Selling firewood in Michigan isn’t as simple as chopping wood and offering it for sale. With the state’s focus on preventing invasive species like the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), strict regulations govern the sourcing, treatment, transportation, and sale of firewood. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to legally and effectively sell firewood in Michigan.
Understanding Michigan’s Firewood Regulations
Heat Treatment Requirements
Firewood must comply with heat treatment standards to prevent the spread of invasive species and diseases. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and the USDA mandate:
- Heat Treatment Schedule T314-c: Heat firewood to 160°F for 75 minutes (to address pests like the Asian Longhorn Beetle).
- Heat Treatment Schedule T314-a: Heat firewood to 140°F for 60 minutes (to prevent pests like the Emerald Ash Borer and Hemlock Woolly Adelgid).
These standards ensure the firewood is pest-free and safe to transport across counties and state lines.
Non-Heat-Treated Firewood
If you’re selling non-heat-treated firewood, it must adhere to these rules:
- Sourced within the same county or within 50 miles of the delivery location.
- Dried (seasoned) for at least one year to reduce moisture content and prevent pests like oak wilt.
- Certified annually with a Statement of Wood Origin to ensure compliance with sourcing guidelines.
Transportation Rules
- All firewood must follow quarantine restrictions under Act 72 of the Public Acts of 1945, including EAB quarantine rules.
- Heat-treated firewood that bears a USDA compliance stamp is exempt from EAB movement restrictions.
Packaging and Selling Firewood in Michigan
Bundled Firewood
Bundled firewood must meet these specifications:
- Size: At least 10″ x 10″ x 16″, with options for larger sizes if pre-approved.
- Content: Bundles must contain at least 60% hardwood, excluding ash, poplar, and hemlock.
Bulk Firewood
Firewood can also be sold in bulk by cords, half cords, or quarter cords:
- Cord Dimensions: 4 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 4 feet high.
- Half Cord: 2 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 4 feet high.
- Quarter Cord: 1 foot long, 2 feet wide, and 4 feet high.
Artificial Firewood
Artificial firewood must be:
- Non-toxic.
- Safe for indoor use and food preparation.
Quarantine and Compliance
Michigan enforces strict quarantine rules to prevent the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer and other invasive species:
- Firewood cannot be transported out of quarantined areas unless it meets USDA heat treatment standards.
- Violations can result in fines or the destruction of firewood at the owner’s expense.
Selling Firewood in State Parks
If you plan to sell firewood at Michigan state parks or recreation areas, you’ll need to adhere to additional requirements.
- All firewood must be dry, pest-free, and certified.
- Bundled firewood must include at least 10 pieces per bundle, with varying sizes.
- Artificial firewood must meet safety and packaging standards.
Fines and Penalties
Violating Michigan’s firewood regulations can lead to severe penalties:
- Fines for transporting uncertified or non-compliant firewood.
- Seizure or destruction of firewood that violates quarantine rules.
Resources for Firewood Sellers
- Michigan Department of Agriculture: Information on heat treatment certification.
- USDA Compliance Guidelines: Details on federal regulations for firewood transport.
- Emerald Ash Borer Quarantine Maps: Verify sourcing and transportation routes.
360 Key Takeaways
- Michigan has strict firewood regulations to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Heat-treated firewood is preferred and often required for transport across county and state lines.
- Sellers must comply with packaging, sourcing, and transportation rules, including annual certifications.
- Non-compliance can result in significant fines or penalties, so understanding the rules is crucial.
For more detail visit: DNR firewood sale specifications
Check the Best Firewood Suppliers in Michigan: Top Picks Near You