State Rep. Matthew Bierlein today introduced legislation that would reduce unnecessary permitting requirements for Michigan homeowners who want to build small ponds on their property.

Under current state environmental permitting laws, property owners are often required to obtain a permit before excavating or constructing a pond on their land, even when the project is small and intended only for personal use. Bierlein said the requirement can create unexpected costs and delays for people simply trying to improve their property.

“Environmental protections are important, but we should also make sure the rules are practical and reasonable for homeowners acting in good faith,” said Bierlein (R- Vassar). “If someone wants to build a small pond on their own property for personal use, they shouldn’t be forced to navigate a complicated state permitting process.”

The legislation was inspired by a situation involving a Freeland-area family in Bierlein’s district who built a pond on their property after being told by local officials that a permit was not required. After a complaint was filed, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy later determined the area was a regulated wetland and ordered much of the pond filled in, prompting concerns about regulatory overreach.

House Bill 5707 would specifically exempt property zoned for residential or agricultural use from needing a state permit to excavate or construct a pond if the pond is less than one acre in surface area and intended for noncommercial, residential use. The legislation maintains permitting requirements for larger or commercial projects.

Bierlein said this bill strikes a commonsense balance by protecting environmental safeguards where they are needed while removing unnecessary regulatory hurdles for people making modest improvements on their own land.

“Thank you Representative Bierlein for introducing HB 5707,” said Zach Wenzlick, whose family has been involved in the dispute. “This bill strengthens private property rights by protecting property owners who desire to enhance their property and the environment by adding a recreational pond without fear of state department overreach.”

House Bill 5707 was introduced today and will be considered by the Michigan House in the coming weeks.