Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids Water Law Attorneys

Michigan Water Law

In many areas of Michigan, individuals, families, businesses, developers and other commercial entities have access to waterways on their properties. Many often utilize them as part of their daily lives or for their businesses. When this is the case, there are riparian laws and restrictions on how individuals may address the water's location and utilize it for their benefit.

At Willis Law, our experienced lawyers can help you understand your rights as a homeowner or property owner when waterways and lakes are part of your property. We take the time to gather all pertinent documentation that may aid us in resolving your issue or dispute as efficiently as possible. With offices conveniently located in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Paw Paw, Michigan, we work with clients across Michigan to ensure that their riparian rights are protected and the water law issues are thoroughly addressed.

Diverging Water Rights

When it comes to altering the water that is on your property, such as manipulating portions of a river or building a seawall, it is important that certain guidelines and laws are followed. In some instances, disputes arise between property owners as to how the changes are going to affect others whose properties border the water. Diverging water rights can be complicated and require the attention of a skilled attorney, especially if a lawsuit is filed against you or you believe that filing a lawsuit against someone else is the way to seek a resolution.

DNR/DEQ Issues

Many water law issues involve the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). These agencies have a wide range of rules and regulations that must be followed when building seawalls, manipulating portions of a river or other body of water, or other water-related matters. We have experience handling these governmental agencies and have a full understanding of how they go about seeking enforcement of their regulations. We can work with clients to ensure thorough DNR/DEQ compliance as well as represent clients when they have been accused of violating established requirements.

Commercial Water Use

In addition to handling matters for residential property owners, our firm also represents the rights of commercial entities and businesses that use lakes and other waterways as part of their business. Shipping, boating and other businesses rely on the water and must abide by the laws that apply to businesses operating on those waterways.

Contact a Waterfront Property Lawyer Today

We can answer all your questions and make sure you understand your rights. To schedule an appointment regarding your water law matters, contact one of our offices today by calling (888) 461-7744.