In the State of Michigan, the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, or P.A. 110 of 2006 requires that zoning be based on a plan that promotes health, safety, and general welfare.

The Land Use Plan (aka Master Plan) is intended to guide the future growth and development of the Township. It is not an ordinance and does not have the force of law. The Plan takes a long-term view and provides a vision 20 years or more in the future. As such, the Plan represents a vision for the Township for the year 2030. Contained within this plan are goals, objectives, and policies, implementation measures, and a land use plan map. The land use plan map indicates appropriate areas for future land uses according to a vision for a desired future development pattern. 

The Cambridge Township Zoning Ordinance is the principal tool that will be used to implement this the Land Use Plan. This Ordinance creates zoning districts in which permitted land uses are listed, prohibited land uses are omitted, and lot requirements including density, building setbacks, maximum height, and maximum lot coverage percentages are provided. The Zoning Ordinance includes a zoning map indicating where zoning districts are located in the community.  The Zoning Plan that is included as part of the Master Plan provides information on the relationship of the Land Use Plan to the Zoning Ordinance. The Zoning Plan “translates” future land use plan designations to existing and proposed zoning district designations.