A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” by amending section 73102 (MCL 324.73102), as amended by 1998 PA 546.
HB 5561 seeks to amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994, specifically section 73102, to refine the conditions under which individuals may enter or remain on another person's property for recreational activities or trapping. The bill stipulates that entry without the owner's consent is prohibited if the property is fenced, posted with signs, or marked with purple paint as approved by the Department. The signs must have letters at least one inch high and cover an area of at least 50 square inches, spaced to ensure visibility at any entry point. Purple paint marks must be vertical lines at least eight inches long, placed between three and five feet above the ground, and spaced no more than 100 feet apart. The bill also clarifies that farm property or wooded areas connected to farm property are included in these restrictions. However, it allows fishermen to enter fenced or posted property or farm property within the banks of a navigable public stream without consent, provided they do not damage farm products and avoid hazards. Additionally, individuals without firearms may enter another's property to retrieve hunting dogs unless previously prohibited by the owner. Consent to enter can be given orally or in writing, and written consent can be amended or revoked orally unless otherwise specified.
HB 5562 seeks to amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994 by modifying sections 73104 and 73105. The primary objective of these amendments is to regulate the use of signs and purple paint marks for indicating property boundaries and restrictions on activities such as hunting, fishing, trapping, and other recreational activities. Specifically, the bill prohibits individuals from removing, defacing, or destroying signs or purple paint marks that have been posted on trees or posts under the provisions of this part of the Act. Additionally, it restricts the posting of signs or placement of purple paint marks on another person's property to prohibit recreational activities without the written permission of the property owner, lessee, or agent.
Co-sponsored by Reps.
Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation
