DEDICATED PUBLIC ACCESS SITES
House Bill 4141
Sponsor: Rep. John Stakoe
Committee: Conservation and Outdoor Recreation
Complete to 2-6-03
A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 4141 AS INTRODUCED 2-4-03
The bill would amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to establish certain allowable uses for a "dedicated public access site", defined to mean a site allowing public access to an inland lake or stream dedicated for use by the public through a written instrument with the register of deeds. Unless otherwise specified with the register of deeds, a dedication for public access would only include the right to enter and exit the inland lake or stream. Dedication of public access would not include the following uses:
· Boat hoists;
· Construction of docks, unless the purpose of a dock is to aid public access and is authorized by the owner of the riparian land (shoreline) on which the access site is located; or,
· Picnicking, sunbathing, or lounging;
Under the bill, if a dock is located at a dedicated public access site, the owner of the riparian land would be required to place a sign at the site that states the allowable uses of the site and those activities that are prohibited at the site. In addition, the bill would prohibit a person from anchoring a vessel overnight on bottomland that is directly offshore of a dedicated public access site.
A person who violates the bill would be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $500 per day. A peace officer would be permitted to issue an appearance ticket (a complaint or notice that directs a person to appear in court) in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure.
MCL 324.30111a
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This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.