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SB 323

Land use: zoning and growth management; provision subjecting zoning authority to part 8 of clean and renewable energy and energy waste reduction act; delete. Amends sec. 205 of 2006 PA 110 (MCL 125.3205). TIE BAR WITH: SB 322'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Thomas Albert and 11 co-sponsors

SB 323 removes state renewable energy zoning requirements from Michigan law, giving local municipalities unrestricted zoning authority over clean energy projects.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
#energy:electricity #landuse:zoningandgrowthmanagement #publicutilities:electricutilities #publicutilities:naturalgasutilities
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Bill Summary · SB 323

Legislative bill overview

SB 323 proposes to remove language from Michigan's zoning law (MCL 125.3205) that currently subjects local zoning decisions to Part 8 of the Clean and Renewable Energy and Energy Waste Reduction Act. Essentially, the bill would restore full local zoning authority by eliminating state-level constraints on how municipalities can regulate energy-related development through zoning.

Why is this important

Local zoning decisions significantly shape community development, property values, and land use patterns. The current requirement to comply with state renewable energy standards can override local preferences—for example, constraining local ability to restrict solar farms or wind turbines. This bill addresses the tension between state clean energy mandates and municipal control over land use.

Potential points of contention

  • Local vs. state authority: Removal could allow communities to block or severely limit renewable energy projects through restrictive zoning, potentially undermining Michigan's clean energy goals
  • Environmental impact: Municipalities might prioritize development over renewable energy infrastructure if given unchecked zoning discretion
  • Rural community concerns: Agricultural and rural areas may face different pressures—some welcome renewable projects for tax revenue; others oppose them for aesthetic or property value reasons
  • Tie-bar relationship: The connection to SB 322 suggests coordinated legislation that may have broader implications not visible in this bill alone

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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