What is the initial step in appealing a decision made by a code official in Michigan?

The initial step in appealing a decision made by a code official in Michigan is to submit a formal appeal to a local board or review panel. This process is designed to ensure that there is a structured avenue for individuals or entities to contest decisions made by officials, providing a method to review and potentially overturn decisions based on building codes or zoning laws.

Appealing directly to a local board or review panel allows for a more specialized consideration of the case, as these boards consist of members familiar with the relevant regulations and the specific context of the decision in question. They have the authority to evaluate evidence, hear testimony, and make informed decisions regarding the appeal.

While contacting the governor's office, filing a lawsuit in court, or consulting a private attorney might all be relevant at different stages or in different contexts, these options typically come after the local appeal process. For instance, taking legal action would usually involve exhausting administrative remedies, which includes submitting an appeal to the local authority first. Thus, starting the process with the local board or review panel is both mandatory and procedural, leading to a resolution at a more local level before potentially escalating the matter.