How Flint Handles Public Conduct: A Practical Guide

Flint maintains 100 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with public conduct. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Flint falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Loud Party Ordinance

Loud parties in Flint are reached by Chapter 31 Article II (noise), Section 31-12 of the City Code (Disorderly Conduct and Disorderly Persons), and MCL 750.167 (the Michigan disorderly persons statute). Penalties stack: the local Section 31-78 noise fine (up to $1,500 / 90 days), the Section 31-12 disorderly conduct violation, and state-court charges under MCL 750.167.

Key details: Local Noise Charge: Chapter 31 Section 31-72(a) + Sec. 31-78. Local Disorderly: Flint Code Section 31-12. State Disorderly Persons: MCL 750.167 (90-day misdemeanor). Underage Alcohol Furnishing: MCL 436.1701 (up to $1,000/$2,500). Civil Social-Host Liability: Longstreth v. Gensel (423 Mich. 675, 1985).

Chapter 31 Section 31-78: up to $1,500 fine, 90 days, or both. Flint Section 31-12 disorderly conduct: misdemeanor under city general penalty. MCL 750.167 disorderly persons: 90-day misdemeanor, fine up to $500. MCL 436.1701 furnishing alcohol to a minor: misdemeanor, up to $1,000 first offense ($2,500 second). Civil social-host liability under Longstreth v. Gensel theory: compensatory damages.

Outdoor Smoking Restrictions

Smoking in Flint is governed by the Dr. Ron Davis Smoke-Free Air Act (MCL 333.12601 et seq.), which prohibits smoking in most enclosed workplaces and public places statewide. The City can restrict smoking on City property; Michigan school grounds are smoke-free under MCL 380.1300.

Key details: State Act: MCL 333.12601+ (Dr. Ron Davis Law). Enforcement: Genesee County Health + MDHHS. Schools Smoke-Free: MCL 380.1300. Tobacco 21: MCL 722.641 (PA 18 of 2019). City Property: Local rules allowed.

Smoke-Free Air Act violations bring civil fines under MCL 333.12613 — $100 for a first individual violation, escalating for repeat offenses, and up to $500 per day for establishments that fail to post signs or enforce. Genesee County Health Department investigates; 67th District Court hears citations.

The Bottom Line

Flint's public conduct rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Flint is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Flint's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.