State Permits: What Michigan Lakefront Owners Need to Know
In Michigan, riparian rights give lakefront property owners special privileges, but those rights exist alongside state and local regulations. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) oversees activities that affect the waters of the state, including inland lakes, streams, wetlands, and the Great Lakes.
Understanding when you need a permit—and how to stay compliant—is critical for avoiding costly enforcement actions and disputes with neighbors. Many seemingly routine shoreline projects require EGLE authorization. Examples include:
| Activity | Discussion |
|---|---|
| Docks and Piers | Seasonal docks used for mooring boats are generally allowed without a permit if they are reasonable in size and do not interfere with navigation or neighbors. However, permanent structures, large platforms, or multiple docking slips often require prior approval. |
| Dredging and Bottomland Alteration | Removing sediment, creating boat wells, or altering lakebeds almost always requires a state permit. Unauthorized dredging can trigger significant penalties and restoration orders. |
| Seawalls, Riprap, and Shoreline Hardening | Erosion control projects are heavily regulated. EGLE distinguishes between “soft” natural shoreline protections, which may be encouraged, and hard structural solutions, which often need careful justification./SAD |
| Fill and Construction | Placing sand, fill, or structures into or near the water requires permitting, even if intended to improve a beach or access area. |
Failure to secure a required permit can result in civil fines, forced removal of structures, or litigation by neighbors and associations. Conversely, obtaining the right approvals not only protects you legally, but also demonstrates good stewardship of Michigan’s waterways.
By combining awareness of riparian rights with respect for the permitting process, lakefront owners can enjoy the full use of their property while preserving Michigan’s treasured lakes and streams for generations to come.