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Building

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1. Do I need a permit to reroof my home or business?

Yes, a building permit is required for a new roof, or repairs:

• Residential: A simple tear off/re-roof application cost $75.00 and requires one final inspection. A licensed contractor or the homeowner (when it is their primary residence) may pull the permit.
  • If your project includes any structural changes, fees are calculated by the Building Official. Please include scope of work, any plans/drawings, and build details.
• Commercial: A building permit application will be reviewed and invoiced by the Building Official. Please include scope of work, any plans/drawings, and build details. A licensed contractor must pull the permit.

2. Do I need a permit for my accessory building?

The building codes do require a permit for any buildings (ie. shed, gazebo, etc.) that exceed 200 square feet for residential buildings and 120 square feet for commercial buildings. This includes sheds and buildings that are pre built or manufactured.

3. Do I need a permit to replace windows, doors, or siding?

Yes. We require a permit to replace windows, doors, and siding. Please note that bedroom windows must either meet the minimum required egress size or be replaced with a window that does not reduce the current window opening size. 

• Residential: A simple, non-structural change for re-siding, re-roofing (shingle replacement only), or same-size window replacement (no change in window opening size), the fee is $65.00 plus a non-refundable $15.00 permit application fee. This permit process also requires one final inspection. A licensed contractor or the homeowner (when it is their primary residence) may pull the permit.
  • If your project includes any structural changes, the fees are calculated by the Building Official. Please include a scope of work, any plans/drawings, and build details within the permit application.
• Commercial: A building permit application will be reviewed and invoiced by the Building Official. Please include a scope of work, any plans/drawings, and build details. A licensed contractor must pull the permit.

4. Do I need a permit for a deck that is not attached to my home?

Yes. Code requires a permit for any deck that serves an exit door regardless of whether it is attached to the building or free standing. You do not need a permit if you are replacing deck boards. You do need a permit if you are replacing anything structural (ie. railings, joists, etc.) If your deck/project is not attached to the home, is less than 200 sq. ft. and more than 10 ft. away from the home, a permit is not required.

5. Do I need a permit for interior remodeling?

In most cases yes. There are a number of things that require inspection even during minor remodeling project. It is best to call our office and describe the project to determine if a permit is required, 517-668-0278.

6. How do I get my power turned back on after it has been off for a period of time?

The utility companies require an inspection before power can be restored and an electrical permit is required for that inspection.

7. Do I need to be home during an inspection?

In any case where the house is occupied or personal items are present, we will require someone over the age of 18 to be there. Only the applicant can schedule inspections by calling 517-277-0700.

8. What are building permit fees based on?

New structures are based on the square footage of the building type following the International Code Council's valuation table. Remodeling and alterations are based on the contract amount or value of the of the project. 

9. Can I pull homeowner or business owner permits?

Residential

• Homeowners (primary residence) may pull building and trades permits. Licensed contractors may also pull these permits.
• Homeowners (non-primary residence, landlords, second home, etc.) are not permitted to pull permits. A licensed contractor is required to pull these permits.

Commercial

• Business owners are not permitted to pull building or trades permits, the applicant must be a licensed contractor.

10. Do I need a permit for a pool?

Yes. A homeowner or licensed contractor may pull a permit for a pool. Both in-ground and above ground pools require a building permit.

11. How long will it take to get my permit?

If everything is completed accurately and all supplemental documentation has been submitted, issuing permits typically follow the guidelines below. Please include your email address on applications as invoices, permits, and plans are delivered electronically.

• Trades Permits: 24-36 Hours (permits and invoices are delivered electronically, please include your email address)
• Building Permits: 7-10 Business Days

12. Can you help me with hiring a good contractor?

Although we do not give out Contractor recommendations, we do believe it is very important to check:

• Does the contractor have a valid license?
• Can they provide recent references?
• Does this Contractor have expired permits on file with the City of Grand Ledge?
• Does the Contractor provide a warranty?
• Have all inspections been performed on the project?

13. What types of projects require a permit (ie. Building and all Trades)?

This list is not all-inclusive. If you have further questions, please call us at 517-668-0278.

• A permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, or demolish any building, or part thereof.
• All new construction work requires a building permit.
• All existing construction work, if altering the original building, requires a building permit.
• The following repairs/replacement projects ALWAYS require a permit:
  • Water heater change out
  • A/C or Furnace replacement
  • Generator Installation
  • Re-Roofing home
  • Tub/shower replacement
  • Electrical service change out/repair
  • Window/door replacement if opening sizes are altered
  • All repairs due to a fire

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GLAlerts

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1. How do I sign up for GLAlerts?

There are two options to sign up for GLAlerts:

1. With your mobile phone, text "GLAlerts" to 67283. You will receive a special link Smart 911 and the City of Grand Ledge's GLAlert page to create an account and subscribe to the alerts.
2. Click on this link to be taken directly to Smart 911 and the City of Grand Ledge's GLAlert page to create an account and subscribe to the alerts.

2. What types of alerts will I receive?

When you subscribe to GLAlerts you will receive alerts related to:

• Emergencies - Gas leak, train derailment, structure fire, etc

• Road Closures - Parades, water main break, vehicle accident, etc.

• City Updates - Hydrant flushing, power outage, etc.

3. How often will I receive alerts?

The City uses discretion to send alerts only when necessary.

4. Is there a charge to subscribe to GLAlerts?

There is no charge to subscribe but message and data rates may apply. Text messages are sent on an as-needed basis. This service is provided per the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Text STOP to 67283 to cancel or HELP for tech support.

5. Can I receive alerts other than by text message?

Yes, GLAlerts can be received via text, email, and/or telephone call. Subscribers can select any combination of alerts they would like to receive.

6. How can I get help if I'm having trouble signing up for or receiving GLAlerts?

Questions that cannot be answered within this FAQ can be addressed by contacting the City of Grand Ledge:

• Email: Email City Hall
• Call: 517-627-2149
• In-Person: City Hall, 310 Greenwood Street, Grand Ledge, MI 48837, open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm

7. How do I opt-out of receiving GLAlerts?

• To opt-out of text messages
  • Text "STOP" to 67283
  • Please use the STOP with caution as this will also stop the delivery of Broadcast Alert messages
• To opt-out of the text, email, and/or telephone messages
  • Log into your Smart 911 account, click on Opt-In Lists and uncheck the delivery options you no longer wish to receive.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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Iron Removal Plant Construction

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1. Are water rates going to increase?

No, your fixed water rate will not increase. Please note water and sewer rates are different from one another and are calculated at different rates on your bill. When the IRP initially began to fail, City Council knew a costly solution would be required to continue to provide residents with safe drinking water. In 2017, fixed water rates began to increase as a proactive measure to cover the debt burden of the water treatment system improvements. Revenue from utility bills must be sufficient to cover costs of State mandated maintenance, operations and improvements. Because City Council recognized the anticipated costs of this project and adjusted rates accordingly at the time, fixed water rates will not be raised at this time.

2. Why didn't the City just connect to Lansing BWL?

When reviewing options for water supply and treatment in Grand Ledge, City Council thoroughly compared the implications and costs of the following options:

1. No Action
2. Optimization of Existing Facilities
3. Regional Option (Connecting to BWL)
4. Construction of New IRP

 The cost to connect to BWL's infrastructure and water supply would have been 2-3x the cost of building a new IRP. To review the studies on each option click here.

3. Will my water quality improve?

Water in Grand Ledge provided to residents and businesses meets every standard set forth by the State of Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). These can all be reviewed in our Annual Water Quality Report. Many customers will experience improved water quality as iron and manganese (naturally occurring minerals that cause discoloration) will be removed from the water supply in an effective and efficient manner. Unfortunately, old plumbing and aging infrastructure can affect water as it is delivered to your tap. Discoloration, many times, is cause by the plumbing inside the home or business. Of the 47 miles of water mains that make up the City's water system, almost 11 miles of that total have been constructed or replaced since 2000. These continued improvements will always improve the look and smell of water.

That being said, the new IRP does not soften water. The level of hardness in tap water is determined by the amount of calcium and magnesium in the water, both of which are common minerals found in the City’s groundwater supply. Most City water customers receive water with moderate hardness. The City of Grand Ledge tests water 16 times each month to ensure the water is safe to drink.

4. Did City Council make this decision without public input?

No. City Council did not take this decision lightly. A public forum for input was held on November 9, 2020, to gather feedback on three options (new IRP, new water softening system, or connection to BWL). The forum was announced publicly as a public notice, on our website, and on Facebook. Public Hearings were held many times throughout the process of determining a plan, gathering research, the bidding process, etc. Residents are always welcome to sign up for public hearing notifications.

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Oakwood Cemetery

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1. How do I purchase property in Oakwood Cemetery?

Plots can be purchased at City Hall located at 310 Greenwood Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837. City Hall is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Cash or check are accepted as well as credit cards with an additional fee.

2. What months are burials permitted?

Burials are permitted year-round at Oakwood Cemetery.

Funerals arriving after 3:30 PM on weekdays, all funerals on Saturdays, and funerals on the following holidays will be assessed an additional charge:

• President's Day
• Veteran's Day
• Good Friday
• The Friday after Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Eve
• New Year's Eve

No burials are allowed on Sundays or the following holidays:

• Easter
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day
• New Year's Day

3. Are "Green Burials" permitted?

At this time, green burials are not permitted at Oakwood Cemetery.

4. Are urns allowed at the cemetery?

• Urns are prohibited unless approved by the City as to material and location.
• Urns of glass, clay, or ceramic, and any plastic containers of any type are prohibited. The City will remove and hold such containers for one year and will dispose of such containers not claimed within one year after removal.

5. Why are the urns turned over each fall?

Each fall, the City’s past, and current practice is to utilize the Department of Public Services (DPS) staff to turn over all urns at Oakwood Cemetery. This is done as a courtesy to help ensure the privately purchased concrete and granite urns do not crack during the freeze and thaw of winter and spring.

Each spring, family members or friends who want to utilize the urns can turn them over as they wish. If assistance is needed to help turn over an urn, please reach out to City Hall to make that request. DPS crews will honor these formal requests within one business day unless unplanned, extenuating circumstances arise. 

Please note, DPS does not turn all of the urns over each spring as any that remain empty collect water and create a breeding ground for mosquitos.

To request assistance with having an urn turned over during the months of May through September, please call 517-627-2149 or stop by City Hall, 310 Greenwood Street, during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm.

6. Are natural and/or homemade markers permitted?

No. All markers and monuments shall be made of granite. Homemade markers and markers made of other materials such as marble, wood, plastic, cement, or steel are prohibited.

7. How do I get a marker placed on a plot?

All markers and monuments must have foundations and shall not be delivered until a foundation is installed and payment is made in full. Orders for foundations shall be placed a minimum of two (2) weeks in advance of delivery. Foundations will not be poured between October 1 and April 30. Contact City Hall at 517-627-2149 to order a foundation. 

8. Can I plant flowers or trees near a marker?

In Oakwood Cemetery, flowers may be planted within 18-inches of a marker or monument, and under no circumstances shall plantings be allowed outside the boundaries of the owner's plot(s), no sod shall be removed which is not next to a marker or monument and then not more than 18-inches. Plantings may be set next to markers or monuments but must be kept free from grass and weeds. The planting or removal of trees and shrubbery is prohibited unless approved by the Superintendent or Sexton as to species, variety, location, and time of planting.

9. Can I decorate a marker?

Artificial flowers, wreaths, and grave blankets are allowed only from November 1 through March 31. The Sexton will remove all artificial flowers, wreaths, and grave blankets on April 1. Artificial flowers shall not be placed in the ground. Artificial flowers and wreaths may be placed in the mausoleum at any time; however, the Sexton will remove them each year prior to Memorial Day.

10. How can I find the burial location for a specific person?

Burial locations can be found online at the websites listed below. In addition, a detailed map of the cemetery can be found here.

To locate burial locations in Oakwood Cemetery:

• Cemetery Management Database 
  • Burial locations only in Oakwood Cemetery
• Find A Grave 
  • Search "Oakwood Cemetery" or search millions of grave records. Please note, Find A Grave is not a City of Grand Ledge website. The City of Grand Ledge is not affiliated with this site, nor do we provide any updates or edits.

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Police Department

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1. How do I file a criminal complaint?

Complaints can be made by telephone 24 hours a day by calling 517-627-2115. If you have an emergency, dial 911. The police will be dispatched to your location. You may also file a complaint in person at the Police Department located at 310 Greenwood Street in the Greenwood Municipal Building.

Depending on the nature of the complaint, an officer may have to be called in off of the road to help you. During non-business hours, when you call the Police Department your call will be transferred to Eaton County Central Dispatch, and they will contact an officer to assist you.

2. Can I park my vehicle on the street overnight?

April 1 - November 30

Coming into the City there are signs posted on all major roads informing residents and visitors that no parking is allowed on City streets or in City parking lots between 3 am and 5 am. This is to assist the various municipal departments in snowplowing, street sweeping, and other maintenance chores. Permission to park between 3 am and 5 am is granted by the Police Department on a case-by-case basis. You can find other parking violations in the City’s Code of Ordinances Chapter 205, Article III, Section 18.

December 1 - March 31

The odd-even, overnight, on-street parking ordinance (Section 42- 1- 42-4, Article I) takes effect seasonally, December 1 - March 31, and during any declared snow emergencies. It is common for weather conditions between December 1 and March 31 to include snowfalls that require the plowing of city streets. Often times plowing is needed all the way to curb to alleviate ice build-up, flooding, and other unsafe conditions. Plowing to the curbs is not possible when cars are parked on the street along the curb. The city recognizes on-street parking is important in some circumstances. In balancing these competing needs, the city allows for parking on only one side of the street during overnight hours December through March, and during any declared snow emergencies with the allowed parking alternating on a daily basis to enable snowplowing of both sides of the street. 

Park on the side of the street that corresponds with the day's date, starting at 7 PM the day before (Click here for a full parking calendar):

• On ODD days, park on the side of the road with ODD addresses (starting as early as 7 PM the day before).
• On EVEN days, park on the side of the road with EVEN addresses (starting as early as 7 PM the day before).
• On cul-de-sacs overnight, on-street parking is permitted only on even-numbered calendar days (starting as early as 7:00 PM the day before).
• Between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM, vehicles may be parked on either side of the street.

NO PARKING and other traffic signs remain in effect and apply at all times.

To learn more, please visit https://library.municode.com/mi/grand_ledge/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICOOR_CH42TRVE_ARTIIIPAVI_S42-58USPALO

3. Where do I park if I live downtown?

Eligible residents downtown can apply for a parking permit pass for City Lots. Learn more about downtown permit parking here.

4. Where can I pay my parking ticket?

You may pay for a parking ticket in person at the Police Department or mail a check made payable to the City of Grand Ledge for the appropriate fee as listed on the back of the ticket. Please mail the fine to:
Grand Ledge Police Department
310 Greenwood Street
Grand Ledge, MI 48837

Police Department office hours are 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

5. What are the Noise Ordinances in Grand Ledge?

The Noise Ordinances can be found in Chapter 148, Article VI, Section 14 of the City Code of Ordinances. The first three sections of this ordinance deal with specific acts that are prohibited. The following is a summary of those sections. If you believe that a section of this ordinance is being violated, contact the Police Department at 517-627-2115.

• Section B No person shall willfully act in an obscene, disorderly, or riotous manner in a public place so that his conduct is observed by another person and disturbs the peace, good order, health, or safety of the other person.
• Section C No person shall create, assist in creating, permit, continue, or permit the continuance of any unreasonably loud, disturbing, unusual, or unnecessary noise which either annoys, disturbs, injures, or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of others within the City of Grand Ledge. Each of the following acts is hereby declared unlawful and prohibited, but this enumeration shall not be deemed to be exclusive, namely:
• Section C has 13 subsections that describe examples of such behavior but do not limit illegal actions to only those described. They include any of the following that makes noise as described in the previous bullets:
  • The playing of any radio or musical instrument
  • The keeping of any animal or bird
  • Exhaust from a machine
  • Loading operations of a vehicle
  • Yelling, shouting, or whistling by curfew violators
  • Musical instruments for the purpose of any show
  • Mechanical loudspeakers from a motor vehicle
  • Blowing of a steam whistle
  • Construction noise between 8 pm and 6 am.
  • Business noise in a residential area between 10 pm and 6 am.
  • Firearms or other combustible noisemakers
  • Practicing of musical groups

6. How can I start a Neighborhood Watch?

Please call the Police Department at 627-2115. An officer will personally help get you started. Neighborhood Watch Programs are a nationally recognized and effective way to reduce crime in your neighborhood.

7. What is a Personal Protection Order and how do I get one?

Personal Protection Order Definition

A personal protection order (PPO) is a court order that can be obtained from a judge. It is available to you if you have suffered or fear abuse related to family violence, dating violence, or stalking. A PPO can provide you with a:

• Court order for the abuser to stop the abuse
• Court order for the abuser to be removed from the home for a specified number of days
• Court order forbidding contact between the abuser and the victim

Obtain a PPO

In order to obtain a PPO, you must go to the Eaton County Circuit Court located on the 2nd floor of the:
Eaton County Court House
1045 Independence Boulevard
Charlotte, MI 48813

The Eaton County Circuit Court can be reached by calling 517-485-6444, ext. 255.

If you have been a victim of abuse and do not know what steps to take, start by getting yourself to a place of safety and calling the police. We can help with information and other assistance.

More Information

• Learn more about Domestic Violence.
• Learn more about Personal Protection Orders (including how to serve a PPO and when it takes effect).

8. If I go on vacation, will the Police check on my house and property?

Yes, the Grand Ledge Police Department is proud to provide this service to its residents. Please call the Police Department during business hours of 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, at 517-627-2115. We can best serve you if you provide the following information:

• Your name, address, and a telephone number where we may contact you
• The time you will be away from your home
• Who should be at your home when you are gone
• What cars may be there
• Will there be lights left on and is the house alarmed
• Will someone be watching your house; if yes, do they have a key and how do we contact them

You can also email the Police Department with "Vacation Check" in the subject line. Please include all of the listed information. Please let us know when you have returned home.

9. How can I get a copy of an Accident Report or Criminal Complaint?

You can get a copy of an accident report online. You will need the date of the accident and the report number. There is a charge for this feature. You can also get a copy from our office.

For a criminal complaint, you must appear in person at the Police Department and fill out a Freedom of Information Act Request if you are not the victim. There will be a charge for fulfilling the request which will vary depending on what you are requesting and how much administrative work is involved (the minimum charge is $5). Some information may be redacted from reports, including but not limited to information on juveniles, addresses, phone numbers, and dates of birth.

10. My house has been broken into. What do I do?

Do not enter the house. Call 911 from a neighbor’s house or use a cell phone and wait for an officer to arrive. 

All burglary complaints are assigned to an officer. If possible, have a complete list of items missing, including serial numbers and receipts showing the cost of goods. Provide the officer with the names of possible suspects. If there is broken glass or other items that have potentially been handled by the perpetrator, do not touch or disturb. Notify the officer of this possible evidence.

11. Where and when can I have my fingerprints taken?

Fingerprinting is done during regular business hours, 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. There is a $20 administrative fee. Bring a valid picture ID. Child Ident-a-kits are provided for free.

12. Can I have the Police Department check someone else’s name to see if they have a record or a warrant?

Absolutely not. Michigan Law strictly prohibits any police department from sharing information obtained from the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) or the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) computer system with anyone other than law enforcement personnel. The department could be fined or lose its access to violations of these regulations.

You can perform a record search through the Michigan State Police using iCHAT (Internet Criminal History Access Tool). There is a fee involved.

13. Can someone answer a question about the status of my case?

To inquire about your case, call our office at 517-627-2115 or email the officer who first took the report.

14. Can the police open my car if I have locked my keys inside?

Yes, but be prepared to prove you have legal possession of the vehicle. Due to the potential for damage to some vehicles, you must sign a waiver of liability relinquishing the officer and/or the Police Department of any responsibility.

If a child is locked inside your vehicle, the Police Department may send a rescue unit to remove the child from the vehicle. Breaking a window may become necessary.

15. There is an abandoned vehicle in my parking lot or on my property. Can the police tow it away for me?

The Police Department can only have vehicles towed that are on public property. Call a wrecker service in your area to have the vehicle towed away. The wrecker service will notify the owner once they have determined who that may be.

16. How do I apply for a position with the Grand Ledge Police Department?

Please refer to our Employment Information page.

17. How can I find out if someone is in jail? Can someone in jail have visitors and during what hours?

The Grand Ledge Police Department does not have a jail. To obtain this information, you must contact the Eaton County Jail directly at 517-372-8217.

18. How do I apply for a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) permit?

Concealed Pistol License (CPL) packets are available at the Grand Ledge Police Department free of charge. The packets must be turned to the County Clerk in the county in which you reside. For more information, see the Michigan State Police Concealed Pistol Licensing page.

19. How do I obtain a purchase permit to buy a handgun?

There is no cost, but the form does need to be notarized which we will do for a $10 fee. You will need a valid picture ID. There is a written test you will need to take and an application that you will need to fill out. It usually takes about 15 minutes to complete the paperwork.

A purchase permit is valid for 10 days from the date of issue and must be turned in even if it is not used. If you have been convicted of a felony or have shown a propensity for violence or assaultive behavior, your permit application may be denied.

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Snow Removal

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1. At what point will the city take action and start to plow?

Generally, when conditions become slippery or an accumulation occurs the Department of Public Service (DPS) will start salting and clearing the roads of snow.

2. How does the city prioritize streets for plowing?

DPS follows these established priorities to systematically remove snow and ice from City roads:

1. State trunk line (M-43 & M-100) and major street routes (ie. Bridge, Jenne, Jefferson)
2. Primary school routes.
3. All other secondary and neighborhood streets.

3. Does the city spread salt on the streets and sidewalks?

DPS salts the designated Safe Routes to School, major street routes, state highways, correlating intersections, and stop signs and hills. City residents and property owners are required to clear sidewalks in front of their homes in accordance with the City's snow ordinance. All corporate citizens are responsible for clearing the sidewalks in front of their business. Schools take care of the sidewalks on their property. The City of Grand Ledge clears the snow from the City-owned sidewalks, the non-motorized Widewalk along M-100 and M-43, the Riverwalk Trail, and provides assistance downtown.

4. What is the city ordinance regarding snow removal?

Grand Ledge Ordinance #554 requires removal of snow/ice within 24-hours when it reaches three (3) inches of accumulation. Regardless of the amount of accumulation the City strongly encourages property owners to keep their sidewalks clear of snow and ice at all times. 

5. How can I help as a community member?

• Reduce your speed while driving when roads are slick with ice and snow
• DO NOT follow too closely behind snow removal equipment
• Please remind children NOT to play in or near snow piles by the roadway
• Avoid parking on streets during heavy snowfall if possible and familiarize yourself with our Odd/Even Overnight Parking Ordinance
• DO NOT shovel or plow snow onto the street 
• Notify City Hall of poor street conditions: 517-627-2149

6. How can I adopt my fire hydrant?

It is not required, but as a courtesy, we ask residents to shovel out any fire hydrants that may be located near your home. Please shovel out 3 feet surrounding the hydrant.

7. How can I avoid trucks plowing in my driveway?

Clear an area to the right of your driveway and shovel snow in the direction of traffic to avoid shoveling twice after City snow plows come through.

8. What if a snowplow hits my mailbox?

If you believe that a City of Grand Ledge plow damaged your mailbox during snow removal, please contact the Department of Public Services at 517-627-2144.

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Utilities - Bottled Water, Filters & Water Softeners

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1. Should I buy bottled water?

Some people believe that bottled water is safer and more pure than tap water. Water purity is determined by the amount of elements found in the water and by the level of treatment performed. Both bottled and tap water are considered safe when drinking water standards are met. When the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets a new standard for tap water, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is required to establish the same new standard for bottled water.

2. How much money can I save by drinking tap water?

Some brands of bottled water use tap water from other areas and are a much more expensive option than your own tap water. Water that is bottled and sold can cost up to a thousand times more per gallon than tap water. On average, a City water customer receives more than 583 glasses of tap water for approximately $1.

3. Do I need to purchase a filtered water treatment device to make my tap water safe?

Drinking water provided by the City meets all federal and state quality standards. Water filters may change the taste of tap water, but they are not necessary to ensure water safety.

4. Do I need a water softener?

While the drinking water provided by the City meets all federal and state quality standards, it is hard water. For customers who are looking to utilize "softer" water, a home water softener can be a viable option. Water softeners do require regular maintenance and have added installation costs and regular fees associated with their use. It is recommended that property owners check with a local water conditioning expert or the Water Quality Association to find the best product for their needs.

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Utilities - Looks, Smells & Taste

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1. Why does my tap water look cloudy?

Occasionally, tiny air bubbles in tap water cause a cloudy appearance. Air dissolves into water when pressurized which occurs in the groundwater basin and in the water pipes that deliver water to your tap.

2. Is it okay to drink the water when it looks cloudy?

The bubbles are harmless and pose no health risk. The air bubbles will dissipate if you let the water sit in a glass for a few minutes.

3. Why are there particles in my water?

The City’s drinking water comes from a vast underground aquifer. The wells that pump the water from the aquifer into the delivery system are designed to filter out naturally occurring sediments. These particles typically settle in large water pipes and tanks, but sometimes make it through the faucet.

4. Why does the tap water smell funny sometimes?

When your water tastes or smells funny, the problem may be in the water or it may not. Odors might actually be coming from your sink drain where bacteria grow on hair, soap, food, and other things that get trapped. Gases in the drain that smell get stirred up when water pours into the pipe. Odor can also come from bacteria growing in devices such as water heaters.

5. What if my water appears discolored?

It’s possible that from time to time your water may be safe to drink, but is discolored for some reason. The primary cause of water discoloration is due to naturally occurring minerals (primarily iron and manganese) flowing with the water. These minerals, which are heavier than water, settle in water pipelines when water usage is low - especially during winter months. When the water flow and pressure through the water pipes increases again (due to irrigation, construction, etc.) the minerals are stirred up and flow out of your faucets when you turn on the tap.

The Department of Public Services "flushes" the water system twice a year; this also allows the City to remove any sediment from the water lines which helps improve quality and clarity. As a result, water main flushing can cause temporary changes in water pressure or discoloration.

Find helpful information on Water Discoloration from American Waterworks Association.

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Utilities - Meters & Bills

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1. I think there is something wrong with my water meter. What should I do?

It is important for water customers to understand how their water meter works. The following graphics indicate a few features of typical water meters, both current and new, that are utilized in the City. If you feel your meter is not operating as it should, please contact the Utilities Billing Department at 517-627-2149. Inspections can be scheduled for a $50 charge.

2. What is the difference between a fixed rate and a variable rate?

Fixed rates are designed to recover unchanging costs associated with the operation and maintenance water and wastewater utilities. Variable rate calculations are based on the amount of water and wastewater used.

3. How can I learn more about reading my water/sewer bill?

The charts and infographics on our Utility Education page will help you decipher and understand how your bill is calculated.

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Utilities - Minerals & Deposits

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1. Why does my tap water leave spots on my glasses and sometimes limit the flow of water from my showerhead and faucets?

Several types of minerals can be found in tap water. Minerals containing calcium and magnesium are common in local groundwater supplies and are responsible for the white spots observed when tap water is allowed to dry on household surfaces. While these spots may be unwelcome, these naturally occurring minerals in your tap water provide a protective internal coating deemed optimum for controlling corrosion of your home’s water pipes and plumbing fixtures. The most common mineral deposits are lime, rust, and calcium.

Mineral deposits that are allowed to accumulate over time on household surfaces can become more problematic to remove. Routine household maintenance such as wiping water droplets from surfaces before evaporation occurs can help prevent mineral deposits.

2. Is my tap water hard, and is it safe to drink?

The level of hardness in tap water is determined by the amount of calcium and magnesium in the water, both of which are common minerals found in the City’s groundwater supply. Most City water customers receive water with moderate hardness. The City of Grand Ledge tests water 16 times each month to ensure the water is safe to drink.

While hard water can require additional cleaning steps, these naturally occurring minerals in your tap water provide protective internal coating deemed optimum for controlling corrosion of your home’s water pipes and plumbing fixtures.

3. What about iron in my drinking water?

Making up at least 5% of the earth’s crust, iron is one of the earth’s most plentiful resources. Rainwater as it infiltrates the soil and underlying geologic formations dissolves iron, causing it to seep into aquifers that serve as sources of groundwater for wells. Although present in drinking water, iron is seldom found at concentrations greater than 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L) or 10 parts per million. However, as little as 0.3 mg/L can cause water to turn a reddish brown color. Iron is not hazardous to health, but it is considered a secondary or aesthetic contaminant. Essential for good health, iron helps transport oxygen in the blood.

4. I've heard there is lead in the City's water. Is that true?

Lead has not been detected in the City’s source water. While lead has not been detected in the City’s source water, there have been instances where lead was detected through testing individual customer taps. The City has been testing an average of 20 sites at the highest risk for lead, as determined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), every one to three years since 1992. In all instances, these tests have been found in compliance with water quality standards, including lead levels that have not reached above the Federal Action Level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). 

Lead testing. For the latest water sampling results, please visit www.cityofgrandledge.com and select the “Water Quality Report” box on the homepage.

5. Where does the City test our water?

The City’s water system pulls ground water from four different wells that are 250 feet below ground. The water is tested before it travels into the public water towers and water main. For sampling data and additional information on the City’s water quality, view the most recent Water Quality Report or stop by City Hall, open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, for a printed copy.

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Utilities - Water Costs

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1. Does the City of Grand Ledge make money from paid water bills?

As a public water provider, the City of Grand Ledge can only charge customers for the costs associated with providing water service, which means it cannot earn a profit. The City provides water and wastewater collection for more than 3,756 customers across approximately 4 square miles.

2. Why does the City charge so much for water?

The City of Grand Ledge is dedicated to setting water and wastewater rates that treat customers fairly and reflect the true cost of service while protecting the City’s financial stability. Recent water and wastewater rate increases reflect the necessary adjustments needed to ensure the City provides the operation and maintenance required for the water and wastewater systems. Adequate funding levels are critical to the delivery of a safe and reliable supply of water.

3. Don't my property taxes pay for water costs?

For every $1 paid toward property taxes, the City of Grand Ledge receives approximately 24 cents if the taxpayer lives in the City or approximately 17 cents if the taxpayer owns property in the City. The balance of taxes paid are appropriated to other entities. The tax allocation could not support a user based utility such as the City’s water and wastewater that has operational costs and user fees dependent on use. The vast majority of municipalities charge customers fixed and variable rate water/wastewater fees to cover costs associated with adequately operating water and wastewater utilities.

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Zoning / Planning

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1. Do I need a fence permit?

Yes. Fence/hedge permits are required in the City of Grand Ledge, here a few general guidelines. If you have further questions please call the Zoning Department at 517-622-7928.

• Basic Fence/Hedge Ordinance Regulations
• No hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet within a front yard or 6 feet within a side or rear yard. Fences may not exceed a height of 6 feet within a side or rear yard.
• When located within a front yard, fences may not exceed a height of 3 feet and must be of an ornamental nature, including picket, split rail or wrought-iron-style fencing, with at least 50% open spaces, uniformly distributed along the surface of the fence.
• Wire and chain link fencing is prohibited in front yards.
• Corner Lots are considered to have two (2) front yards.
• All yards that abut a street right-of-way are considered front yards, regardless of which direction the house faces.
• No fence shall be located in such a manner as to create a dead space between an existing fence or building and a proposed fence.