Registration open for MSU Extension’s 2027 Zoning Administrator Certificate Program
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EmailThis award-winning program returns in 2027 with two location options for participants to choose from.
Each year, Michigan State University Extension offers the Zoning Administrator Certificate (ZAC) Program to provide training in zoning administration techniques that reduce legal risks for zoning administrators and their communities. Registration is now open for the 2027 program, which will be offered at two locations to expand access for local government professionals across Michigan.
The in-person portions of the program will be held in Bay City and at Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville, giving participants the flexibility to select a location and schedule that best fits their needs. The Bay City session will take place Feb. 11–12, 2027, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bay City – Riverfront, with online learning available Jan. 26–Feb. 10, 2027. The Crystal Mountain session will be held March 4–5, 2027, at Crystal Mountain Michigan Resort, with online learning available Jan. 26–March 3, 2027.
Participants in the ZAC Program receive comprehensive training, resources and applied activities designed to strengthen their understanding of the full scope of the zoning administrator role. Topics include reviewing applications and site plans, recordkeeping, reporting, inspections and violations, and customer service.
After completing the program and successfully passing an exam, participants receive a framed certificate of completion. The program is highly regarded among participants, with the overwhelming majority of 2026 attendees reporting they would recommend it to all zoning administrators.
According to a past participant, “It’s a great program that lets you practice what you learned. The educators are literally the best, and the atmosphere is laid back, making it easy to learn.” Another attendee shared: “This program exceeded all expectations I had. I liked how practical the program was. Every module I learned something.”
A recent survey of past ZAC participants found that participants ranked their knowledge and skills higher in 11 of 12 key zoning administration topics compared to those who had never attended. The largest gains were reported in understanding the legal role and responsibilities of zoning administrators, case law relevant to zoning, and reviewing and issuing land use permits by right — core functions of the position that help reduce legal risk for communities.
Read more about the history and impact of the ZAC Program in the recently published report, “Empowering Local Leadership and Governance: Impacts of MSU Extension’s Zoning Administrator Certificate Program.”
The 2027 ZAC Program begins January 26 with a live Zoom session, followed by two self-paced online learning modules that must be completed prior to the selected in-person portion of the program.
How to register
Registration for the 2027 ZAC Program is now open at a cost of $575 through Dec. 4. Visit events.anr.msu.edu/ZAC2027 to learn more.
For more information, visit canr.msu.edu/zac or email cplanner@msu.edu.
