MI HB5166

Establishes an Office of Aquaculture Development within the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development with a program manager to oversee registration and permitting of aquaculture facilities and conduct industry outreach.

Expands definition of aquaculture facilities to include both land-based and water-based facilities, with water-based facilities permitted in state waters if they do not prevent reasonable navigation, are in low-use areas outside harbors, and comply with all applicable law.

Requires aquaculture facility operators to obtain either a registration (for commercial operations) or research permit (for confinement research facilities studying non-approved species), with application fees of $100-$250 and annual fees of $75.

Limits initial approval of water-based aquaculture facilities in the Great Lakes to no more than 10 facilities for 5 years and establishes a 5-year validity period for all registrations and permits with renewal deadlines and application requirements.

Classifies aquaculture as an agricultural enterprise entitled to all rights and protections of other agricultural operations, and exempts certain aquaculturists (those using private waters for non-commercial purposes, retail bait outlets, ornamental fish facilities, and public aquariums/zoos) from registration requirements.