There are several current issues and challenges for Michigan’s agri-tourism industry. Some of these issues can be easily resolved while others will continue to present challenges.

Two major obstacles facing agri-tourism operations in Michigan include the non-uniformity of zoning ordinances and local control from one township or municipal government to the next, and, ironically, the uniformity of regulation within a local unit of government, without regard to the seasonality of an agricultural tourism operation or the economic and social benefit of that business to the community. The Michigan Townships Association has identified that 80 percent of the communities in Michigan are rural and embrace the positive economic and quality of life impacts of agri-tourism. The challenge is to encourage the other, mostly urban, 20 percent that development is good but needs to be balanced with green, open or agriculture space. With each local area having its own distinct ordinances that help maintain the unique character of the community, creating a overarching, one-size-fits-all zoning ordinance for agri-tourism is impossible. Priorities differ within each township and municipality.

Local zoning ordinances regarding the selling of development rights is also an issue, because of the restrictions placed on lands covered by the development rights.

The cost of liability insurance is a huge burden on agricultural tourism enterprises, especially those that feature animal exhibits like petting zoos or horse-drawn wagons, or offer haunted trails and other entertainment options. Agri-tourism operators find it hard to find insurance brokers who understand agriculture tourism issues.

Signage issues range from limited affordable signage options on Interstates, a poorly implemented Tourist Oriented Directional Signs (TODS) program for tourism attractions near state highways, tough township zoning ordinances that restrict signs in rural areas, sign clutter in some areas and the high cost of signs.