The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
Rules, laws and enforcement
Rules, laws and enforcement
Laws, rules and regulations surrounding the management of our natural resources, and the conservation officers who enforce them, are are crucial to our success.
In the early days, these officers were charged mainly with enforcing fish and game regulations. Their duties have expanded substantially and now include protection of all natural resources and the environment, as well as the health and safety of the public.
Rules and Regulations
Digests and Guides
The fishing guide and hunting digests offer condensed collections of rules and regulations for your convenience. The Wildlife Conservation Order and Fisheries Orders contain full listings of regulations and legal descriptions, including the boundaries of management units for each species during their regular hunting or fishing seasons.
Recreation Rules & Regulations
County Specific Rules
Know before you go:
Some counties have special rules for hunting and boating, such as where rifles may be used or where motorboats, high-speed boating and water skiing are allowed.
Orders, administrative rules, and legislation
Rules and legislation
- Administrative Rules
- Compiled Laws
- Endangered Species Protection - excerpt from Public Act 451
- Hunter and angler harassment
- Hunting and Fishing Licensing - excerpt from Public Act 451
- Mandatory Penalties for Certain Hunting Violations
- Public Act 451 of 1994 - Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act
- Recreational Trespass - excerpt from Public Act 451
Inside Law Enforcement Division
Information for local law enforcement officials including reporting, grants, laws and forms.