The bill amends the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act by updating Section 205 to include new regulations regarding zoning ordinances. Notably, it adds the "data center community benefit agreement act" to the list of acts that zoning ordinances must comply with. Additionally, it clarifies that counties and townships cannot regulate the drilling, completion, or operation of oil or gas wells, nor can they issue permits for these activities. The bill also establishes criteria for challenging zoning decisions related to the extraction of valuable natural resources, emphasizing the need to demonstrate that extraction would not result in very serious consequences.

Furthermore, the bill outlines factors to be considered when determining the potential impact of resource extraction on existing land uses, property values, and public safety. It allows local governments to reasonably regulate aspects of mining operations, such as hours of operation and noise levels, while ensuring that such regulations accommodate customary mining practices. Lastly, it stipulates that renewable energy projects with special land use approval after January 1, 2021, will be considered prior nonconforming uses, protecting them from revocation or modification under certain conditions. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of related legislation.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 125.3205