Small-Town Charm, Big Northern Michigan Spirit

Nestled in Northern Michigan, Banks Township combines picturesque scenery with a strong sense of community and a proud agricultural heritage, making it a welcoming place to live, visit, and explore.

Group of hikers gathering outdoors, preparing for a trek.

Our hardworking, friendly residents make Banks Township feel like home. From local favorites like Friskes and Royal Farms to community events, you’ll experience warmth, hospitality, and a strong sense of belonging.

Community Spirit

A serene sunset over a calm lake with a wooden dock.

With stunning landscapes and abundant natural resources, Banks Township is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, cycling, and winter sports—all set against the backdrop of Northern Michigan’s scenic beauty.

Explore the Outdoors!

A doe and her fawn standing in a lush green meadow.

Discover breathtaking views, fresh local produce, and a rich agricultural heritage. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or looking to put down roots, Banks Township offers the best of Northern Michigan living.

Experience Banks Township

Announcements

 

FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations for Antrim County, Michigan (All Jurisdictions)
The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has issued a
preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and where applicable, Flood Insurance Study (FIS)
report, reflecting proposed flood hazard determinations within Antrim County, Michigan (All
Jurisdictions). These flood hazard determinations may include the addition or modification of Base Flood
Elevations, base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area boundaries or zone designations, or the
regulatory floodway. Technical information or comments are solicited on the proposed flood hazard
determinations shown on the preliminary FIRM and/or FIS report for Antrim County, Michigan (All
Jurisdictions). These flood hazard determinations are the basis for the floodplain management measures
that your community is required to either adopt or show evidence of being already in effect in order to
qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. However, before
these determinations are effective for floodplain management purposes, you will be provided an
opportunity to appeal the proposed information. For information on the statutory 90-day period provided
for appeals, as well as a complete listing of the communities affected and the locations where copies of
the FIRM are available for review, please visit FEMA’s website at
https://www.floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/BFE_Status/bfe_main.asp or call the FEMA Mapping and
Insurance eXchange (FMIX) toll free at 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627).


BANKS TOWNSHIP

ANTRIM COUNTY, MICHIGAN

NOTICE OF SPECIAL TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING

REGARDING ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT

POSSIBLE REPEAL OF ZONING ORDINANCE

 

TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF BANKS TOWNSHIP, ANTRIM COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS:

 

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Banks Township Board will hold a special meeting and public hearing on March 5, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., at the Banks Township Hall, 6520 Center Street, Ellsworth, Michigan that will include the following:

 

1. A public hearing to consider a Zoning Ordinance text amendment to repeal the Township Zoning Ordinance.

2. Possible Township Board action (including possible adoption) on a Zoning Ordinance text amendment to repeal the Township Zoning Ordinance.

3. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Township Board.

Written comments will be received concerning the above matters by the Township Clerk at the Township Hall during regular business hours on regular business days until the day of the public hearing and may also be submitted to the Township Board at the public hearing. All interested persons are invited to be present at the Township Board special meeting and public hearing.

 

Banks Township will provide necessary reasonable aids and services at the meeting to individuals with disabilities upon seven days’ advanced notice to the Village Clerk at the address below.

 

Julie Chellis, Clerk

Banks Township

PO Box 68

Ellsworth, Michigan 49729

231-588-6126


 

BANKS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION

ANTRIM COUNTY, MICHIGAN

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

 

The Banks Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., at Banks Township Hall, 6520 Center Street, Ellsworth, Michigan 49729, to consider a proposed zoning ordinance text amendment:

1. Section 6.09 (Dimensional Standards) of the Banks Township Zoning Ordinance regarding front yard setback requirements in the A and CR Zoning Districts.

2. The purpose of the public hearing is to receive public comment on the proposed Banks Township Master Plan.

The public is invited to attend and provide comment. Written comments may be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, to:

 

Julie Chellis, Township Clerk

Banks Township

P.O. Box 68

Ellsworth, MI 49729

clerk@bankstownshipmi.gov

 

Written comments received will be forwarded to the Planning Commission for consideration at the public hearing.

Banks Township Planning Commission


Check out the latest issues of the Antrim County Bulletin and Diving In!

January Diving In - Vol 1, Iss 3

December Antrim County Bulletin

 


On November 18, 2025, at the regular meeting, the Banks Township Planning Commission voted to forward the draft of the 2025 Master Plan to the Township Board of Trustees. On November 24, 2025, the Township Board authorized the distribution for the required 63-day public review period under the Michigan Planning Enabling Act (Act 33 of 2008). The draft is posted below. Residents can obtain a physical copy by emailing their request to the Township Clerk at clerk@bankstownship.net.

Residents may submit their written comments in two ways:

Mailed comments: Banks Township Hall - PO Box 68, Ellsworth MI 49729
Emailed comments: rshell@bria2.com

 


Attached is the ordinance to repeal zoning and dissolve the Planning Commission.  If anyone wants to inspect it or get copies of it, they are available at the Townhall, in the clerk's office. Office hours are posted on the Officials page. 

Repeal of PC Ord 10-22-2025

Repeal of Zoning 10-21-2025


Attached below is a check list from our attorneys on the steps to repeal zoning.  If you have any questions, please contact Supervisor Busman at 231-676-1075.

Checklist for Repeal 10-1-2025


The attached memo from our township attorney regarding zoning.

Memo Zoning 2025


24-Hour Recycling Available in Banks Township

On Lake St behind Dollar General
9627 Lake St, Ellsworth, MI 49729
(231) 943-8088

View more information on how and what to recycle on Antrim County’s website

 

Snow-covered farm with red barn and fence under clear blue sky.
Cardinal Winter
Two deer nuzzling in a snowy forest.
Banks Township Park Winter
A serene winter landscape with a frozen river and snow-covered trees.