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HB 5103

Natural resources: shorelands; temporary erosion control structures; authorize without permit during high water levels. Amends secs. 32312, 32312a & 32510 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.32312 et seq.) & adds sec. 32510a.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Greg VanWoerkom

Michigan bill exempts temporary shoreline erosion control structures from permit requirements during high water events to streamline property protection.

bill electronically reproduced 10/22/2025
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Bill Summary · HB 5103

Legislative bill overview

HB 5103 amends Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to allow property owners to install temporary erosion control structures along shorelines without permits during periods of high water levels. The bill modifies existing permit requirements under sections governing shorelands to create an exemption for these temporary protective measures.

Why is this important

Shoreline erosion is a significant concern for Michigan waterfront property owners, particularly during spring snowmelt and extreme weather events. This bill could reduce regulatory barriers for homeowners and businesses seeking to protect property during acute erosion events, though it raises questions about environmental oversight during critical periods when waterways are most vulnerable.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental safeguards: Temporary structures installed during high water may lack standard environmental review, potentially affecting fish habitat, water quality, or downstream properties without permit scrutiny
  • Definition and enforcement challenges: "Temporary" and "high water levels" lack clear operational definitions in the bill summary, creating potential ambiguity about scope and duration of the exemption
  • Liability and accountability: Removing permit requirements may shift liability and responsibility from regulatory agencies to individual property owners for structures that affect shared waterways and neighboring properties

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

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