05/09/2025

Coastal Solutions Compendium

Marinas and Special Waterfront Uses

According to the Department of Natural Resources, there are over 80 harbors and marinas throughout the state of Michigan. Resorts are a common coastal feature in many coastal communities. Both offer valuable recreational and economic benefits, but poor design and management can contribute to coastal erosion, habitat disruption, and diminished water quality.

Why it supports resilience:

Properly planned and maintained marinas and resorts can provide access to and enjoyment of the Great Lakes for many Michigan residents, inspiring a relationship to them and a desire to care for them. Managing this intensity of use with environmental considerations in mind helps prevent resource degradation.

How it is used:

Zoning regulations for marinas, resorts, and working waterfronts can regulate land uses and building placement, in addition to provisions for docks, piers, and lifting devices. Special requirements, such as environmental mitigation measures and natural features protection, may be included as well.

Site standards for special coastal uses should include appropriate setbacks and buffer requirements. Armoring should be carefully considered, limiting it to the extent possible and designing any that is needed to minimize the impact on neighboring properties and the waterbody as a whole.

Possible obstacles to implementation:

• Resilient and environmentally-friendly infrastructure can be costly, particularly for smaller municipalities.
• Maintaining shoreline uses in a way that minimizes shoreline impacts requires ongoing capacity and attention.

Example:

Grosse Ile Township Waterfront Provisions 

Section 285-17: “This ordinance regulates waterfront structures, dredging, and shoreline filling to protect public safety, environmental quality, and recreational use. It sets guidelines for structure placement and size while preventing ecological damage. A permitting process ensures compliance with regulations and public oversight.”

Resources for implementing this tool: 

Sustainable Small Harbors Tools and Tactics Guidebook - Michigan Sea Grant

Redevelopment Ready Communities Waterfront Planning Toolkit and Guidelines - Michigan Economic Development Corporation