MI HB6165

Centralizes critical dune area permitting authority with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, removing local government discretion to issue permits under a model zoning plan.

Establishes tiered permit fees: $150-$300 for minor projects, $2,000 for standard uses, and $4,000 for special uses, with adjustments every 3 years based on Detroit Consumer Price Index.

Requires preapplication meetings with the department for proposed uses, with fees ranging from $50-$2,500 depending on location and acreage.

Replaces specific zoning restrictions (slope limits, setbacks, building placement) with broader standards requiring departmental determination that uses will not cause unacceptable disruption to dune benefits and that issuance serves the public interest.

Eliminates the model zoning plan framework and repeals sections authorizing local variance procedures, special exceptions, and planning commission review authority.