Michigan Blight Statute Authorizes Local Enforcement

MCL 117.4q empowers home rule cities to adopt ordinances declaring buildings blighted and to impose civil infraction fines and tax liens for violations. The statute defines blight to include vacant dwellings, fire-damaged buildings, structures with broken windows, missing siding, and properties cited as nuisances. The Michigan Housing Law (MCL 125.401) sets minimum housing standards statewide. The Land Bank Fast Track Act (MCL 124.751) allows tax-foreclosed blighted property transfers. While specific blight definitions are local, the enforcement framework, lien authority, and appeal process are governed by state law.

Civil infractions up to $10,000 under local ordinances; tax liens; potential demolition costs charged to property tax bills.