Michigan Beach Grooming Legislation
SB 1052 has been passed by the Michigan Senate and the Michigan House and is currently on its way to Governor Rick Snyder for approval.
Lakefront vegetation has become more of an issue in recent years in Leelanau County and Grand Traverse County as water levels have receded exposing more shoreline and lake bottom allowing plants to grow. Previously a permit was required to remove vegetation. The new bill allows property owners on Lake Michigan (West Grand Traverse Bay & East Grand traverse Bay) to remove vegetation without a state permit.
The latest version of the legislation specifically says that the state or a local government may not regulate
• Leveling sand, removing vegetation, grooming soil, or removing debris, in an area of unconsolidated material predominantly composed of sand, rock, or pebbles, located between the ordinary high-water mark and the water's edge, or the
• Mowing vegetation between the ordinary high-water mark and the water's edge.
To read the full 27 page bill as passed by the house and senate on June 14, 2012 please click the following link: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2011-2012/billconcurred/Senate/pdf/2012-SCB-1052.pdf
