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.

Row of blooming white-flowered trees along a grassy path.
Red cardinal perched on snow-covered branch.
Sunlit orchard with blooming trees in springtime.
A peaceful lakeside beach with gentle waves and a clear blue sky.
Autumn trees with colorful leaves reflecting on a calm lake at sunset.
A serene winter landscape with a frozen river and snow-covered trees.
Bright colorful fireworks bursting in the night sky.
Calm river flowing beside autumn-colored trees under a soft evening sky.
Parade with decorated vehicles and people enjoying a sunny day.

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

Close-up of morel mushrooms growing in grass.

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 peaceful lakeside beach with gentle waves and a clear blue sky.

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

5-Year Joint Recreation Plan Between Banks Township and the Village of Ellsworth

Banks Township and the Village of Ellsworth are working on a new 5-year Recreation plan and want to hear from the citizens of both municipalities!

Your input will help guide:

  • Park improvements
  • Trails and waterfront access
  • Recreation programs
  • Future funding opportunities

This is a great chance to share what you would love to see in our community and help shape the plans for the future. Please take a few minutes and click the link below for the survey.

5-Year Joint Recreation Plan Survey

Click on the link below to see the current Banks Township Master Plan:

BANKS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION
ANTRIM COUNTY, MICHIGAN
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The Banks Township Planning Commission will hold two public hearings on Tuesday, June 9, 2026,
starting at 6:00 pm, at Banks Township Hall, 6520 Center Street, Ellsworth, Michigan 49729, to
consider amendments to the Banks Township Zoning Ordinance as follows:
• First public hearing: An amendment to Article VI, Section 6.01, pertaining to two
family dwellings within the (A) Agricultural Zoning District.
• Second public hearing: An amendment to Article VI Section 6.09, pertaining to
front, side, and rear yard setback requirements in the (A) Agricultural, (C/R)
Conservation/Recreation, (R-1) Low Density Residential, (M) Manufacturing, and
(VM) Village Manufacturing Zoning Districts.
Copies of the proposed amendments are available for inspection at the Township Hall or on the
Banks Township website: www.bankstownshipmi.gov.
The public is invited to attend and provide comments. Written comments will be received by the
Township Clerk at the address below during regular business hours until 5:00 pm on Monday,
June 10, 2026, and may also be submitted at the public hearing.
Banks Township will provide necessary reasonable aids and services at the meeting to individuals
with disabilities upon two weeks' advanced notice to the Township Clerk at the address below.
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
Flood Damage Survey
If your property has incurred damage due to the recent flooding, please report the damages to the State.
You can self-report using the following link.
If your property has incurred damage due to the recent flooding, please report the damages to the State.
You can self-report using the following link.

Click on the link below to view the final budget for 2026-2027!

2026-2027 Banks Twp Budget

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).

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

 

Sunlight illuminates a serene orchard full of blossoming trees.
White trillium flower with three petals and broad green leaves.
A doe and her fawn standing in a lush green meadow.
Rocky shoreline at sunset with colorful sky.
Close-up of morel mushrooms growing in grass.