Bill > HB4049

This bill amends the Michigan zoning enabling act to make two key changes regarding residential property use. First, it clarifies that homeowners can use their single-family residence for teaching crafts or fine arts as a home occupation. Second, and more significantly, the bill establishes that rearing egg-laying hens is a permitted use in residential zones without requiring special approvals, provided two conditions are met: the property is at least 1/4 acre in size, and the number of hens does not exceed 5 per 1/4 acre, with a maximum of 25 hens total. The bill explicitly maintains local governments' ability to regulate related issues such as noise, traffic, and hours of operation. Importantly, the bill will only take effect if companion House Bill 4050 is also enacted, creating a legislative tie bar that ensures both measures must pass. This legislation aims to provide homeowners with more flexibility in using their residential property for small-scale agricultural activities like keeping backyard chickens.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4049