Permit Application Service

Permit applications got you down? DRS can help!

Many lakeshore homeowners—and even seasoned contractors—find the permitting process to be a confusing maze of local and state rules. Over the years, we’ve developed strong working relationships with EGLE and with building departments in over 20 lakeshore towns and townships. That experience allows us to now offer stand-alone permit application services* so we can efficiently navigate the complex process on your behalf.  DRS can take on your permitting burden so you can stay focused on what you do best.

*By "stand-alone," we mean that we can apply for permits on your behalf even if DRS isn't doing the project itself. If you're adding onto your home, updating an existing structure, or considering a rock revetment on your shoreline, we can handle your permit process for you.  Contact us today to discuss how we can help.

Permit FAQs

Why do permits matter?  Amid the complexities of permitting, it can be easy to forget that permits exist for good reasons. Ultimately, permits are about protection: your safety, your property investment, and the long-term health of the shoreline we all enjoy.  

What permits are needed for lakeshore work?  Whether a permit is needed (or which permits) depends on many factors, including the type and size of the project, which township has authority, and distance to the water.  Depending on those factors, you may need from 0 to 4 or more permits:  DRS can handle them all.

• State (EGLE) permits help uphold clean-water regulations, manage soil erosion, and ensure that shoreline work doesn’t unintentionally damage the fragile dune system (see this link for specific information about regulated activities in Critical Dune Areas).   EGLE requires permits for beach stairs over 5' wide, retaining walls, sea walls, revetment rocks, and other buildings on lakeshore dunes (including Critical Dune Areas and High Risk Erosion Areas).

• Counties are charged with enforcing the state’s regulations about soil erosion to protect our shared land and water resources.  These Soil Erosion & Sedimentation Control permits (SESC) are required for projects that disturb soil within 500' of a lake, stream, or drain.

• Township or city building & zoning permits ensure that all construction (including beach stairs & decks) meets the State of Michigan’s building code and respects existing property lines. These permits and their associated inspections protect you and your guests from injury and protect your property’s value. 

Which jurisdictions?  DRS primarily serves property owners in Southeast Michigan (Berrien, Van Buren, Allegan, and Ottawa Counties) but we're open to clients from other areas.

How long does it take?  We submit applications within 5 days of receiving the supporting documents. The complexity of the project and the particular jurisdiction affect how quickly the permit is granted (every township has a different set of application processes and rules). 

How much are DRS fees?  Our fee depends on your project's size, complexity, and jurisdiction.  Fees may be structured as flat rates, hourly ($50+/hr), a percentage of permit costs, or a combination. 

What's included in the DRS application service?  

• Navigating complex government rules & procedures.

• Accurate and timely submission of permit application documents.

• Communicating with owners, architects, contractors, state & county agencies, building & zoning departments. 

• Following up with permitting agencies to keep the process moving.

Questions? Give Elisabeth a call at 616.889.5166 or  email her at eli@dunedrs.com