Michigan Zoning & Land Use Laws

Cottage Food Law

Michigan Cottage Food Law (Michigan Food Law, MCL 289.4101 et seq.): Michigan allows home-based food production and direct-to-consumer sale without a food establishment license for qualifying cottage food products. Permitted products include baked goods, jams, jellies, candy, dried herbs, and similar non-potentially-hazardous items. Annual gross revenue limit of $25,000 per year. Direct-to-consumer sales from the home, at farmers markets, roadside stands, and online (with in-person delivery). No retail distribution. Products must be labeled with: producer name and home address, product name, ingredient list in descending order, net weight, allergen statement, and 'Made in a Home Kitchen Not Inspected by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.' No state license or registration required. Michigan updated its cottage food law in 2022 to include allergen labeling requirements. Michigan's diverse food culture and extensive farmers market network make cottage food a significant small business sector in the state.

Short-Term Rental Law

Michigan enacted preemption of local STR bans in 2023 — Michigan Act 20 of 2023 prohibits municipalities from banning short-term rentals in residential zones outright, while still allowing reasonable time, place, and manner regulations. Michigan imposes a 6% Use Tax on short-term rentals. STR platforms collect and remit Michigan state tax. Local jurisdictions (Traverse City, Mackinac Island, Grand Haven) retain authority to regulate STR licensing, density, and operational requirements — but cannot enact outright bans.

Michigan Cities with Zoning Data