Natural resources: wetlands; definition of wetland; update. Amends secs. 30301, 30307 & 30308 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.30301 et seq.).

Added a new definition for 'Exceptional wetland' to identify areas essential for natural resources that require preservation plans.

Modified the definition of 'wetland' to include areas contiguous to the Great Lakes, inland lakes, or ponds, and expanded the list of 'rare and imperiled wetlands' to include 17 specific types.

Added new definitions for 'Altered or degraded wetland', 'Former wetland', 'Net increase in wetland functions and services', and 'Voluntary wetland restoration project' to clarify mitigation and restoration standards.

Modified permit hearing requirements to allow the department to hold hearings within 60 days and clarified that permits are considered approved if the department fails to act within the statutory timeframe.

Modified local government ordinance requirements to ensure consistency with state definitions and established specific timelines for local permit reviews (90 days for local units, 45 days for recommendations).

Added a requirement for local governments to notify property owners when inventory maps are created or amended, informing them that their property may be designated as a wetland.