Please note that shoreline management practices established under Michigan Public Law 14 in 2003, will expire in November 2007. In accordance with Public Law 14, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has reported on the impact activities undertaken under its auspices and has issued a General Permit to clarify which shoreline
management activities require permits and which do not. For additional information, please see: DEQ website
Do you own property along Michigan’s Great Lakes coast? If so, then the Along the Shore booklet is for you (See table below and column on the right). It explains shoreline management activities that may or may not require federal or state permits. You will also find contacts that will answer your permit related questions.
Along the Shore A Shoreline Management Guide for Michigan Coastal Landowners Download
Fluctuating water levels in recent years have led to the emergence of wetland vegetation in many areas where the shore gradually slopes, especially along Saginaw Bay and Grand Traverse Bay. This growth of wetland vegetation is a natural process that plays an important role in revitalizing habitats for multiple fish, wildlife, and bird life-stages. However, the vegetation has also impeded the view and access to the waters edge for some property owners.
Michigan Sea Grant has developed an easy to follow guide to help shoreline property owners understand what regulated and non-regulated activities they can carry out on the beaches in front of their property. The program highlights the value of coastal wetlands and recognizes the need for a balance that both allows property owners to access the water and recognizes the value of this important natural resource.
