(UNDATED)- Owners of Great Lakes waterfront property in Michigan still need a federal permit for shoreline maintenance activities, even though the state no longer requires one.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says it will continue regulating leveling and grooming of sandy or vegetated areas between the water's edge and the ordinary high water mark.
The corps says people who have gotten authorization for sand grooming and leveling under a previous regional permit don't have to apply again. Those who do need a permit can apply online from the Detroit district office.
The corps says it usually takes a couple of weeks to issue a permit.
Beach maintenance regulation is intended to protect the coastal environment, particularly fish habitat.
Governor Rick Snyder signed a bill this month ending Michigan's permitting program
