Michigan Riparian Resources

Helping Michigan lakefront owners understand their rights and responsibilities. These materials are educational and general in nature. For legal advice tailored to you, contact Outside Legal Counsel PLC.

Guides & Publications

Guide cover with a Michigan lake shoreline

10 Things Every Michigan Lakefront Owner Should Know

Plain-English primer on riparian rights, permitting, and common pitfalls.

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Public road end access point illustration at a lake

Road Ends & Shared Access Rules

Docking, mooring, signage, and enforcement nuances following PA 56 of 2012.

Read Article
Diagram of underwater boundary lines and littoral angles

Riparian Boundaries & Underwater Property Lines

Where your rights extend into the water and how boundaries are determined.

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Natural shoreline with vegetative buffer protecting against erosion

Erosion, Seawalls & Natural Protection

When you need EGLE permits, best practices, and alternatives to hard armoring.

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Key Michigan Laws & Regulations

Leading Cases

  • Bartlett v. City of Lake City — public access and use restrictions.
  • Rafaeli v. Oakland County — property rights & surplus value.
  • Dixon Road Group v. Novi — special assessments & proportionality.

Citations and full opinions are linked where available; local ordinances and HOA/POA rules may add additional restrictions.

Tools & Practical Resources

Special Assessment District (SAD) Center

Notices, timelines, and appeal information for lake-level assessments.

Visit the SAD Center

FOIA Templates

Ready-to-use requests for records from counties, townships, EGLE, and more.

Download Templates

Interactive Diagrams

Visual guides for boundaries, shared access, and shoreline protection.

View Graphics

Podcast & Media

Michigan Rights of Way Podcast

Episodes on riparian disputes, permitting, public trust, and case strategy.

Listen Now

News & Updates

Press releases and case notes on ongoing litigation and legislative changes.

Read Updates

Need Legal Help with a Riparian Issue?

Every waterfront parcel is unique. If you’re facing a dispute or planning shoreline work, talk with an attorney who regularly handles Michigan riparian cases.

Contact OLCPLC (989) 642-0055

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this legal advice?

No. These resources are general information. Laws and regulations change. For advice specific to your situation, please contact an attorney.

Can I copy these materials to my HOA website?

You may link to this page. To reprint or adapt content, request permission to ensure accuracy and context.

Where do I find my lake’s assessment documents?

Start with your county’s lake board or drain commissioner. Our SAD Center explains notices, appeals, and deadlines.