Does Your Project Need a Permit?

Protecting Michigan's Shoreline

Every permitting requirement in Michigan exists to protect our freshwater resources. Properties near Lake Michigan, wetlands, or critical dunes are subject to extra scrutiny — and for good reason. Unpermitted work near water accelerates erosion and damages ecosystems. We make sure your project protects the landscape it's built in.

Permits Work Top Down

State approval must come before county, county before township. Skip the order and your project stalls.

Step 1 — State & Federal

EGLE & Army Corps Permit

Required for critical dunes, Lake Michigan shores, and wetland-adjacent properties. One joint application covers both agencies. Must be approved before anything else.

Step 2 — County

Soil & Erosion Permit

Required in both Grand Traverse and Leelanau County for medium to large-scale work. In hand before township will act.

Step 3 — Township

Local Permits

Each township has its own setbacks, surface reviews, and planting rules. Often the most variable and time-consuming layer.

County Requirements – Grand Traverse & Leelanau

Grand Traverse County
Soil & Erosion Permit

Standard Triggers:

• Within 500 ft of any lake or stream

• Disturbing more than 1 acre

Also Requires a Permit:

• Within 500 ft of regulated wetlands or a County Drain

• Slopes of 20% or greater

• Heavy clay / hydrologic group D soils

Leelanau County
Soil & Erosion Permit

Standard Triggers:

• Within 500 ft of any lake or stream

• Disturbing more than 1 acre

Also Requires a Permit:

• All commercial projects

• Within 100 ft of a regulated wetland

• Driveway slope of 10% or greater

• Any work in Leland or Solon townships

  ---

  Township Permits Are the Trickiest

  Every township writes its own rules. What’s allowed in one may be restricted in another.

  Long Lake Township

  • Specific setback requirements from the lakeshore for patios and structures

  Peninsula Township

  • Impervious surface review near water

  • Native planting requirements along the shoreline

  Note:

  • Township permits are always separate from — and in addition to — county permits

    ---

    Skip Permits and…
    The Risks Aren’t Worth It

    • Hefty fines from state and county agencies

    • Forced removal of all unpermitted work

    • Required environmental restoration at your cost

    • Future permits denied on your property

    • Complications when selling your home

    ---

    We Handle Every Permit For You

    Sign with us and the permitting process is entirely off your plate — from EGLE to your township’s final approval.

    • EGLE & Army Corps coordination

    • Grand Traverse & Leelanau County filings

    • Township-level reviews and approvals

    • Full compliance documentation