Environment (Coastal & Flood Protection)

This bill proposes changes to Michigan's natural resources laws to allow for the construction of traditional timber crib docks and boathouses in the Les Cheneaux Islands, provided they are built from natural wood and stone and approved by local zoning authorities. Under the new rules, permits would be granted only if these structures do not extend beyond the owner's shoreline or create navigational hazards, while also requiring the state to reject denials based on generalized environmental assumptions without specific evidence. The legislation includes a mandatory referendum in Clark Township, meaning the changes will only take effect if a majority of voters in that area approve them at an upcoming election.

HB 5583 would limit local zoning rules in metro areas by prohibiting minimum setbacks for homes or outbuildings that exceed 15 feet from the front property line or 5 feet from rear/side lines. It allows up to 25 feet of setback only near specific environmental features: wetlands, lakes/streams, or the Great Lakes shoreline as defined by state law. The bill applies to all local governments located within or adjacent to a federally designated metropolitan statistical area. This change aims to simplify zoning for residential development in urban and suburban regions while maintaining environmental protections.