Ann Arbor, MI
Rules, permits & lead paint in Ann Arbor
Historic District Commission review, federal lead-safe rules and Michigan licensing.
Historic districts, lead paint and Michigan licensing
Historic District Commission
Ann Arbor has fifteen local historic districts, and exterior work in them is reviewed by the Historic District Commission or by city staff on its behalf. The city’s guidance says paint color is typically not regulated, but changes such as replacing windows, siding or trim need a Certificate of Appropriateness. Contact preservation staff before any exterior project in a district.
Lead-safe work
Michigan is not among the states running their own EPA renovation program, so the federal RRP rule applies. Firms disturbing paint in homes built before 1978 must be EPA-certified and use a certified renovator.
State licensing
Painting is not one of the trades on Michigan’s Maintenance and Alteration contractor license list, so there is no state painting license to check. Ask for proof of insurance and EPA certification instead.
Permits
Paint by itself does not normally need a building permit. Rot repair, siding or window replacement found during prep may, so check with the city.
Rentals
Landlords should plan lead-safe work and turnover dates together, since older units near campus often predate 1978.
This is general orientation, not legal advice. Confirm with the agency named before work starts.
Ann Arbor painting questions
Does the historic commission control my paint color?
The city’s guidance says paint color is typically not regulated, but contact preservation staff before exterior work in a district.
When is the busiest time?
Late summer, when many campus-area leases turn over and exteriors are still in season.
Do painters need a state license in Michigan?
Painting is not on the state’s Maintenance and Alteration license list. Ask for insurance and EPA lead-safe certification.
Can porch floors be painted in fall?
On dry, mild days in early fall, yes. Later in the year, cold nights limit curing.
Can a property manager send several units?
Yes. List the addresses, unit count and turnover dates.
How many painters will contact me?
Best Price is shared with up to 5 painters, Fastest Start goes to 3–5 and Top Quality usually goes to 2.
Describe your project
Free for homeowners, no obligation. Choose Best Price (shared with up to 5 painters), Fastest Start (3–5) or Top Quality (usually 2).
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