If you operate a farm that’s open to the public, your visitors may enter numerous spaces on your property. These spaces include retail areas, parking lots, restrooms, event spaces, animal petting barns, playgrounds, food and beverage stations, and more. If the public will be entering any of these areas, there are specific regulations that apply. Some regulations apply to every farm in Michigan; others are required as determined by your township and zoning ordinance.

Also, when opening your farm up to the public, you will need to comply with the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) across your public facilities and areas. This may mean creating accessible routes over uneven ground or installing a ramp.

It is important to note that some buildings and areas on the farm may be “off limits” to the public and you need to determine which buildings and areas fall into that category and to mark them with signage accordingly.

Related Modules. This module outlines the compliance regulations for specific public areas commonly found on agritourism farms. Below are other regulatory and operational modules found in this toolkit that you may want to review also, especially if they apply to your operations. Some discuss additional compliance regulations such as licensing and permits, and safety protocols.

Business Basics – Insurance and Liability
Regulations – Right to Farm Act and GAAMPs
Regulations – Food Safety Modernization Act  – Coming Soon
Regulations – Accessibility on the Farm – Coming Soon
Regulations – Municipal Planning and Zoning
Regulations – Building Construction Code  – Coming Soon
Regulations – GAAMPs: Animal Care – Coming Soon
Regulations – Preparing for Emergencies – Coming Soon
Regulations – GAAMPs: Farm Market and Other Regulations
Retail – various modules – Coming soon

Basically, if the public will be entering a building on your farm, it is no longer considered a farm building used solely for agricultural purposes. Instead, it is considered a commercial building, which falls under a different set of regulations, including building code requirements, fire safety codes, ADA compliance, etc. Outdoor areas that the public visit, like u-pick orchards and event spaces also need to be in compliance with local zoning ordinances and safety regulations.

Consider the following areas on your farm to determine which regulations apply to you.

Retail Areas
Your farm market or retail area is likely one of the most frequently visited location on the farm, as customers shop for produce and purchase items at the check-out counter. These buildings fall under the Mercantile classification (Group M|), which requires a building permit and must meet standard building codes, electrical code requirements, fire safety regulations, heating/cooling/ventilation requirements, and ADA/accessibility guidelines. Meet with your local building department or code enforcement officer to go over the requirements.

Also, depending on the items you will be selling in your market (or when you attend a farmers market), there may be additional food sales and safety requirements. Please see our modules (listed above) for specific compliance requirements including licensing and permits, and the modules in our Retail section. If you sell alcohol, you will need to apply for a permit through the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.

Determining your Requirements for Retail Areas
For each area below, ask yourself the questions and reach out to the regulatory authority to determine the steps you need to take to be in compliance.

Zoning / permitted use
Do local zoning regulations allow for this type of land use?
Review your local zoning ordinance and meet with zoning administrator.

Building code / occupancy classification
Do you have a building permit for Group M (Mercantile) occupancy?

• Any structure built for retail trade falls under Group M and requires a building permit.
• Review Module 61: Michigan’s Building Construction Code.

Electrical requirements / inspection
Has the market passed an electrical inspection and have you received a permit?

• Seasonal stands under 400 square feet do not require electric power. Permanent retail markets must meet the Michigan Electric Code (MEC and plumbing code requirements.
• Contact your local municipality’s electrical inspector.

Fire code and required inspections
Has a fire safety inspection been completed?

• Schedule an inspection with your local fire marshal.

Emergency exits and signage
Are there emergency exits and clear signage for these exits?

• Schedule an inspection with your local fire marshal.

Fire extinguishers / fire suppression, where required
Do you have fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems?

• Schedule an inspection with your local fire marshal. Note: fire suppression systems require an annual certification.

ADA/accessibility
Are the entrances, aisles, pathways, checkout / service counter and parking lot areas accessible?

• Retail markets are considered places of public accommodation. Please visit https://www.ada.gov/topics/title-iii for specific requirements.
• Also, a helpful article: https://extension.psu.edu/creating-an-inclusive-agritourism-experience

Heating/cooling/ventilation requirements
Does the building have sufficient heating, cooling, and ventilation?

• Contact your local municipality or county building department to determine what’s required.

Signage requirements
Do you have necessary permits for highway signage?

• Sign permits are issued by cities, villages and charter townships. Check with your local municipality.
  MDOT regulates signage along highways and state rights of way

Food sales and safety regulations
Are you in compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act, food establishment licenses, food handling requirements, health department inspections and product specific regulations?

• Please see Module 41 Farm Market GAAMPs and Other Regulations for the specific requirements for compliance. (ADD LINK) and Module 12 Food Safety Modernization Act

Alcohol sales, If applicable
Do you have a liquor license/permit? Have you met local requirements for alcohol sales?

• Apply for a permit through the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.
• Also, be sure to check with your local township regarding other regulations which may be required for alcohol sales and consumption on the farm.

Parking Areas
The parking lot is most likely the first place that your customers will enter on your property. It’s important to maintain suitable parking area for your visitors and that meets the surface requirements allowable per the Farm Market GAAMPs and the setbacks required in your local zoning ordinance. There may also be drainage/stormwater considerations, emergency vehicle access and lighting requirements, ADA/accessibility compliance for safe entry and pathways, and signage needs for smooth traffic flow. Review your zoning ordinance and meet with your zoning administrator to confirm the requirements.

If your driveway connects to a state highway, you will also need to get a right of way permit from MDOT to ensure safe traffic flow and sight distance.

Determining your Requirements for Parking Areas
For each area below, ask yourself the questions and reach out to the regulatory authority to determine the steps you need to take to be in compliance.

Zoning requirements
Does your parking area comply with local zoning regulations?

• Review your local zoning ordinance and meet with zoning administrator.

Required setbacks
Does your parking lot meet required setbacks from the property line or road?

• Review your local zoning ordinance and meet with zoning administrator.

Surface material /grade requirements
Does the parking area meet the surface/grade requirements as noted in the Farm Market GAAMPs?

• Review the Farm Market GAAMPs and your local zoning ordinance.

Drainage/stormwater considerations
Have you addressed drainage/stormwater concerns in the parking area?

• Contact your local municipality or drain commissioner.

Required number of parking spaces
Do you have the adequate number of parking spaces for your guests?

• There is no statewide mandate but review your local zoning ordinance to see if there are any specific requirements.

ADA/accessibility
Do you have ADA accessible parking spaces? Van-accessible spaces?
Is there an accessible route from parking to public entrance?

• Consult an accessibility/ADA professional or local building official when designing or modifying facilities. Public accommodations must provide reasonable accessibility and accommodations under applicable federal and Michigan law.
• Visit https://www.ada.gov for information.

Lighting
Does the parking lot have sufficient lighting for the various times of day that it will be used?

• Review your local zoning ordinance and meet with zoning administrator.

Fire lane / emergency vehicle access
Do you have a fire lane where a fire truck can park and reach the market in the event of an emergency?

• Meet with local fire department official.

Parking for buses/large groups, if applicable
If you have large groups coming onto the farm, is there room for them to park?

• There is no statewide mandate on how much parking space is required for large groups. Review your local zoning ordinance to see if there are any specific requirements.

Signage and traffic flow
Do you have clear signage directing traffic where to park, where to enter and exit?

• While not mandated, on high traffic days, you will need this.

Overflow traffic
Do you have a plan for where cars park when the parking area is full? At what point do you need to close the farm due to being over capacity?

• While it may seem like a good problem to have, once it happens to you and you are unprepared, it is a very difficult problem. Make a plan for this.

Event Spaces
Hosting events on the farm is a great way to generate more revenue for your operation and to provide fun experiences for your visitors. Before hosting an event on your farm, confirm that your local zoning ordinance allows this type of land use on your property. In many cases, a special land use permit will be required and there may be other requirements, such as limits on the number of guests, hours of operation and lighting and noise levels, or permits for temporary structures or tents.

Depending on whether the event is indoors or outdoors, different regulations may apply. In both cases, you will need a fire safety inspection to determine occupancy limits, ensure there is a fire lane for emergency vehicles, emergency exits and pathways for the safe exit of visitors. For outdoor events, you should also develop safety procedures for inclement weather, such as severe thunderstorms and tornados. It’s also important to have ADA/accessible entrances and exits, suitable restrooms for the number of guests, sufficient parking and a plan for traffic flow. It’s essential that your insurance policy covers events on the farm.

Review your zoning ordinance, meet with your zoning administrator, local fire marshal, health department and insurance agent.

Determining your Requirements for Event Spaces – Inside and Outside
For each area below, ask yourself the questions and reach out to the regulatory authority to determine the steps you need to take to be in compliance.

Zoning / special-event requirements
Do local zoning regulations allow for this type of land use?
Do you have a special land use permit, if required?

• Are you in compliance with all other local zoning requirements pertaining to events?
  Review your local zoning ordinance and meet with zoning administrator.
• Read Module 35: Municipal Planning and Zoning Regulations to understand the zoning process and why you may need a special land use permit.

Occupancy/load limits
Are you in compliance with occupancy limits for indoor spaces and/or outdoor event areas?

• Meet with local fire department officials.

Building / fire inspection
Has a building and event space been inspected and approved by the local fire department?

• Meet with local fire department officials.

Tent permits and fire requirements
Do you have the required permits for the use of tents during your events? Has the tent been inspected by the local fire department?

• Review local zoning ordinance and meet with zoning administrator.
• Also meet with local fire department officials.

Emergency exits/egress
Do you have emergency exits and safe, unobstructed paths (egress) to safety.

• Meet with local fire department officials.

Fire lanes and emergency vehicle access
Do you have a fire lane where a fire truck can park and reach the event area in the event of an emergency?

• Meet with local fire department officials.

Temporary structures /stages
Do you have permits for temporary event structures, such as stages, etc.?

• Review local zoning ordinance and meet with zoning administrator

Restroom requirements
Do you have the required number and type of restrooms for the number of expected guests?

• Check with local health department and local zoning administrator. Local code may dictate the number of toilets per estimated peak visitor capacity.

ADA/accessibility
Is the event area ADA accessible for guests with disabilities?

• Consult an accessibility/ADA professional or local building official when designing or modifying facilities. Public accommodations must provide reasonable accessibility and accommodations under applicable federal and Michigan law.
• Visit https://www.ada.gov for information on making your event accessible.

Parking / traffic management
Do you have a traffic management plan for guest parking, traffic flow as guests leave the event?

• Develop a traffic management plan, but review your special use permit, as local zoning officials often regulate parking/traffic flow within the permit.
• Local road commissions regulate driveways that connect with the public right of way.
• Local police can sometimes provide traffic control on public roads during events

Alcohol licensing/permits
Do you have a liquor license/permit? Have you met local requirements for alcohol sales?

• You can apply for a permit through the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.
• Also, be sure to check with your local township regarding other regulations which may be required for your specific event.

Noise/lighting restrictions
Are you in compliance with local noise and lighting restrictions during your events?

• Review local zoning ordinance and your special use permit. Meet with your zoning administrator if you need clarification on what’s allowed.

Event insurance requirements
Does your insurance policy cover events? If not, be sure to obtain coverage prior to hosting events.

• Read Module 10: Insurance and Liability.
• Meet with your insurance agent.

Security / first aid / emergency plan requirements
Do you have an Emergency Plan, including security, first aid response, severe weather event and/or active shooter plans?

• Read Module 65: Risk Management and Safety.

Animal Petting Areas
If you invite the public to enter animal barns or to view and pet animals that are in fenced areas, there are a number of regulations you need to follow to ensure the safety of your visitors and animals. First and foremost, you should meet with your veterinarian to determine which animals are suitable for public contact at your farm. You will need secure fencing and gates to keep animals separate from the public, to install handwashing stations and to post signage with safety rules for interacting with animals. You’ll also need to develop cleaning protocols, staff training procedures and an emergency plan in place and a reporting process for any incidents. Be sure to meet with your insurance agent to make sure you have insurance coverage for the activities you offer, as animals are unpredictable and injuries may occur.

Determining your Requirements for Animal Petting Barns / Animal Areas
For each area below, ask yourself the questions and reach out to the regulatory authority to determine the steps you need to take to be in compliance.

Public access vs. restricted animal areas
What activities are you allowing the public to do with animals? Petting is different from feeding, entering pens, holding animals, bottle feeding, pony rides, etc.

Be aware that each different type of interaction can create a different risk/regulatory/ insurance question.

If the public has access to the animals, you need to take even more precautions for the safety of your animals and your guests.

• Contact your local health department to discuss the types of animal/public interactions you plan to offer and any public heath requirements.
• Work with your veterinarian to establish which animals are appropriate for public interaction and under what conditions.
• Meet with your insurance agent to determine the type of insurance you need and other risk management strategies, and that your insurance policy cover the specific activities

Fencing / barriers and gate requirements
Do you have the required fencing/barriers and gates to ensure the safety of your animals and guests?

• Review animal areas for secure fencing, gates and barriers that protect both people and animals.
• Contact your local building/zoning official if you are constructing or significantly modifying fencing, gates, structures or public areas.
• Consult your veterinarian about species-specific containment and animal welfare needs.

Signage
Do you have clear, visible signage that lists the rules for guest to follow when interacting with your animals, as well as signage noting areas that are “off limits” to the public?

• Develop clear signs for animal-contact rules, handwashing, feeding restrictions, age restrictions and “staff only/off limits” areas.
• Contact your local health department for public-health guidance on animal-contact signage. MDARD also provides animal-exhibit handwashing signs that can be used as a resource. (Michigan Supplemental Resources – at bottom of page.)

Handwashing stations
Do you have handwashing stations located near the animal petting areas?

• Contact your local health department for guidance on appropriate placement and setup.
• Provide accessible handwashing with running water and soap near animal-contact areas.
• Michigan’s animal exhibition requirements specifically address access to hand-cleansing facilities near buildings housing animals. (Michigan Resources for Fairs and Exhibitions.)

ADA / Accessible pathways and viewing areas
Are the pathways to the animals areas, as well as the animals viewing areas assessable for guests with disabilities?

• Review pathways, gates, viewing areas and animal-contact areas for accessibility.
• Consult an accessibility/ADA professional or local building official when designing or modifying facilities. Public accommodations must provide reasonable accessibility and accommodations under applicable federal and Michigan law. (Michigan Accessibility Information)

Animal-to-public separation
Are the animals kept safely from the public?
Are animals areas separate from public dining and play areas?

• Establish appropriate separation between animals and visitors based on species and activity.
• Consult your veterinarian regarding safe animal/public interaction.
• Contact your local health department for zoonotic-disease and public-health concerns.
• Keep animal areas separated from food service/dining areas as required by applicable food-safety rules. (Michigan)

Staff supervision
Do you have sufficient staff to supervise animal petting areas to ensure the safety of your animals and guests?

• Determine staffing levels based on the number of visitors, animals, activities and layout. Create written supervision expectations and assign staff to monitor animal-contact areas.
• Contact your insurance agent for recommendations regarding supervision and risk management.

Animal handling protocols
Do you have clear protocols for public interaction with your animals? Do you have staff present to ensure protocols are followed?

• Establish written protocols for petting, feeding, holding, bottle feeding, entering pens, pony rides and other interactions.
• Work with your veterinarian and maintain a VCPR (Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship) so animal health and appropriate public-contact practices can be addressed.
• Contact your local health department for zoonotic-disease/public-health questions.

Emergency procedures
Do you have a clear plan for emergencies, such as an animal bite? Have you trained your staff, so they know the proper procedures?

• Create written procedures for bites, scratches, kicks, falls, allergic reactions and other injuries.
• Contact your local health department for guidance regarding animal bites and potential disease exposure. For a bite/exposure, follow your local health department’s reporting and evaluation procedures; Michigan directs animal-bite reporting to the local health department. (Michigan Rabies Information.)
• Call 911 for a medical emergency.

Animal escape / incident procedures
Do you have a plan for animals that get out of their pen or escape? Have you trained your staff, so they know what to do?

• Develop an animal-escape plan that includes securing the public, containing the animal and notifying appropriate staff.
• Work with your veterinarian on animal-specific emergency procedures.
• For reportable animal diseases or animal-health concerns, contact MDARD Animal Industry Division at 800-292-3939. (Michigan Reportable Diseases.)

Requirements for children entering animal pens
Do you have a clear policy for children entering animal pens?

• If children are allowed in animal pens, they should be supervised at all times by staff member. Family members are not a sufficient substitute for a trained staff member.
• Establish an age, supervision and staff-to-child policy for any animal area that visitors can enter.
• Contact your local health department and insurance agent before allowing children into animal pens. If children are allowed into pens, establish trained staff supervision and clear rules for animal interaction.

Insurance requirements for public animal interaction
Do you have an insurance policy that covers public animal interaction?

• Contact your insurance agent before opening the area or adding a new activity. Specifically identify all activities – petting, feeding, entering pens, holding, bottle feeding, pony rides, etc. – and confirm that each is covered. Ask about recommended risk management practices and documentation.

Slip /fall and surface requirements
Is your walkway made of a slip-resistant material?

• Inspect surfaces regularly for mud, manure, water, uneven ground and other hazards. Use slip-resistant surfaces where appropriate and establish a cleaning/inspection schedule.
• Contact your local building official when constructing or substantially modifying public walkways or floors.

Cleaning/sanitation procedures
Do you have proper cleaning/sanitation procedures for animals pens and areas that the public touches?

• Develop written cleaning and disinfection procedures for animal-contact surfaces, pens, gates, equipment and high-touch areas.
• Consult your veterinarian regarding animal-safe disinfectants and cleaning practices.
• Contact your local health department for public-health guidance. MDARD provides guidance on cleaning/disinfection and animal-associated waste for animal exhibitions. (Michigan Resources for Animal Exhibitions)

Required staff training / supervision
Have you developed training manuals and procedures for all new staff? Do you have periodic refreshers for staff? Do you supervise your staff to ensure they are following policies?

• Create written training procedures covering animal handling, handwashing, sanitation, emergency response, animal escapes, visitor safety and reporting. Provide initial and periodic refresher training. Keep documentation of training.
• Ask your insurance agent whether specific training or documentation is recommended or required by your policy.

Emergency access for EMS / fire
Do you have a fire lane where a fire truck can park and reach the animal areas quickly in the event of an emergency?

• Contact your local fire department/fire marshal to review emergency vehicle access, fire lanes, gates and access to animal areas.
• Contact the local building official if new structures or access routes are being constructed. Maintain clear access for EMS and fire response.

Capacity limits for enclosed animal areas
Have you developed capacity limits for enclosed animal areas?

• Establish occupancy/capacity limits based on the size and layout of the area, animal numbers, visitor flow and emergency access.
• Contact your local fire marshal and building official to determine whether an occupancy load or other capacity requirement applies. Post the capacity where appropriate.

Animal health / veterinary relationship
Do you have an established relationship with a licensed veterinarian who regularly provides care for your animals?
Do you have protocols for animal illness, injury, vaccination, isolation and determining when an animal should be removed from public contact?

• Establish a relationship with a Michigan-licensed veterinarian and maintain a VCPR. Work with your veterinarian to develop routine animal-health, vaccination, parasite-control, isolation and public-contact protocols.
• Contact MDARD regarding reportable animal diseases, animal movement requirements or other state animal-health questions. MDARD identifies animal health, disease reporting and animal movement as areas it regulates and works with veterinarians and animal owners on.

Playgrounds
Playgrounds that are located on Michigan farms are not required to have an inspection by the State of Michigan, but they must meet local zoning laws, which may require an inspection by a local township official. It’s important to check with your township to determine any applicable safety standards, including materials, protective surfacing, fencing, location, spacing, signage, capacity use restrictions and maintenance.

For the safety of your visitors, (and your own peace of mind) you may also want to comply with the 2025 Edition of the Consumer Product Safety Commissions Handbook on Public Playground Safety and to have a playground inspection by a Certified Playground Safety. Inspector. Be sure to meet with your insurance agent to ensure that the playground is covered by your policy.

Determining your Requirements for Playgrounds
For each area below, ask yourself the questions and reach out to the regulatory authority to determine the steps you need to take to be in compliance.

Insurance carrier requirements
Do you have insurance coverage that covers playgrounds?

• Meet with your insurance agent. Ask: “What must we do for this playground to be covered under our policy?” This may be just as important as the regulatory requirements.
• Also read Module 10: Insurance and Liability.

Applicable playground safety standards, including materials, protective surfacing, fencing, location, spacing, signage, capacity use restrictions, maintenance, etc.
Does your playground comply with the 2025 Edition of the Consumer Product Safety Commissions Handbook on Public Playground Safety?
Can you document compliance?

• Read the 2025 Consumer Product Safety Commissions Handbook on Public Playground Safety.
• Schedule an inspection by a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI). A list of CPSI’s in Michigan can be found on the MDARD website.

Risk Management Protocols
Do you have Risk Management Protocols in place?

• Read Module 65: Risk Management and Safety for tips for reducing your risk.

Restrooms
Restrooms are necessary for any public venue, and per Michigan’s Plumbing Code, your local municipality will determine the number you need based on your building’s occupancy classification, such as mercantile or assembly and square footage. Your local zoning ordinance, health department and municipality may also have requirements for permanent vs. portable restrooms, handwashing stations, plumbing, sewer and ventilation requirements. Water tests must be done to ensure potable water from your onsite well or if you are renting portable stations. These are required by the local health department and MDARD. You also need to ensure that restrooms meet ADA requirements.

Determining your Requirements for Restrooms
For each area below, ask yourself the questions and reach out to the regulatory authority to determine the steps you need to take to be in compliance.

Required number of restrooms based on occupancy
Do you have the sufficient number of restrooms for your guests?

• • Contact your local municipal building department. The number is calculated based on using your building’s occupancy classification (such as mercantile or assembly) and square footage.

Permanent vs. portable restroom requirements
Do you need permanent or portable restrooms? What are the requirements for my farm?

• • Review the local zoning ordinance to determine restrooms requirements.

ADA-accessible restroom requirements
Are your restrooms ADA-accessible for visitors with disabilities?

• • Visit https://www.ada.gov for information on making your restrooms accessible.

Accessible route to restrooms
Is the pathway to the restrooms for guests with disabilities?

• • Visit https://www.ada.gov for information on ensuring paths to restrooms are accessible.

Handwashing facilities
Do you have a handwashing station within or near restrooms? Does it have potable tested water?

• • Contact your local health department for water tests.

Plumbing/sewer requirements
Have plumbing/sewer requirements been met?

• • Contact your local municipality.

Ventilation
Are restrooms properly ventilated?

• • Contact your local municipality.

Cleaning/maintenance
Are restrooms cleaned and maintained on a regular basis? Is staff trained to follow proper cleaning protocols?

• • Contact your local health department.

Location relative to public areas
Are restrooms located close to public areas?

• • Contact your local municipality.

Portable restroom placement/accessibility
Are portable restrooms placed in a location per local guidelines? Are they accessible for visitors with disabilities? Are they available for U-Pick customers?

• • Contact your local municipality and MDARD Produce safety inspectors.

Requirements for special events
Are additional requirements during special events?

• • Contact your local municipality.

Food/Beverage Stations
If you have food/beverage stations and seating areas at your farm, these should be accessible for visitors with disabilities, and you also need restrooms.

For information regarding regulations for food prep areas and food safety regulations, please see Module 12: Food Safety Modernization Act and MDARD’s Food Establishment Licensing Details, FAQ and Step-by-Step Guide for information about licenses you may need. Or contact MDARD at 800-292-3939.

Determining your Requirements for Food/Beverage Sales
For each area below, ask yourself the questions and reach out to the regulatory authority to determine the steps you need to take to be in compliance.

Food / Beverage Sales Regulations
Are you in compliance with food and beverage SALES regulations?

• If you are selling food and beverages on the farm, there are specific food safety regulations you need to be aware of and follow.
• Please see Module 41: Farm Market GAAMPs and Other Regulations for detailed information on those requirements.
• Also see MDARD’s Food Establishment Licensing Details, FAQ and Step-by-Step Guide for information about licenses you may need. Or contact MDARD at 800-292-3939.

Accessible seating/service areas
Do you have seating and services areas for guests with disabilities?

• Visit https://www.ada.gov for information on making your restrooms accessible.

Other Areas
As you look at your overall farm operation, there are likely other areas that may not fit into the above categories, yet still need to be addressed, including site lighting, pedestrian pathways, trip/fall hazards, guardrails/handrails, stairs/ramps, generators, stormwater drainage, snow/ice management, trash/recycling management, security, and first aid areas. See the Other Areas section of the On Farm Regulations for Public Spaces Checklist (ADD Link) for more information.

Determining your Requirements for General Site / Public Space Requirements
For each area below, ask yourself the questions and reach out to the regulatory authority to determine the steps you need to take to be in compliance.

General ADA accessibility
Are your public spaces in compliance with ADA requirements?

• Visit https://www.ada.gov for information on making your public spaces accessible.

Emergency access/fire lanes
Are there fire lanes for emergency vehicles to easily access your property and public spaces?

• Meet with local fire department official.

Site lighting
Do you have sufficient lighting in your public spaces?

• Review your local zoning ordinance and meet with zoning administrator.

Signage
Do you have sufficient signage in public spaces on the farm? Does your signage meet local ordinances?

• Sign permits are issued by cities, villages and charter townships. Check with your local municipality.

Pedestrian pathways
Are pedestrian pathways safe for visitors and do they meet ADA requirements?

• Check with your local municipality and visit https://www.ada.gov for information.

Trip/fall hazards
Have you addressed any trip hazards in the public spaces on your farm?

• Meet with your insurance agent and schedule a walk-through of your farm and follow their recommendations.

Guardrails/handrails
Do you have guardrails and handrails where needed?

• Meet with your insurance agent and schedule a walk-through of your farm and follow their recommendations.

Stairs/ramps
Are any stairs or ramps safe for your visitors?

• Meet with your insurance agent and schedule a walk-through of your farm and follow their recommendations.

Electrical/outdoor electrical
Has an electrical inspection been done of your public spaces?

• Contact your local municipality’s electrical inspector.

Generators
Have generators been approved for use in specific areas on your farm?

• Contact your local municipality’s electrical inspector.

Temporary structures
Do you have permits for temporary structures on the farm?

• Review your local zoning ordinance and meet with zoning administrator.

Stormwater/drainage
How do you handle stormwater and drainage?

• Contact your local drain commissioner.

Snow/ice management
Do you have a plan for managing snow and ice in areas where the public will be on your farm?

• Make a plan to provide clear access for emergency vehicles and public rights of way. Talk with your insurance agent on best practices to prevent snow/ice related injuries.

Trash/recycling areas
Do you have a plan for trash and recycling in public areas on the farm?

• Contact your local municipality regarding any specific rules and also review the Michigan Waste Regulations.

Fencing and gates
Are you putting up new fencing or modifying fencing in public area?

• Contact your local building/zoning official if you are constructing or significantly modifying fencing, gates, structures or public areas.

Security
Do you have a plan to address security concerns on the farm?

• Talk with your insurance agent to determine if there are specific security measures that are recommended or required, such as security cameras, etc.

First aid/AED locations
Do you have a specific area where you can handle first aid on the farm?

Incident documentation
Do you have protocols in place for documenting any incidents or accidents on the farm?

• Meet with your insurance agent for recommendations and requirements. Also, see Module 65: Risk Management and Safety.

Insurance requirements
Do you have sufficient insurance for the buildings, public spaces and activities on your farm?

• Meet with your insurance agent to determine the type of insurance you need and other risk management strategies, and that your insurance policy covers the specific activities.

Required inspections and inspection records
Are there required inspections for your public spaces on the farm?

• Meet with your insurance agent.

When you operate a farm that’s open to the public, certain regulations apply for the areas on the farm where the public will be. Parking lots, animal barns, retail spaces, event areas, and any public space on the farm must meet those requirements and may require permits. Familiarize yourself with your local zoning ordinance and the Farm Market GAAMPs, so you know what’s required up front. It’s important to work with your township’s zoning officials, health department, and insurance agent to determine the requirements for your specific business.

Who To Call List
With so many different areas on the farm and so many different requirements, it is often hard to know where to begin or who to call with questions. Here is a basic list of categories to get you started. Be sure to add the names and phone numbers for relevant contacts to your Emergency/Business Contact List.

• Local Building/Zoning Official: structures, walkways, fencing, gates, accessibility-related construction and local ordinances
• Local Fire Department / Fire Marshal: emergency access, fire lanes, occupancy/capacity and fire-safety concerns.
• Local Health Department: human health, zoonotic disease, animal-contact concerns, animal bites, sanitation/public-health questions
• MDARD Animal Industry Division: animal health, reportable diseases, animal movement, exhibitions and state animal regulations
• Farm Veterinarian / VCPR: animal health, vaccinations, disease prevention, animal suitability for public contact, treatment/isolation protocols
• Insurance Agent: coverage for the actual activities being offered and risk-management requirements
• 911: immediate human emergency
• Local Animal Control / appropriate agency: loose animals or situations involving wildlife/stray animals, depending on the circumstance

Getting Started in Agritourism
https://ccetompkins.org/resources/getting-started-in-agritourism
An article from Cornell Cooperative Extension on the importance of complying with regulations and maintaining areas for visitors on the farm, such as parking, restrooms, accessible and general areas.

Keeping agritourism safe this fall
https://www.farmforum.net/story/news/2025/09/19/keeping-agritourism-safe-this-fall/86165011007/
Whether you’re planning an interactive petting zoo or a morning of animals sprinkled into a yoga practice, this article has helpful protocols for animal interaction.

Regulations for On-Farm Public Spaces Checklist
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This checklist was developed by the Michigan Agritourism Association to help you quickly find regulatory requirements for many public space areas. Please see (and bookmark!) our checklist in its entirety, where you can access the topics, questions, and Michigan regulations covered in this module at a glance.

The Americans with Disabilities Act
https://www.ada.gov
U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Disability Rights Section
ADA INFORMATION LINE: 800-514-0301 / 1-833-610-1264 (TTY)

Certified Playground Safety Inspectors
https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/early-childhood-education/cclb/provider-resources/inspections/playground-inspections/inspectors
A list of inspectors in Michigan who can confirm compliance with the Public Playground Safety Handbook guidelines.

Farm Market GAAMPs (Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices)
https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/environment/rtf/gaamps#current-gaamps
We recommend you start with the list of current GAAMPs, as these change each year, so you don’t review one that may be outdated.

Find a Township
https://michigantownships.org/find-a%20township/
This resource will help you find a map or contact information for any township in Michigan. Data available on each township include elected officials, address and contact information, MTA survey and U.S. Census data. Information on elected officials is updated daily. Contact your local planning department to learn about state zoning codes that address things such as buildings, new construction, and signage.

Integrating Safety into Agritourism Checklists
The checklists below are from the Integrating Safety into Agritourism website at www.safeagritourism.org. These checklists are designed to be used to help you identify hazards on your own farm and operational protocols. Topics include:

• Emergency Prep and Plan
• Traffic & Parking
• Handwashing & Restrooms
• Barriers & Fences
• Walkways, Surfaces & Structures
• Corn Mazes
• Food Safety
• Hayride Safety
• Play Areas
• Petting Zoo
• Large Animals
• Farmers’ Markets
• Water & Attractive Nuisances
• Inflatable Rides

Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Michigan Right to Farm Act and GAAMPS webpage
https://www.michigan.gov/en/mdard/environment/rtf 
You may want to bookmark this key landing page to quickly access the Right to Farm Act and GAAMPs, especially since the GAAMPs are reviewed for updates annually.

Michigan Department of Transportation
https://www.michigan.gov/mdot/travel/safety/road-users/road-signs/advertising-signs
Information on advertising signage along Michigan highways and state roads. These programs are administered for MDOT by a private firm:

Michigan Logos, Inc
Mike Kovalchick, general manager
Michigan Logos, Inc.
517-337-2267 or 888-645-6467

Michigan Liquor Control Commission
https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/lcc
For License, Permit, Special License, and License Renewal questions:
LARA-MLCC-Licensing-Information@michigan.gov

Public Playground Safety Handbook
https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/325_PublicPlaygroundSafetyHandbook2025_7-30-25_1.pdf?VersionId=tpCoaKp.DSdJ0QmD4_29kwEHeQgFphM2
This handbook presents safety information and guidelines from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for public playground equipment. It is intended for those who purchase, install, and maintain public playground equipment. Some states and local jurisdictions may require compliance with this handbook and/or ASTM voluntary standards.