MI HB5859

Places burden of proof on permit applicants to demonstrate that proposed uses in critical dune areas will not significantly damage the public interest through depletion or degradation of dune diversity, quality, or functions.

Allows local units of government to adopt zoning ordinances that provide the same or greater level of protection for critical dune areas than the state model zoning plan, rather than limiting them to substantially equivalent protection.

Requires applicants to file single consolidated applications for multiphase developments and multiple critical dune area locations within a local unit of government.

Establishes that local units of government have primary authority to regulate critical dune areas, with the Department of Environmental Quality implementing the model zoning plan only if a local unit does not adopt an approved ordinance.

Repeals section 35311a and makes various technical and clarifying changes to permit application procedures, site plan review requirements, and variance/special exception standards.