Black Girls Do Bike contacted us about new permitting requirements for any bike group that rides on Belle Isle — even for group rides they didn’t start on the island. We felt these were impractical and burdensome, so we worked with the DNR and Belle Isle Conservancy to arrive at the more reasonable requirements outlined below. Most club rides won’t require a permit.
Belle Isle Permitting Requirements
Q. Does my group run or ride event need a DNR permit to be on Belle Isle?
A. Maybe!
For events starting or ending on Belle Isle, you need a permit when…
- People must pay or donate to participate
- There are 20 or more people
For all events, even those not starting on the island, you need a permit when…
- Natural resources or facilities are impacted beyond normal recreational use
- Traffic pattern alteration is required (i.e. closing travel lanes)
- Directional signage will be placed for the event
- DNR oversight is required
- The use of park facilities is not consistent with current rules (i.e. riding in an area not designated for bikes)
In some cases, the park may waive a permit requirement after reviewing your permit application.
Note that these rules aren’t unique to Belle Isle. They’re mostly the same for all state parks, including Milliken State Park.
To get a permit, or if you are still unsure if one is required, email DNR-BelleIsleParkEvents@michigan.gov