Bolthole Index

Alger County, Michigan

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Alger County, Michigan

87Index Score / 100
#4 of 83 in Michigan

Alger County, Michigan requires a building permit for new homes, camps, garages, decks, porches and storage buildings, issued by the county Building Codes Department1. Alger County has no countywide zoning, so the township, the City of Munising or the Village of Chatham sets zoning approval and land-use rules for each parcel23. Septic and well permits come from the LMAS District Health Department for every address, and health approval comes before the county building permit41.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for new homes, camps, garages, decks, porches, storage buildings and commercial work; ordinary repairs may be exempt15
Zoning
No countywide system; local rules vary, while Limestone Township is listed with no zoning23
Septic permits
LMAS District Health Department (Luce-Mackinac-Alger-Schoolcraft); must be approved before a county building permit issues41
Well permits
Also through LMAS District Health Department before drilling6
Certificate of occupancy
Required statewide before using or occupying a new or altered building; $50 county fee78
Driveway permit
Required where a driveway connects to a county or state road9
Owner-builder
A licensing exemption can apply when you build on your own property for your own use and occupancy; permits and inspections still apply10
Off-grid sanitation
LMAS bars waterless toilets and several other systems; a remote privy may qualify where utilities and plumbing are unavailable11

Who to call

Building permits

Alger County Building Codes Department

Building, electrical, mechanical and plumbing-adjacent building permits, plan review, inspections, 911 address signs, driveway permits on county or state roads, and certificates of occupancy for Alger County

(906) 387-2727

buildingcodes@algercounty.gov

101 Court Street, Munising, MI 49862

Online permits →

Septic permits

LMAS District Health Department, Alger County Office

Sewage disposal (septic) construction permits, site evaluations, facility evaluations, and well permits/notifications for Alger County

(906) 387-2297

E9526 Prospect St., Munising, MI 49862

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Alger County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Alger County, Michigan?

Yes. The Alger County Building Codes Department issues building permits for new construction and alterations to homes, camps, garages, decks, porches and storage buildings, and all commercial work requires a permit112. Michigan's statewide construction-code framework applies, with ordinary repairs subject to a limited permit exception5. Alger County enforces building and electrical codes, while mechanical and plumbing are state jurisdictions13. A building incidental to the agricultural use of its land can be exempt from the building permit if it is not used for retail trade, but that exemption does not waive zoning, septic, soil-erosion, driveway or trade-permit requirements14. Michigan's owner-builder licensing exemption can apply when an individual builds on their own property for their own use and occupancy, but permits, inspections, code, zoning and utility requirements remain10. Electrical, mechanical and plumbing permits are separate requirements from the building permit15. Health approval for a well or septic comes before the building permit, and soil-erosion approval applies within 500 feet of a lake or stream or for excavation of at least 1 acre1.

Who issues building permits in Alger County, and how do you reach them?

The Alger County Building Codes Department, run by the county's Building Codes Inspector, is at 101 Court Street, Munising, MI 49862, reachable at (906) 387-2727 or buildingcodes@algercounty.gov12. This same office issues driveway permits for any access onto a county or state road, and 911 address-sign applications tie in through the county Sheriff's Department1216. Applications need two sets of construction documents, though a licensed design professional's seal isn't required for most one- and two-family dwellings under 3,500 square feet17. The first $100 of a permit application is non-refundable, a re-inspection runs another $100, and a certificate of occupancy costs $50 once the county signs off on your finished build8. Zoning approval is handled separately by your township, the City of Munising, or the Village of Chatham, not by this office, so contact that local government too before you build1218.

Does Alger County have zoning, and who sets it?

Not at the county level. Alger County has no countywide zoning ordinance or county-administered zoning system2. Au Train, Burt, Grand Island, Mathias, Munising, Onota and Rock River Townships, the Village of Chatham and the City of Munising have separate zoning contacts, while Limestone Township is listed with no zoning3. Setbacks, dwelling size, height and permitted uses therefore depend on the parcel's local jurisdiction19. Au Train Township's district minimums range from 15,000 square feet to 5 acres, with special rules for nonconforming and waterfront lots20. The City of Munising allows one accessory dwelling unit of 200 to 600 square feet on a residentially zoned lot, subject to design, parking, building and fire-safety standards21. Limestone Township's lack of zoning does not remove county building, state or health approvals1.

What do Alger County's townships require for setbacks and home size?

Dimensional rules differ by township, so the figures below apply only where named. In Au Train Township's R1/R2 districts, the minimum lot is 15,000 square feet, and front setbacks are 30 feet and side and rear setbacks 10 feet; lots on Lake Superior need structures at least 50 feet from the ordinary high-water mark and inland lakes or rivers at least 30 feet.2223 In Rock River Township, structures on lots abutting a body of water must keep a 75-foot setback from the ordinary high-water mark, and accessory buildings cannot sit inside the minimum front yard.24 Burt Township requires a single- or two-family dwelling to have at least 600 square feet of floor area, not counting unfinished basements, garages, porches and breezeways, under an ordinance revised in 2015 that the township should confirm is still current.25 We could not confirm height or lot-coverage limits at the county level, so ask the zoning administrator for your parcel's township.19

How do septic and well permits work in Alger County?

Septic and well approvals in Alger County go through the LMAS District Health Department, and health approval is required before Alger County issues a building permit261. New, modified and replacement sewage systems need a permit and a site evaluation for soil suitability, placement and environmental impact2728. Only 2.5% of Alger County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the site evaluation an early purchase contingency29. For an existing system, LMAS begins with record review and may require an on-site evaluation; the tank generally must be pumped unless it was pumped within the prior 3 years and the licensed-hauler records are available30. LMAS does not permit cesspools, lagoons, constructed wetlands, pump-and-haul, septic-tank-only systems or waterless toilets, while a privy is limited to a remote site without utilities or plumbing and must meet local and state rules11. New, repaired and replacement residential wells also go through LMAS31.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Alger County?

RV occupancy is local, not countywide. Au Train Township limits RV occupancy outside an approved campground to 180 days32. Burt Township's Inland Buffer Zone allows up to 14 days per year without residential-dwelling requirements if the RV is self-contained and waste goes to an approved dumping station; longer occupancy must meet dwelling, foundation, water and sewage requirements33. Munising Township permits registered RV dwelling use on a lot without a principal building for up to 120 consecutive days in specified districts and permits an RV as a temporary residence while its residential building permit remains valid34. In the City of Munising, the limit is 120 total calendar days in H-1 and H-2 districts, or 30 total days in other applicable districts, with registration and setback conditions35. We could not confirm RV rules for every other township or the Village of Chatham, so ask the parcel's zoning administrator3. We could not confirm a countywide tiny-home occupancy rule; ask the local zoning administrator and the county Building Codes Department before buying or placing one212.

Building a home in Alger County: the steps, in order

  1. Confirm the parcel's township or municipality and its zoning rules, because Alger County has no countywide zoning system23.
  2. Order a septic and, if needed, well site evaluation from LMAS, then obtain the required health approval before applying to the county28271.
  3. Obtain soil-erosion approval if the project is within 500 feet of a lake or stream or involves at least 1 acre of excavation1.
  4. Apply for the required fire-number address sign, which must be visible from the street17.
  5. Submit two sets of construction documents and the health approval to the Alger County Building Codes Department1217.
  6. Obtain a driveway permit if access connects to a county or state road9.
  7. After construction, inspections and fee payment, request the certificate of occupancy before moving in78.

What to check before you buy land in Alger County

Confirm the parcel's township or municipality and its local zoning rules before buying, because Alger County has no countywide zoning ordinance23. Only 2.5% of Alger County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make an LMAS site evaluation part of your due diligence29. Ask LMAS about the well location too: a residential well application must show the proposed well and contamination sources within 200 feet31. If the driveway will connect to a county or state road, confirm the required driveway permit and which agency will issue it9. For land in a regulated river, stream or drain floodplain, Michigan can require a Part 31 permit; new homes are prohibited in the floodway, while a residential floor in the 100-year floodplain must be elevated 1 foot above the flood elevation36. The effective property-tax rate is about 1%, and the median annual bill is about $1,6523738.

Watch-outs

  • Michigan's owner-builder licensing exemption applies only when an individual builds on their own property for their own use and occupancy; it does not waive permits, inspections, zoning or utility rules10.
  • Au Train, Burt and Munising Townships and the City of Munising have distinct RV rules, so a limit from one jurisdiction cannot be carried over to another32333435.
  • A municipal sewer connection is required when available for proposed campground campsite sewer connections or a bathhouse; this campground rule does not answer utility requirements for a private homesite39.
  • Burt Township's 600-square-foot minimum dwelling size comes from an ordinance revised in 2015, so confirm with the township that it is still in force before designing a small home25.

Sources

  1. Alger County Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  2. Building Codes - Alger County, quoted and re-checked
  3. Building Codes - Alger County, quoted and re-checked
  4. LMAS District Health Department - Sewage Disposal (2026 county census)
  5. Code Books, quoted and re-checked
  6. Before you start a well drilling business, quoted and re-checked
  7. Certificate of Occupancy Request, quoted and re-checked
  8. Application Building Permit and Plan Examination, quoted and re-checked
  9. Alger County Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  10. Frequently Asked Questions – Residential Builder (Michigan statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Sewage Disposal - Public Health | LMAS District, quoted and re-checked
  12. Alger County Building Codes Department (algercounty.gov)
  13. Code Books, quoted and re-checked
  14. STILLE-DEROSSETT-HALE SINGLE STATE CONSTRUCTION CODE ACT, quoted and re-checked
  15. Alger County Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  16. Alger County Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  17. Alger County Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  18. ALGER COUNTY ZONING ADMINISTRATION, quoted and re-checked
  19. Alger County Building Codes, quoted and re-checked
  20. Zoning - Au Train Township, Michigan, quoted and re-checked
  21. City of Munising Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  22. Au Train Township Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  23. Au Train Township Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  24. Zoning Ordinance of Rock River Township, quoted and re-checked
  25. Burt Township Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  26. Sewage Disposal - Public Health | LMAS District, quoted and re-checked
  27. Sewage Disposal - Public Health | LMAS District, quoted and re-checked
  28. LMAS District Health Department, Alger County Office (lmasdhd.org)
  29. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Application for Residential Sewage Disposal and Water Supply Systems, quoted and re-checked
  31. Application for Residential Sewage Disposal and Water Supply Systems, quoted and re-checked
  32. Au Train Township Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  33. Burt Township Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  34. Munising Township Zoning Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  35. City of Munising Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  36. Floodplains, quoted and re-checked
  37. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  38. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  39. Starting a campground, quoted and re-checked

Written October 9, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 4 of its 6 neighbors, Alger County has no countywide zoning.

RuleAlger CountySchoolcraft CountyDelta CountyMarquette CountyLuce CountyDickinson CountyMenominee County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningNoYesYesYesYesNoNo
Septic permitsLMAS District Health Dept.LMAS District Health Dept.Public HealthCounty Health Dept.LMAS District Health Dept.Dickinson-Iron District Health Dept.Public Health

County locator

Alger County in Michigan

87
County map
Alger County highlighted among the Michigan counties · colored by Index score

How Alger County scores

Seclusion91100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency57100% ev.
Admin Boringness5890% ev.
Durability76100% ev.
Property Autonomy77100% ev.
Carry Cost84100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$223kTypical home
1%Property tax
$2,348Land / acre
35"Annual rain
1.2% of yrsSevere drought
0.4 / yr (+0.4)Mid-century 100°F days
9.9 daysMid-century dry spell
1.34" (+12.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.53×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$926Home insurance / yr
-0.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.61%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
3,865People within 30 min
135,826People within 2 hr
6,665Radius comparison (15 mi)
9.6People / sq mi
30.4%Federal land
91.1%Land at 15% slope or less
2.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
14,315 acWorkable land screen
87.1%Wooded land
49.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
41.5°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Alger County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Au Train Township · Burt Township · Village of Chatham · Grand Island Township · Limestone Township · Mathias Township · Munising · Munising Township · Onota Township · Rock River Township

Answers from the rulebook for Alger County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Alger County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    New construction and alterations of homes, camps, garages, decks, porches, storage buildings, and commercial work in Alger County.

    • Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits are separate issues and are required.
    • Well and/or septic approval is required before the county building inspector can issue a building permit.
    • Soil erosion and sedimentation control applies if a building is within 500 feet of a lake or stream or if excavation is one acre or more, regardless of location.
    • All commercial work requires a permit.
    • Zoning is handled by individual townships.

    lake or stream distance threshold: <= 500 feet · excavation threshold: >= 1 acre (regardless of location)

    “A reminder as to which projects we need a building permit for new construction and alteration of homes, camps, garages, decks, porches, and storage buildings.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New construction and alterations of homes, camps, garages, decks, porches, storage buildings, and all commercial work administered by the Alger County Building Codes Department.
      “A reminder as to which projects we need a building permit for new construction and alteration of homes, camps, garages, decks, porches, and storage buildings.”
  • County-wide zoningAbsent

    A countywide zoning ordinance or county-administered zoning system in Alger County.

    • The county page states that zoning is handled by individual townships; local township, village, and city rules may apply.
    • This claim does not determine the substance of any local zoning ordinance.
    “In Alger County, all zoning is handled by individual townships.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Absent — County-administered zoning across Alger County.
      “In Alger County, all zoning is handled by individual townships.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning across Alger County townships and incorporated jurisdictions, aggregated at the county level.

    • The county states that all zoning is handled by individual townships.
    • The county zoning-administration schedule lists AuTrain, Burt, Grand Island, Mathias, Munising, Onota, and Rock River Townships, plus the Village of Chatham and City of Munising, as zoning contacts.
    • The same schedule states: Limestone Township No Zoning.
    • The applicable local ordinance, district, permit, and dimensional requirements must be checked with the relevant township, village, or city.
    “Grand Island Township John Shauver 906-869-4323 Limestone Township No Zoning Mathias Township Jason McCarthy 906-399-1808”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning status across Alger County townships and municipalities; local zoning is administered by the named township, village, or city rather than by the county as a whole.
      “Grand Island Township John Shauver 906-869-4323 [...] Limestone Township No Zoning Mathias Township Jason McCarthy 906-399-1808”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Aggregate publication of zoning administration across Alger County; the underlying zoning districts and ordinances are administered by individual townships, the City of Munising, and the Village of Chatham rather than uniformly by Alger County.

    • AuTrain, Burt, Grand Island, Mathias, Munising, Onota, and Rock River Townships have listed zoning administrators.
    • Limestone Township is listed as having no zoning.
    • The City of Munising and Village of Chatham have separate listed zoning contacts.
    • The reviewed county materials do not publish a complete countywide district map or the full district regulations for each local jurisdiction.
    “Limestone Township No Zoning”
  • Who permits septicLocal

    Individual sewage systems in Alger County served by the LMAS District Health Department.

    • LMAS serves Luce, Mackinac, Alger, and Schoolcraft Counties.
    • The program operates under state and local health regulations and follows the Upper Peninsula Environmental Health Code and technical manuals.
    “Serving Luce, Mackinac, Alger & Schoolcraft Counties [...] This program regulates [...] individual sewage systems”
  • Septic permitRequired

    New, modified, or replacement sewage disposal systems in Alger County within the LMAS District Health Department jurisdiction.

    • A site evaluation is conducted before installation to assess soil suitability, system placement, and environmental impact.
    • The proposed system must be installed by an LMAS District Health Department licensed septic installer or by the property owner.
    • The residential application requires appropriate fees, complete application materials, and a scheduled site visit.
    • A permit will not be issued without necessary zoning approval when applicable.
    • The residential application states that site evaluation and permit issuance may take at least two weeks.
    • The permit remains valid for two years from issuance; a written extension must be requested within 30 days after expiration, and permits are non-transferable between property owners.
    • Privies must comply with local zoning, Michigan construction codes, technical bulletins, policies, and advisories.

    residential site evaluation fee: 200 USD · residential conventional no-fill permit fee: 350 USD · residential advanced treatment permit fee: 700 USD · permit validity: 2 years (from date of issuance) · permit-extension request period: 30 days (after permit expiration)

    “Permit will not be issued until full payment”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Site evaluations and existing-facility evaluations for residential sewage systems in Alger County.

    • A site visit is required for septic-tank-only or vault-privy requests.
    • For replacement septic tanks, demonstration of field performance is required.
    • If no permit is on record, a complete existing evaluation may be needed.
    • An existing-facility evaluation includes file review of permits, inspections, well logs, and pump records; an on-site evaluation may then be required.
    • During an existing sewage-system evaluation, the septic tank must be pumped unless it was pumped within the last three years and required licensed-hauler information is available.
    • The applicant must uncover specified septic tank and drainfield components for inspection.

    acceptable prior septic pumping period: <= 3 years (required information from the licensed septage hauler must be available)

    “If Environmental Health Staff determine that an on-site evaluation is required [...] shall coordinate a date and time”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Existing residential and commercial sewage systems in Alger County.
      “LMAS offers facility evaluation services for existing residential and commercial sewage systems to determine compliance with health regulations and identify maintenance needs.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Privies and other off-grid sanitation arrangements for remote occupied structures in Alger County.

    • Privies are intended for remote sites with no available public utilities or plumbing in a livable structure.
    • Privies may be subject to local township ordinances regarding type and location.
    • Privies are not allowed where they fail to comply with local zoning, Michigan construction codes, technical bulletins, policies, and advisories.
    • LMAS does not permit cesspools, lagoons, constructed wetlands, pump-and-haul or septic-tank-only systems, or waterless toilets such as composting, incinerating, and dry-flush systems.
    “LMAS DOES NOT permit [...] Waterless Toilets”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Privies or outhouses at remote Alger County sites without available public utilities or plumbing.
      “Privies may be subject to local township ordinances regarding type and location and are intended for remote sites with no available public utilities or plumbing.”
    • Prohibited — Cesspools, lagoons, constructed wetlands, pump-and-haul or septic-tank-only systems, and waterless toilets such as composting, incinerating, and dry-flush systems in the LMAS District Health Department service area.
      “There are certain systems that LMAS DOES NOT permit, including: [...] Waterless Toilets such as Composting, Incinerating, and Dry-flush systems”
  • Well permitRequired

    New, repair, or replacement residential water-supply wells in Alger County handled through LMAS.

    • The well must be constructed by a registered Michigan well driller or by the property owner at the primary residence.
    • The residential application requires a site plan showing the proposed well and contamination sources within 200 feet.
    • An old well must be abandoned for a repair/replacement water-supply application.
    • Pressurized water may not be plumbed to a building without an approved septic connection or available sewer; if a permit is still sought, an approved hand pump and final inspection are required.
    • Open-loop geothermal wells require a water-well permit and must be constructed by a licensed well driller.

    residential water-supply application fee: 320 USD · well-site contamination-source review radius: 200 feet

    “Residential WATER SUPPLY ($320): New Repair/Replacement”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Driveway access serving property in Alger County where the driveway connects to a county road or state road.

    • The Alger County page states that county or state roads require a driveway permit; the administering authority for a state-road permit may be the State of Michigan rather than the county.
    • The cited rule does not establish a driveway permit requirement for private roads or other access types.
    “Driveway Permit, county or state roads require a driveway permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Driveway access serving construction where the access connects to a county road or state road in Alger County.
      “Driveway Permit, county or state roads require a driveway permit.”
  • Permit feesVariable (with conditions)

    Alger County building permit applications administered by the Alger County Building Code Administration.

    • The total permit fee depends on the project and is completed by the department using administration, plan review, inspection, and other applicable charges.
    • The first $100.00 of an application is non-refundable.

    re-inspection fee: 100 USD · certificate of occupancy fee: 50 USD · first application amount: 100 USD (non-refundable)

    “Re-Inspection $100.00 CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY ($50.00 FEE)”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    New construction and alterations of homes, camps, garages, decks, porches, storage buildings, and commercial work handled through Alger County Building Codes.

    • Zoning is handled by individual townships in Alger County.
    • Well and/or septic approval is required before the county can issue a building permit.
    • Soil erosion and sedimentation control applies when a building is within 500 feet of a lake or stream or when excavating one acre or more.
    • A fire number/address visible from the street is required for new buildings.
    • Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits are separate and required.
    • Two sets of construction documents are required with each permit application; sealing and signing exceptions apply to one- and two-family dwellings under 3,500 square feet and public works under $15,000.

    soil erosion threshold near water: 500 feet (building or earth change within 500 feet of a lake or stream) · soil erosion excavation threshold: >= 1 acre (regardless of location) · roof live snow load: >= 70 pounds per square foot (without reductions) · construction document sets: 2 sets

    “2 sets of construction documents are required with each application for a permit.”

Michigan rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    Michigan residential-builder licensing when an individual erects a residential structure or combination residential and commercial structure for the individual's own use and occupancy on the individual's property.

    • The exemption concerns the residential-builder licensing definition and does not eliminate otherwise applicable building-permit, inspection, code, zoning, or utility requirements.
    • The owner-builder must personally satisfy the statutory own-use, own-occupancy, and own-property conditions stated in the source.
    • The source states that persons constructing residential structures for compensation are generally within the residential-builder licensing definition, subject to statutory exceptions.
    “or a person who erects a residential structure or combination residential and commercial structure except for the person's own use and occupancy on the person's property.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Construction, alteration, relocation, demolition, use, and occupancy of buildings and structures statewide in Michigan, including residential requirements administered under the Michigan Residential Code.

    • The current Michigan Building Code is the 2021 edition and is effective April 9, 2025.
    • The rule adopts the International Building Code by reference with Michigan amendments and exceptions.
    • The adopted rule excludes sections 104.2, 104.3, 104.8, 104.8.1, 104.10, 105.3, 105.3.1, 105.3.2, 105.6, 109.2 to 109.6, 111.2, 111.3, 113.2, 113.3, 113.4, 114.1, 114.2, 114.3, 114.4, 115.1 to 115.4, 423.5, 423.5.1, 423.5.2, 903.2.8.4, 2902 to 2902.6, Table 2902.1, section 3005.5, the definition of agricultural building in section 202, and the definition of recreational vehicle in Appendix G.
    • The rule also incorporates IECC 2021, IEBC 2021, IMC 2021, IPC 2021, IPSDC 2021, and NFPA 70 2023 as listed in chapter 35.
    • Residential requirements are contained in the Michigan Residential Code.
    • The code may be purchased from the International Code Council through the bureau website at a cost of $144.00 as of the time of adoption of the amendatory rules.

    building code edition: 2021 Michigan Building Code (Michigan amendments and listed exceptions apply) · effective date: 2025-04-09

    “The provisions of the international building code, 2021 edition, including appendices F, G, and H, except for [...] govern the construction, alteration, relocation, demolition, use, and occupancy of buildings and structures, and, with exceptions noted, the international building code is adopted by reference in these rules.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — State construction-code requirements applicable to building construction in Alger County.
      “ALGER ALGER COUNTY COUNTY COUNTY STATE STATE”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Construction, alteration, use, occupancy, and related building-permit enforcement in Alger County under Michigan's statewide construction-code framework.
      “2021 Michigan Building Code -Current Code-Effective April 9, 2025 [...] 2015 Michigan Residential Code Current Code – Effective February 8, 2016”
  • InspectionsRequired

    All construction undertaken pursuant to a building permit issued by an enforcing agency in Michigan.

    • The enforcing agency must periodically inspect the permitted construction.
    • Inspections are to ensure that construction complies with building-permit conditions, the code, and other applicable laws and ordinances.
    • The cited rule concerns construction undertaken pursuant to a building permit issued by the enforcing agency; it does not establish an inspection requirement for work exempt from permitting.
    • Inspection administration may be performed by the state or by a local enforcing agency according to the applicable jurisdictional assignment.

    inspection frequency: periodic

    “An enforcing agency shall periodically inspect all construction undertaken pursuant to a building permit issued by it to insure that the construction is performed in”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — All construction undertaken pursuant to a building permit issued by a Michigan enforcing agency.
      “An enforcing agency shall periodically inspect all construction undertaken pursuant to a building permit issued by it to insure that the construction is performed in accordance with conditions of the building permit and is consistent with requirements of the code and other applicable laws and ordinances.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    A new building or altered building subject to the Michigan construction code.

    • The building or altered building may not be used or occupied until the code official issues a Certificate of Occupancy.
    • The permit holder or authorized agent must submit a written request after project completion.
    • The request must include applicable building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, boiler, elevator, plan-review, and school fire-services project numbers.
    • The certificate cannot be issued until all fees are paid, permits are finaled, and permitted work is completed in accordance with the permit, code, and applicable laws and ordinances.
    • If an electrical, mechanical, plumbing, boiler, elevator, plan-review, or Fire Services project is not required, the request must state “not applicable.”
    “A new building or a building that is altered shall not be used or occupied until a Certificate of Occupancy is issued by the code official.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — A new building or an altered building subject to Michigan construction-code enforcement, including applicable projects in Alger County.
      “A new building or a building that is altered shall not be used or occupied until a Certificate of Occupancy is issued by the code official.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Buildings and premises in Michigan that have plumbing fixtures or drainage piping.

    • Connection must be to a public sewer where available, or otherwise to an approved private sewage disposal system.
    • Plumbing work cannot begin until the appropriate enforcing agency issues a permit.
    • Local requirements may apply to water service and building sewer installation.
    “Every building in which plumbing fixtures are installed [...] shall be connected to a public sewer, where available, or an approved private sewage disposal system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Campground campsite sewer connections or bathhouses, including occupied recreational units in a campground in Alger County.
      “If campsite sewer connections or a bathhouse is proposed, a connection to municipal sanitary sewer must be made if available.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Building-permit exemption for shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes under Michigan Building Code Part 4.

    • The exemption applies to shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes.
    • Service systems are excluded from the exemption.
    • The exemption does not authorize work violating the building code or other laws or ordinances of the jurisdiction.
    “Exemptions from permit requirements of the code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of the code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for any of the following: [...] (x) Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — Buildings incidental to agricultural use of land in Alger County under Michigan's Single State Construction Code Act.
      “MCL 125.1510(8) provides that “a building permit is not required for a building incidental to the use for agricultural purposes of the land on which the building is located if it is not used in the business of retail trade.””
    • Conditional — Building-permit exemption for shade-cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes in Michigan, including Alger County.
      “Exemptions from permit requirements of the code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of the code or other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. [...] (x) Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision plat review and administration under Michigan's Land Division Act statewide.

    • The Office of Land Survey and Remonumentation administers applicable Land Division Act provisions.
    • Staff conducts final reviews of plat maps for compliance with the Act.
    • Final plats are authorized for submission to the Register of Deeds for proper recordation.
    “The Office of Land Survey and Remonumentation administers the applicable provisions of the Land Division Act, 1967 PA 288 in order to ensure the orderly development of subdivisions in the State of Michigan. Staff conducts final reviews of plat maps to ensure compliance with the Act and authorizes final plats to be submitted to the Register of Deeds for proper recordation.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivision plat review and recordation in Michigan.
      “The Office of Land Survey and Remonumentation administers the applicable provisions of the Land Division Act, 1967 PA 288 in order to ensure the orderly development of subdivisions in the State of Michigan. Staff conducts final reviews of plat maps to ensure compliance with the Act and authorizes final plats to be submitted to the Register of Deeds for proper recordation.”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Alteration or occupation of the 100-year floodplain of a Michigan river, stream, or drain regulated under Part 31.

    • The Part 31 permit requirement applies to rivers, streams, or drains with a drainage area of 2 square miles or greater.
    • A Part 31 EGLE permit is not required for alterations within floodplains of the Great Lakes, inland lakes, or watercourses with drainage areas less than 2 square miles, although other NREPA reviews may still be necessary.
    • Construction and fill may be permitted in non-floodway portions if local ordinances and building standards are met and compensating excavation is provided equal to the volume of fill placed in the floodplain.
    • New residential construction is specifically prohibited in the floodway.
    • The minimum residential elevation standard is one foot above the 100-year flood elevation, and some communities or counties may impose a higher standard.

    Minimum drainage area for Part 31 floodplain authority: >= 2 square miles (Part 31 does not apply below this threshold) · Lowest-floor elevation: >= 1 foot above 100-year flood elevation (Some communities and counties may require a higher elevation)

    “The Floodplain Regulatory Authority deals with the floodplains of rivers, streams, or drains which have a drainage area that is 2 square miles or greater. A permit is not required from EGLE, under Part 31, for alterations within the floodplains of the Great Lakes, inland lakes, or watercourses which have a drainage area less than 2 square miles.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Alteration or occupation of the 100-year floodplain of a river, stream, or drain in Alger County where the regulated drainage-area threshold applies.
      “The State of Michigan's Floodplain Regulatory Authority, found in Part 31, Water Resources Protection, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA), 1994 PA 451, as amended, requires that a permit be obtained prior to any alteration or occupation of the 100-year floodplain of a river, stream or drain.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Tiny houses, including tiny houses built on wheels, proposed as resort cabins or similar occupancy in Michigan.

    • The source distinguishes tiny houses from recreational units and states they cannot be treated as recreational units even if built on wheels.
    • The tiny house must be built as a resort rather than a campground.
    • Local health department permitting for wells, septic tanks, and drainfields is required as applicable.
    • Local zoning, building, electrical, and plumbing permits and final approvals are required under local authorities.
    • The source does not establish statewide zoning permission or a statewide right to occupy a tiny house.
    “Local zoning, building, electrical, plumbing permits and final approvals under local authorities.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — RV occupancy as part of a Michigan campground consisting of five or more recreational units used for temporary living quarters.
      “requires a campground license when five or more recreational units (i.e., tents, campers, RVs) are placed on a parcel or tract of land”
    • Limited — Temporary camping in a Michigan temporary campground.
      “A temporary campground license issued by the local health department (LHD) having jurisdiction is required prior to operating a temporary campground.”
    • Limited — Occupancy of RVs and other recreational units as temporary living quarters in a Michigan campground offering sites to the public or members of an organization, where 5 or more recreational units are involved.
      “A campground owner shall ensure that a site is occupied by not more than 8 persons and by not more than 1 recreational unit.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Michigan counties serving as building-code enforcing agencies for residential construction in unincorporated areas, subject to the Statewide Jurisdiction List and local/state jurisdiction assignments.

    • Before construction, a written building-permit application must be submitted to the appropriate enforcing agency.
    • A permit is also required when use or occupancy changes.
    • Ordinary repairs do not require a permit, but the stated structural, egress, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and public-health/safety limitations apply.
    • The Michigan Building Code and Michigan Residential Code govern construction; county enforcement applies only where the Statewide Jurisdiction List designates county jurisdiction.
    “If COUNTY is indicated, that unit of government receives code enforcement services from a county enforcing agency.”

Inside cities and towns in Alger County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Single- and two-family dwellings in Burt Township, excluding recreational structures.

    • The 600-square-foot measurement excludes unfinished basements, garages, porches, and breezeways.
    • The cited Burt ordinance is revised July 13, 2015; confirm with the township whether a later operative ordinance supersedes it.

    minimum floor area: >= 600 square feet (exclusive of unfinished basements, garages, porches and breezeways)

    “Every single/two family dwelling, excluding recreational structures, shall have a floor area of not less than six-hundred (600) square feet, exclusive of unfinished basements, garages, porches and breezeways.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Lots and development within Au Train Township, Alger County, under the Au Train Township Zoning Ordinance.

    • The applicable minimum depends on the zoning district.
    • The ordinance provides exceptions and special rules for nonconforming lots and waterfront development.
    • The ordinance states that its revised version is effective September 12, 2022.

    R1/R2 minimum lot size: 15000 square feet · RR1/R2R minimum lot size: 2.5 acres · TD minimum lot size: 15000 square feet · LS/R1 minimum lot size: 40000 square feet · LS/R2 minimum lot size: 40000 square feet · T/RP minimum lot size: 5 acres · C minimum lot size: 20000 square feet · M minimum lot size: 20000 square feet

    “R1/R21 15,000 square feet 100 30 10 (A) 10 50 RR1/R2R2 2-½ acres 165 30 10 10 50 TD 15,000 square feet 100 30 10 10 50 LS/R1 40,000 square feet 150 30/50 10 25 50 LS/R2 40,000 square feet 150 30/50 10 25 50 T/RP 5 acres 330 30 25 25 50 C 20 20,000 square feet 100 30 10 10 50 M 20,000 square feet 100 30 10 10 50”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Lots in Au Train Township zoning districts.
      “R1/R21 15,000 square feet 100 30 10 (A) 10 50 RR1/R2R2 2-½ acres 165 30 10 10 50 TD 15,000 square feet 100 30 10 10 50 LS/R1 40,000 square feet 150 30/50 10 25 50 LS/R2 40,000 square feet 150 30/50 10 25 50 T/RP 5 acres 330 30 25 25 50 C 20 20,000 square feet 100 30 10 10 50 M 20,000 square feet 100 30 10 10 50”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings in Rock River Township zoning districts RR-1, RR-5, TD, RP-10, LI, and HI.

    • Where a parcel abuts a water body, structures must be set back 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark.
    • The front setback is measured from the road right-of-way, or, without direct road access, from where the recorded easement abuts the parcel.
    • All structures on lots abutting a body of water must maintain a 75-foot setback from the ordinary high-water mark.
    • Accessory buildings cannot be located within the minimum front yard setback.
    • The ordinance was last revised January 28, 2019 and becomes effective 30 days after publication of the adoption notice.

    RR-1 front setback: 30 feet · RR-1 side setback: 10 feet · RR-1 rear setback: 15 feet · RR-5 front setback: 30 feet · RR-5 side setback: 15 feet · RR-5 rear setback: 30 feet · TD front setback: 30 feet · TD side setback: 15 feet · TD rear setback: 10 feet · RP-10 front setback: 30 feet · RP-10 side setback: 20 feet · RP-10 rear setback: 30 feet · LI front setback: 30 feet · LI side setback: 30 feet · LI rear setback: 30 feet · HI front setback: 30 feet · HI side setback: 30 feet · HI rear setback: 30 feet · waterfront setback: >= 75 feet from OHWM

    “RR-1 1 acre 50 feet 30 feet 10 feet 15 feet 30 feet RR-5 5 acres 100 feet 30 feet 15 feet 30 feet 30 feet TD 20,000 square feet 50 feet 30 feet 15 feet 10 feet 30 feet RP-10 10 acres 200 feet 30 feet 20 feet 30 feet 30 feet LI 5 acres 300 feet 30 feet 30 feet 30 feet 30 feet HI 10 acres 300 feet 30 feet 30 feet 30 feet 30 feet”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Structures in Au Train Township zoning districts R1/R2, RR1/RR2, TD, LS/R1, LS/R2, T/RP, C, and M.
      “R1/R21 15,000 square feet 100 30 10 (A) 10 50 RR1/R2R2 2-½ acres 165 30 10 10 50 [...] For lots abutting Lake Superior, the setback for structures shall be a minimum of fifty (50) feet from the Ordinary High-Water Mark (OHWM).”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Use of a recreational vehicle as a dwelling unit on a lot in the City of Munising.

    • The RV must have valid state license/registration.
    • In H-1 and H-2 districts, use without a principal building is limited to 120 total calendar days.
    • In other applicable districts, use without a principal building is limited to 30 total days and no more than twice within a five-year span.
    • One RV is allowed per lot.
    • The RV must meet principal-structure setbacks.
    • Users must register with the Zoning Administrator.
    • The vehicle and telephone number must be visibly placed on the vehicle.

    H-1/H-2 maximum occupancy: <= 120 total calendar days · other-district maximum occupancy: <= 30 total days (No more than twice within a five-year span) · RV count: <= 1 per lot

    “A recreational vehicle, having a valid state license/registration, may be used on a lot without a principal building for dwelling purposes for a period not exceeding 30 total days and not more than twice within a five-year span.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy of recreational vehicles at locations in Au Train Township.
      “A recreational vehicle cannot be occupied for longer than 180 days at any township location other than an approved campground.”
    • Limited — Occupancy of recreational vehicles at locations in Au Train Township, except approved campgrounds.
      “A recreational vehicle cannot be occupied for longer than 180 days at any township location other than an approved campground. Campgrounds are subject to the following conditions and limitations: 1. A campground shall be located on a continuous parcel of land not less than ten (10) acres in size. 2. A campground shall establish a permanent natural buffer strip of at least 50 feet. Development within the buffer strip shall be prohibited.”
    • Limited — Recreational vehicle occupancy in Burt Township's Inland Buffer Zone.
      “If a recreational vehicle or mobile home is occupied on a site for more than fourteen (14) days in any one year, it must meet all the requirements for a residential dwelling, including a permanent foundation and the same water and sewage disposal requirements of those residential dwellings constructed on site. A recreational vehicle or mobile home may be occupied in the Inland Buffer Zone (IBZ) for a period of fourteen (14) days or less in any one year without meeting the requirements of a residential dwelling.”
    • Limited — Recreational vehicle dwelling use and storage in Munising Township.
      “A recreational vehicle having a valid state license/registration may be used on a lot without a principal building for dwelling purposes for a period not to exceed 120 consecutive calendar days. Persons using a recreational vehicle for such use must register with the Zoning Administrator.”
  • Accessory dwellingsAllowed (with conditions)

    Accessory dwelling units on residentially zoned lots in the City of Munising.

    • An ADU is a smaller secondary home on the same lot as a primary dwelling, with total square footage between 200 and 600 square feet.
    • One ADU is permitted per residentially zoned lot.
    • The applicant must demonstrate compliance with the section's development and design standards and applicable building and fire-safety codes.
    • Occupancy and use standards are the same as those for the primary dwelling.
    • An ADU may be no more than 600 square feet or the size of the primary dwelling, whichever is less.
    • Existing required parking for the primary dwelling must be maintained or replaced on-site.

    ADU size: 200-600 square feet (Final maximum is 600 square feet or the size of the primary dwelling, whichever is less) · ADU count: 1 per residentially zoned lot

    “An ADU may be added to a house on any residentially zoned lot. One ADU is permitted per residentially zoned lot.”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In Michigan, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Alger County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your township or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Lot coverage
  • Building height
  • Camping on your land
  • Tiny homes
  • Manufactured homes
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Alger County, Michigan

Is Alger County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Alger County scores 87/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 3,865 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost.

Do you need a building permit in Alger County, Michigan?

Alger County generally requires a residential building permit, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by LMAS District Health Department (Luce-Mackinac-Alger-Schoolcraft). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Alger County, Michigan?

Land in Alger County runs about $2,348 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Alger County?

Alger County gets about 35" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.2% of years.

How remote is Alger County?

A representative private-land location has about 3,865 people within a 30-minute drive and 135,826 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Alger compares in Michigan

Compare side-by-side →See all 83 Michigan counties ranked →