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Residents push back on Port Austin zoning ordinances proposal to limiting private use of trailers, tents, and motor homes — fueling concerns over property rights and tourism.
Port Austin Proposal to Limit Private Use of RVs and Tents Faces Local Backlash
PORT AUSTIN, Mich. — Two proposed ordinances restricting the use of tents, motor homes, and trailer coaches in the Village of Port Austin are generating strong pushback from residents ahead of the April 9 Village Council meeting. The changes, outlined in zoning amendments set to repeal and replace longstanding local ordinances, would ban overnight campers and tents on private residential property unless in licensed parks or camps.
The proposed changes are part of a broader move by the Village Council to update zoning language and enforcement mechanisms. However, critics say the new rules would strip property owners of the right to host family or guests on their land, damage the town’s seasonal tourism economy, and disproportionately affect lower-income and multi-generational families.
Zoning Ordinance Proposals Would Prohibit Private Overnight Use
The first Port Austin zoning ordinance amendment targets Article IV, Section 417 of the Port Austin zoning code. It states that:
“Tents, travel trailers, motor homes, or recreation vehicles may not be used as temporary or permanent dwelling units except in duly licensed or government operated parks or camps.”
The second measure repeals and replaces Ordinance No. 31, which governs trailer coach parking. The new language prohibits any trailer coach from being used as a temporary or permanent residence — even when parked in a driveway on private property — unless it is located in a closed structure like a garage.
Both ordinances cite enforcement authority and include penalties as Grade C (Level 3) civil infractions, with each day of violation counted separately.
Residents Say Port Austin Zoning Proposal Goes Too Far, Citing Rights and Tradition
The proposed Port Austin zoning restrictions have sparked fierce discussion online. In more than 150 public comments shared on social media, Port Austin residents expressed frustration and disbelief.
Anita, a long-time homeowner, voiced a common concern: “I live in a two-bedroom slab with a large backyard. I bought this house for the property for my children. Now you wanna tell me they can’t come to camp out in their own backyard?”
Others worried about broader impacts. Kevin warned that the move could discourage family visits and reduce tourism. “They think if we don’t use campers, we’ll stay in hotels. WRONG. We just won’t come to Port Austin.”
A few commenters, such as Jennifer, posted detailed critiques. Her post pointed to six major issues, including the loss of affordable housing options, overreach on property rights, harm to tourism, unfair penalties, and a failure to accommodate responsible owners.
A Trend Among Small Muncipalties – Limiting Owner Rights
Nearby Lake Township, which borders Port Austin to the west, has already banned short-term rentals, further tightening visitor access along the Lake Huron shoreline. The restriction has reduced the availability of overnight accommodations in the region, placing more pressure on private property owners to host family and guests during the busy summer. Residents fear that Port Austin’s proposed ban on tents and campers could compound the issue, discouraging tourism and limiting economic activity for local businesses that depend on seasonal traffic.
Park Township implemented a ban on short-term rentals in residential zones, leading to legal challenges from homeowners. In November 2022, the township enforced this ban, prompting a lawsuit from a neighborhood group. However, in November 2023, a judge dismissed the lawsuit, allowing the township to maintain its prohibition on short-term rentals in these areas. ?The Holland Sentinel
New Buffalo enforced a ban on short-term rentals, leading to legal disputes. Homeowners argued that the city violated their constitutional rights by prohibiting rentals of properties purchased before the ordinance’s enactment. The case was brought before the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, highlighting tensions between municipal regulations and property owners’ rights. ?Courthouse News
Legal Observers Say Ordinance Could Raise Property Rights Concerns
Port Austin zoning and ordinance laws in Michigan allow local governments to regulate land use to promote public welfare, but they must balance these rules with constitutional protections such as due process and private property rights. Broad prohibitions on residential use of campers or tents — especially on private property — have faced legal challenges in other parts of the state and country when not carefully justified.
The Michigan Municipal League emphasizes that zoning ordinances should be based on a comprehensive plan and must not be unduly restrictive or arbitrary. They highlight the importance of balancing various, often competing, interests of property owners and residents, ensuring that regulations serve a clear public purpose without infringing on individual rights. ?Michigan Municipal League
Legal precedents also underscore the necessity for zoning regulations to be reasonable and not infringe upon constitutional rights. While specific Michigan cases directly addressing the prohibition of tents or trailers on private property are limited, general principles from zoning law suggest that municipalities must exercise caution. Ordinances that are overly broad or lack clear justification may be vulnerable to legal challenges, especially if they are perceived to infringe upon property owners’ rights without substantial public benefit.?
Furthermore, the Citizens Research Council of Michigan has discussed the importance of local governments considering the broader implications of housing regulations. They advocate for policies that do not unduly restrict housing options and that consider the diverse needs of the community. Overly restrictive zoning can limit affordable housing opportunities and may not align to promote diverse and inclusive communities. ?Citizens Research Council of Michigan
Village Defends Ordinance as Orderly Development Tool
Village officials have not publicly commented on the Port Austin zoning proposals ahead of the April 9 meeting. The language of the ordinances suggests that the intent is to reduce clutter, prevent long-term dwelling in vehicles, and maintain neighborhood aesthetics.
The proposed repeal of Ordinance No. 31, dating back to 1994, could reflect a desire to modernize and simplify regulation. However, opponents argue that such changes need deeper public engagement.
Community Mobilization Ahead of April 9 Vote
Calls for civic engagement are growing. Local commenter Shawn urged others to attend the April 9 meeting. “Be there,” he wrote in response to several concerned posts. Some have even begun organizing a petition to vote out council members.
Online, speculation has also emerged that the ordinance could benefit commercial interests, such as newly opened or planned campgrounds. “Maybe the new campground has an issue with it,” posted Tina.
Meanwhile, Patrick accused the council of catering to wealthier residents and called for new leadership: “More and more of our rights are being taken away by the rich elite around here.”
Tourism-Focused Town Risks Economic Fallout Over Ordinance
Port Austin, located at the tip of Michigan’s Thumb region, relies heavily on summer tourism. Families frequently bring campers, boats, or tents for weekend getaways. Several commenters warned that restricting affordable accommodations could hurt local businesses already struggling with seasonal traffic.
Susan summed up the concern: “Why wouldn’t they want some families in travel trailers to stop, dine, or shop the farmers market? It would discourage all of those things.”
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