pickup a handout at:

Northville Township Finance Department
44405 Six Mile Rd.
Northville, MI. 48168

After a storm Detroit Edison works to address power lines that create a hazardous environment first. They prioritize their responses based on whether or not there are threats to life or property. When the safety factors have been addressed, Detroit Edison works as quickly as possible to restore power. Please visit Outage Center | DTE Energy for updates on your outage. The fire department does not have the ability to expedite the return of your power, but can assist you if there is an immediate hazard due to down power lines, etc.

Keep an eye out for upcoming Wayne County sponsored Household Hazardous Waste Collection days. The county hosts four (4) collection dates per year and are designed to accept unwanted household chemicals for proper disposal and electronics for recycling. Please click the following link to be taken to the Wayne County website to view upcoming events. Household Hazardous Waste Program | Environmental Services (waynecounty.com)

Contact these agencies:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: (888) 246-2675
• The Michigan Department of Community Health's West Nile Hotline: (888) 668-0869
• Each Metro Detroit county health agency also operates a hot line for West Nile Calls.
  • Wayne County: (734) 727-7445
  • Oakland County: (248) 858-8011
  • Macomb County: (586) 469-5236
  • Livingston County: (517) 546-9850

Please place your refuse and recycling cart in the street, close to the curb or next to your driveway approach. Please see the diagrams on the Guidelines for Cart Placement showing how carts should be set out for collection. If you live along a major thoroughfare where no parking is allowed on the street (such as Six Mile Road) then please do not place your container in the street. Place it on the edge of your property close to the curb.

It must be out by 7 a.m. on the day of collection, but no earlier than 6 p.m. the preceding evening.

No. Yard waste will continue to be collected separately, in paper compost bags or 32-35 gallon cans with a 50 pound weight limit marked 'Yard Waste.'

The weekly solid waste cart has a black lid. Place bagged material in the cart, close the lid, tilt the cart using the handle and wheel the cart to the street with the arrow on the lid facing the street. The bi-weekly recycle cart has a gray lid with acceptable recycle materials embedded on the lid. Place appropriate clean recycled materials directly in the cart, they can be comingled and there is no need to separate paper, glass or cans. They will be sorted at the recycling processing facility. However, shredded paper should be placed in plastic bags in the cart and tied to avoid spillage while emptying. Recycle carts should be placed at the street similar to the solid waste cart.

Bulky items, such as a couch or appliance, will still be picked up at the curbside for disposal. Please place the bulky item at least 3 feet away from your cart. A separate bulk materials vehicle will pick up these items by the end of your trash collection day. No commercial items will be picked up.

The carts belong to Northville Township. Call GFL Environmental to transfer your account and leave the carts at the home, in a garage if available. The Township may charge for missing carts that need to be replaced.

Place your full cart at the curbside. You may also place additional items in appropriate containers or plastic bags adjacent to your cart for pickup. Do not put garbage bags on top of the cart. If your household generates more trash than fits into the cart, you may request an additional cart at no cost by contacting GFL Environmental at 844-464-3587.

For replacement for a damaged tote/cart, please call GFL at 1-844-464-3587.

Northville Township renewed the contract with Duncan Disposal Services (South Lyon Based) on March 1, 2016 to extend the contract until June 30, 2022 for solid waste collection. Duncan Disposal was acquired by Rizzo Environmental Services (Sterling Heights Based) on July 22, 2016. The Board of Trustees approved the continuation of the contract to Rizzo Environmental Services. On October 3, 2016 it was announced that GFL Environmental Services (Green For Life) acquired Rizzo Environmental Services. The Board of Trustees approved the continuation of the contract to GFL Environmental Services. The rate remains the same of $14.00 per month for Solid Waste Collection, Recycling and yard waste pick up. GFL bills directly to residents on a bi-annual basis, please contact GFL for payment options and balances. See Solid Waste Collection for more details on GFL Environmental and pickup guidelines.

GFL Environmental USA Inc.
39000 Van Born Rd
Wayne MI 48184
1-844-464-3587

Please check here on our website. Household Hazardous Waste Events are being held throughout the year from April thru October.

Please contact GFL Environmental to schedule a repair. If necessary, a replacement cart will be delivered.

The penalties applied are in adherence to a Board of Trustees approved policy. This policy was updated at the December, 2020 Board of Trustees meeting to allow for a grace period after the due date before penalties are assessed. Payments must be received by 4:30 pm on the business day prior to the penalty assessed date. Penalties incurred will not be waived.

Full Payment Schedule

Some of the causes of high water usage are toilet tank flappers not sealing, irrigation system leaks, dripping faucets and shower heads, and excessive lawn watering. A dripping faucet can waste 15 gallons of water per day. Replace worn and leaking washers, gaskets, pipes or defective fixtures. Check for leaks on outside faucets, and make sure the valve closes properly.

Check toilets for leaks as they are the most common cause of high bills. Check the overflow of the tank to make sure no water is running over (float level may be set too high). The flapper valve in the bottom of the tank is also a location of possible leaking toilet. To check for a flapper valve leak, put a small amount of food coloring in the toilet tank after it has filled. Do not flush the toilet for a few hours, preferably overnight. If the food coloring shows up in the bowl without flushing, this indicates a leaking flapper or plunger ball valve.

Check water heaters, humidifiers and sump pumps for additional leaks. Check humidifier settings on furnaces. Make sure your lawn is not overwatered. Often a large portion of water applied to a lawn is not absorbed because too much water is applied at once. You can control this by using a scheduled soak cycle. For instance, instead of watering each lawn zone for 15 minutes, residents can water each zone for five minutes or less in three cycles. By leaving an hour between zone start times, lawns will have the best retention of water and avoid run-off.

Water meters are an important conservation tool. In addition to providing information about how much water is being used, reading the meter can also help detect leaks in the household plumbing.

1. To check for a leak first turn off all faucets inside and outside the house. Be certain the toilet is not flushed and the automatic ice cube maker is not in operation when performing this task.
2. When the water is turned off, the low flow indicator should not move. Depending on the type of meter, the indicator is a black or red triangle or a plus (+) sign.

Your source water comes from the Detroit River and the various rivers and watersheds that feed to the Detroit River. There are four Detroit water treatment plants that use source water from the Detroit River to provide treatment of this source water to meet drinking water standards.

The treatment plants operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The treatment process begins with disinfecting the source water with Chlorine to kill microorganisms that can cause illness. Next a chemical called Alum is mixed with the water to remove the fine particles that make the water cloudy. Alum causes the particles to clump together and settle to the bottom. Fluoride is also added to protect our teeth from cavities and decay. The water then flows thru fine sand filters called beds. These filters removed even more particles and certain microorganisms that are resistant to Chlorine. Finally, a small amount of Phosphoric Acid and Chlorine are added to the treated water just before it leaves the treatment plant. The Phosphoric Acid helps control any lead that may dissolve in water from household plumbing systems. The Chlorine keeps the water disinfected as it travels through water mains to reach your home.

In addition to carefully controlled and monitored treatment process, the water is tested for a variety of substances before treatment, during various states of treatment and throughout the distribution system. Samples are tested each week throughout the system in the Great Lakes Water Authority’s (GLWA) certified laboratory. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prescribes regulations, which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. This report is produced annually for each community.

Water Quality Report

Billing Page

Once you agree to the disclaimer a search window will open. Near the top select Search: Utility Billing then By: Address. Please type in the house number and first three letters of the street then click on Search. Find then click on the appropriate account. You will see the Amount Due on that next webpage.

If you have recently signed up for Autopay and provided an email address, please check your email for our response. If you do not see an email from us you can look on your next bill for the message 'ACH PAYMENT ' DO NOT PAY' or call us at 248-348-5820.

Some of the causes of high water usage are toilet tank flappers not sealing, irrigation system leaks, dripping faucets and shower heads, and excessive lawn watering. A dripping faucet can waste 15 gallons of water per day. Replace worn and leaking washers, gaskets, pipes or defective fixtures. Check for leaks on outside faucets, and make sure the valve closes properly. Check toilets for leaks as they are the most common cause of high bills. Check the overflow of the tank to make sure no water is running over (float level may be set too high). The flapper valve in the bottom of the tank is also a location of a possible leaking toilet. To check for a flapper valve leak, put a small amount of food coloring in the toilet tank after it has filled. Do not flush the toilet for at least an hour, or overnight if possible. If the food coloring shows up in the bowl without flushing, this indicates a leaking flapper or plunger ball valve.

Water meters are an important conservation tool. In addition to providing information about how much water is being used, reading the meter can also help detect leaks in the household plumbing.

1. To check for a leak first turn off all faucets inside and outside the house. Be certain the toilet is not flushed and the automatic ice cube maker is not operating when performing this task.
2. When the water is turned off, the low flow indicator should not move. Depending on the type of meter, the indicator is a black or red triangle. See the indicator location on the meter.

In order to determine your average daily use or check your sprinkler usage, you can read your meter on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis. Simply record your meter reading at the beginning of a measurement period and again at the end period. The difference between the two meter reading will be the water used (in gallons) during that period.

How to Read Your Water Meter

The Township's water consumption records are used to calculate the Township's sewage disposal costs. The actual wastewater costs are simply spread over the number of gallons of water purchased. The cost of purchasing a second meter, making internal plumbing changes and added Township overhead costs to maintain and read meters negates the financial benefit of a second meter.

Cloudiness that clears from the bottom of a glass of water after it sits is actually dissolved oxygen in the water. This may be more noticeable in the winter months when there are greater temperature changes and less usage in the water system. Localized turbidity events can also occur from water main flushing within the distribution system. When this occurs, wait until the water clears (usually within a few hours) or flush taps until it runs clear again. Running taps for a just few minutes is usually enough to let the sediment flush out of the system.

At the Township Hall, located at 44405 Six Mile Rd. in Northville Township. You can pay at the cashier's desk inside the building, or outside at the drive up window or drop box located on the west side of the building. You can also sign up for Automatic Bill Payment.

In an effort to streamline billing practices, Northville Township Water and Sewer department began mailing all residential accounts to 'occupant' starting with the October 2015 bill. This change was due to a number of factors including; compatibility with computer programs, decreasing the amount of returned mail from USPS, and for more efficient account management.

Fixed rates are charged to your bill regardless of use. Starting in 2010 our water provider began charging fixed rates to cover costs for personnel, infrastructure, and maintenance. This fixed rate is for ready to serve water and/or sewer services at the location. Even if you are out of town and there is no usage, fixed fees will be allocated on your bi-monthly bill.

Northville Township purchases water from the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA), not Detroit Water and Sewer. Purchase cost is based on three factors: distance from the water treatment plant, elevation difference between the plant and our service area, and the ratio of the peak hour to average day demand. These factors apply to all communities that are customers of GLWA.

The Township is at the western edge of Wayne County, this makes it one of the furthest communities from the water treatment plant. The community also has the highest elevation of any community in Wayne County. Both of these factors affect costs. Northville Township is a predominately residential community with a small industrial/commercial base (large water users) to offset peak periods. These reasons affect Northville Township's rate compared to other communities that do not have these factors.

Our community can reduce usage during peak hour period (4AM-9AM) by following the outdoor water restrictions guidelines listed in the ordinances and continuing to adhere to the odd/even day watering schedule. Northville Township has built and continues to utilize an elevated tank located near Five Mile and Beck Roads to help reduce usage of GLWA supplied water during peak times.

For more information click on the link for 'Water and Sewer Forum' held on Sept. 11, 2015.

The cost to treat wastewater (sewage) is based on water consumption. Every year, the total cost for sewage treatment and transportation is determined. That cost is then divided by the total amount of water sold to establish a sewage rate based on water usage. This is true of every Wayne County community whose sewage is treated by and water supplied by Great Lake Water Authority (GLWA).

If a community chooses to remove the sewage charge component from an irrigation (external) meter, the cost must be made up by increasing the rate charged for domestic (internal) water use. If residents had dual meters, (including those in commons areas of subdivisions) and were not charged the sewage component, the cost of water for every household/user would increase. The Board has debated this issue and determined that this change would increase the cost for customers/residents that do not significantly irrigate and discourage water conservation.

In addition, there is a cost to modify internal plumbing and install the second meter, unique for each resident/customer. Communities that have adopted a dual meter policy have found few people request the second meter.

The Board has determined this reallocation of cost with a dual meter is of no value. The potential for increased outdoor water use and the likely increased administration to install, read and bill additional water meters would increase every customer's bill.

If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Safe drinking water is a shared responsibility. Lead can leach into drinking water through home plumbing fixtures and in some cases, customer service lines. Corrosion control reduces the risk of lead and copper from leaching into your water. Water consumers also have a responsibility to maintain the plumbing in their homes and businesses, and can take steps to limit their exposure to lead. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. Using cold water, instead of hot water for drinking and cooking will also help minimize the potential for lead exposure. Lead is colorless, odorless and tasteless.

If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800) 426-4791 or at www.epa.gov/safewater/lead or calling the National Lead Information Center at (800) 425-LEAD.

Northville Township purchases water from the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA), not Detroit Water and Sewer. Purchase cost is based on three factors: distance from the water treatment plant, elevation difference between the plant and our service area, and the ratio of the peak hour to average day demand. These factors apply to all communities that are customers of GLWA.

The Township is at the western edge of Wayne County, this makes it one of the furthest communities from the water treatment plant. The community also has the highest elevation of any community in Wayne County. Both of these factors affect costs. Northville Township is a predominately residential community with a small industrial/commercial base (large water users) to offset peak periods. These reasons affect Northville Township's rate compared to other communities that do not have these factors.

Our community can reduce usage during peak hour period (4AM-9AM) by following the outdoor water restrictions guidelines listed in the ordinances and continuing to adhere to the odd/even day watering schedule. Northville Township has built and continues to utilize an elevated tank located near Five Mile and Beck Roads to help reduce usage of GLWA supplied water during peak times.

For more information click on the link for 'Water and Sewer Forum' held on Sept. 11, 2015.

If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Safe drinking water is a shared responsibility. Lead can leach into drinking water through home plumbing fixtures and in some cases, customer service lines. Corrosion control reduces the risk of lead and copper from leaching into your water. Water consumers also have a responsibility to maintain the plumbing in their homes and businesses, and can take steps to limit their exposure to lead. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. Using cold water, instead of hot water for drinking and cooking will also help minimize the potential for lead exposure. Lead is colorless, odorless and tasteless.

No. Yard waste will continue to be collected separately, in paper compost bags or 32-35 gallon cans with a 50 pound weight limit marked 'Yard Waste.'

The penalties applied are in adherence to a Board of Trustees approved policy. This policy was updated at the December, 2020 Board of Trustees meeting to allow for a grace period after the due date before penalties are assessed. Payments must be received by 4:30 pm on the business day prior to the penalty assessed date. Penalties incurred will not be waived.

Full Payment Schedule

In order to determine your average daily use or check your sprinkler usage, you can read your meter on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis. Simply record your meter reading at the beginning of a measurement period and again at the end period. The difference between the two meter reading will be the water used (in gallons) during that period.

How to Read Your Water Meter

Please contact the water and sewer department at 248-348-5820, to report any issues.

The Following Services are provided.

• Referrals to professional social service agencies
• Referrals to community service sites for high school students
• On-site counseling of youths and families by a master's level social worker

You can call Youth Network at (248) 344-1618 or send an email.

All residents of the city of Northville, the Charter Township of Northville and the Northville School District are eligible for the programs. All services are free.

Parents, teachers, school social workers and other concerned members of the community are all encouraged to refer students to NYN.

A variance is an approved deviation from the required provisions of the Zoning Ordinance. It may include modification to dimensional requirements such as minimum lot sizes, setbacks and building height or it may permit the variation of site plan review standards.

The ZBA may approve a variance if the criteria under Article 41, Zoning Board of Appeals, have been met by the applicant. The burden of proving that the criteria have been met is placed on the applicant. A request that could potentially meet the variance criteria may be denied if the application fails to prove that they have been met.

No. Variances are intended to be difficult to obtain since they run contrary to the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance. There may be unusual circumstances, however, where the Zoning Ordinance is unnecessarily burdensome. Under these circumstances, variances are intended to provide relief to the applicant when the specific criteria are met.

A majority vote (four members) is required to approve any request made to the Zoning Board of Appeals. If only four members are present at a particular meeting, all four affirmative votes must be received.

All variance requests are reviewed and acted upon by the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), unless otherwise prohibited by a development agreement. This is a seven member board of citizens appointed by the Northville Township Board of Trustees for fixed terms. The ZBA has the discretionary authority to allow variances if certain conditions are met.

Variance applications are handled by the Northville Township Building Department, located at 44405 Six Mile Road. Applications can be obtained during normal business hours (from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday) or downloaded and printed from our Forms page. The Planning staff is available to answer questions regarding ordinance regulations and variances.