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SB 615

Recreation: campgrounds; regulations regarding individuals residing at campgrounds; provide for. Amends sec. 12501 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.12501) & adds sec. 12510a.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 5 co-sponsors

Michigan bill regulates long-term residential camping to preserve campgrounds' recreational purpose while addressing affordable housing tensions in communities.

REASSIGNED TO COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT
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Bill Summary · SB 615

Legislative bill overview

SB 615 amends Michigan's Public Health Code to regulate individuals residing at campgrounds by modifying Section 12501 and adding new Section 12510a. The bill establishes rules governing long-term residential use of campgrounds, addressing the growing practice of people using campgrounds as permanent or semi-permanent housing rather than temporary recreational facilities.

Why is this important

As housing costs rise, more people are using campgrounds as affordable housing alternatives, creating tension between recreational campground operations and residential communities. This bill attempts to balance campground operators' business interests with public health and safety standards while clarifying legal distinctions between temporary camping and residential living arrangements.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and enforcement challenges: Determining what constitutes "residing" versus "camping" and how to enforce residency limits without creating administrative burdens or legal disputes
  • Housing affordability concerns: Restricting long-term campground living may eliminate an affordable housing option for low-income individuals and families during a housing crisis
  • Operator burden vs. local control: Disagreement over whether regulations should be statewide or allow individual municipalities and campground operators to set their own policies

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

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