Sec. 51503b.
(1) Prescribed burning does not constitute a public or private nuisance when conducted in compliance with this part, part 55, and rules promulgated to implement this part or part 55.
(2) Subject to subsections (3) and (4), a property owner or his or her agent conducting prescribed burning is not liable for damage or injury caused by the fire or resulting smoke.
(3) Subsections (1) and (2) apply to a prescribed burn only if all of the following requirements are met:
(a) The landowner or his or her designee has specifically consented to the prescribed burn.
(b) The requirements of section 51503 are met.
(c) There are adequate firebreaks at the burn site and sufficient personnel and firefighting equipment for the control of the fire.
(d) A certified prescribed burn manager is present on site with a copy of the prescription, from ignition of the prescribed burn to its completion.
(e) The damage or injury does not result from the fire escaping the boundary of the area authorized in the permit under section 51503.
(f) The property owner or his or her agent is not grossly negligent.
(4) Subsection (2) does not affect liability for injury to or death of a person engaged in the prescribed burning.
History: Add. 2004, Act 529, Imd. Eff. Jan. 3, 2005 Popular Name: Act 451Popular Name: NREPA
Structure Michigan Compiled Laws
Chapter 324 - Natural Resources and Environmental Protection
Act 451 of 1994 - Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (324.101 - 324.90106)
Article III - Natural Resources Management (324.30101...324.83109)
451-1994-III-2 - Chapter 2 Management of Renewable Resources (324.40101...324.53519)
451-1994-III-2-4 - Subchapter 4 Forests (324.50101...324.53519)
451-1994-III-2-4-FOREST-FIRES - Forest Fires (324.51501...324.51906)
Section 324.51501 - Definitions.
Section 324.51502 - Department of Natural Resources; Authority; Appointment of Assistants.
Section 324.51503 - Burning Permits; Conditions.
Section 324.51503b - Prescribed Burning; Liability; Requirements.
Section 324.51504 - Acts Prohibited.
Section 324.51505 - Refuse Disposal Facilities; Devices; Conditions; Rules.
Section 324.51508 - Repealed. 2015, Act 210, Eff. Mar. 14, 2016.
Section 324.51510 - Prohibited Acts; Exception.
Section 324.51511 - Department of Natural Resources Officer, Employee, or Agent; Right of Entry.