Information regarding proposed changes to Michigan zoning laws:

City Council recommended the following information be shared with the residents of Harbor Springs regarding the proposed changes to Michigan zoning laws:

As of early 2026, Michigan lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan package of bills (HB 5529–5532, 5581–5585) aimed at increasing housing supply and reducing costs by easing zoning restrictions. Key proposals include allowing duplexes and ADUs by right, reducing minimum lot/dwelling sizes, capping parking requirements, and streamlining site plan reviews to speed up development approvals. 

Key Proposed Zoning Changes (2026):

• Duplexes and ADUs: Duplexes would be allowed by right in single-family zones, and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs or “mother-in-law suites”) would be authorized on parcels with existing single-family homes. 
• Reduced Minimum Requirements: Bills propose banning minimum lot sizes larger than 1,500–2,500 square feet (if served by public sewer/water) and capping minimum dwelling size requirements at 500 square feet. 
• Parking Mandates: Local governments would be prohibited from requiring more than one parking space per dwelling unit in multi-family developments. 
• Setbacks: Proposals include capping front setbacks to 15 feet and side/rear setbacks to 5 feet for areas in or near Metropolitan Statistical Areas. 
• Site Plan Approval: A 60-day timeline for local governments to approve, reject, or conditionally approve site plans, restricting their ability to ask for excessive, repetitive, or additional studies. 

Potential Impact and Opposition:
These reforms are designed to lower housing costs, but they have prompted opposition from some local governments, such as those represented by the Michigan Townships Association, which argue the legislation limits local authority over community planning and zoning decisions. 

For up-to-date information on the status of these bills, you can track them on the Michigan Legislature website. 

Link to American Planning Association – Michigan Chapter Frequently Asked Questions:

https://www.planningmi.org/aws/MAP/pt/sp/zoning-reform

Link to Legislative Analysis and Summary:

https://legislature.mi.gov/documents/2025-2026/billanalysis/House/pdf/2026-HLA-5529-GQDL4X1W.pdf