A complete list of all programs within the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
Community involvement and public participation are an essential part of EGLE’s mission, vision, and values.
Resources and information on utilizing RRD's data exchange and the Inventory of Facilities.
An interactive map displaying contaminated sites throughout Michigan regulated under Parts 213, 201, and 211.
This system allows water well drilling and pump installation contractors to submit water well records.
EGLE's interactive calendar is designed to provide timely information on decisions before the Director, proposed settlements of contested cases, administrative rules promulgation, public hearings, meetings and comment deadlines, and environmental conferences, workshops and training programs.
The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides all persons (except persons incarcerated in correctional facilities) with access to public records of public bodies. Requests to inspect or receive public records from EGLE must be in writing and describe the requested records with enough detail to enable the department to identify and locate the requested records. Some records are exempt from disclosure under the FOIA or another statute and thus will not be provided. A fee may be charged to process your request. Please note that many records are available that do not require a formal FOIA request.
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Cannabis cultivation and processing are expanding as hemp and marijuana products are being legalized across the country. Construction, installation, growing, and processing of cannabis is regulated through the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy's (EGLE) water, waste, and air regulations. The marijuana industry is obligated to know and abide by the environmental regulations that apply to them.
Noncompliance with environmental regulations may lead to violations or other escalated enforcement actions. EGLE has created several guidance documents to aid in the understanding of these regulations, how to be in compliance, and where to go for help.
Other federal, state, and local regulations or programs may apply. It is the responsibility of the licensee to comply with all applicable regulations.
These documents are intended specifically for growers and processors of marijuana. The Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) is the lead agency for recreational and medical marijuana. More information can be found on the CRA webpage.
Overall Guidance
Environmental Compliance for Growers and Processors of Marijuana
A brief overview of potential regulations as well as links to helpful forms and documents. See links below for more specific information.
Cannabis and the Environment - FAQ (Printable)
This contains frequently asked questions about implementing environmental regulations in this industry.
Marijuana Production and Processing Operations - Environmental Regulations and Concerns
Local Leaders webinar recorded 3/26/2019 (68 minutes) - Recording temporarily unavailable
Water Use, Disposal, and Wetlands Guidance
Protecting Water Resources when Growing and Processing Marijuana
This guidance document covers most state programs designed to protect water quality.
Materials Management / Waste Guidance
Solid and Hazardous Waste Regulations
This guidance document covers most state programs related to waste regulations.
Composting Marijuana Waste Website
Air Permitting and Emissions Guidance
Protecting Air Quality When Growing and Processing Marijuana
This guidance document covers most state programs related to air quality regulations.
Calculating Air Emissions from Processing Operations
Air permits are required prior to construction or installation of any processing equipment. If you have already installed and are operating your equipment, you may still need an air permit. This guidance will walk you through calculating your emissions and next steps for a permit application.
Although the hemp and marijuana industries are similar, these guidance documents are intended specifically for growers and processors of industrial hemp. The Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development is the lead agency for industrial hemp and more information on this industry can be found on the industrial hemp webpage.
Protecting of Water Resources when Growing and Processing Hemp
This guidance document covers most state programs designed to protect water quality.
Solid and Hazardous Waste Regulations
This guidance document covers most state programs related to waste regulations.
Protecting Air Quality When Growing and Processing Hemp
This guidance document covers most state programs related to air quality regulations.
Environmental Sustainability in the Cannabis Industry: Impacts, Best Management Practices, and Policy Considerations
October 2020 – A nation-wide group of experts, including staff from EGLE’s Air Quality Division, worked to research and publish a technical report on “Environmental Sustainability in the Cannabis Industry: Impacts, Best Management Practices, and Policy Considerations.” The report contains information on environmental impacts including land use and soil health, water, energy, air quality, and waste; and is a keystone to the legal cannabis marketplace.
MI Environment Article - Environmental Impacts of the Marijuana Industry
This article was published on April 17, 2019, and is an overview of the potential environmental impacts of the marijuana industry.
White Paper: The Environmental Impacts of the Marijuana Industry
This document was finalized on September 17, 2018, by EGLE's Marijuana Workgroup, prior to marijuana being legalized recreationally in Michigan. The workgroup consists of staff from multiple EGLE divisions and is changed with evaluating the environmental impacts of the marijuana industry, creating outreach and guidance for growers and processors and working with the Marijuana Regulatory Agency housed in the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
For general questions, please contact us at EGLE-Assist@Michigan.gov or 800-662-9278.
For small businesses, the Clean Air Assistance Program is also available for assistance.
