The bill amends the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act by updating the requirements for protest petitions related to zoning ordinance amendments in cities and villages. It specifies that if a protest petition is submitted, the approval of the zoning amendment requires a 2/3 vote of the legislative body, unless a higher threshold is set by local ordinance or charter. The bill also clarifies that the protest petition must be submitted before final legislative action and must be signed by at least 1 owner of 20% of the land affected or within a specified distance from the proposed change. If the amendment increases the number of dwelling units, the required signatures increase to 60%.

Additionally, the bill outlines the necessary components of a protest petition, including a warning about the consequences of signing improperly and the requirements for the circulator of the petition. It establishes penalties for individuals who violate the signing rules, such as signing more than once or making false statements. The city or village clerk is tasked with verifying the ownership of the land indicated in the petition and ensuring its adequacy.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 125.3403