The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is seeking public input on a new plan to prevent invasive pests and diseases from entering the state through firewood.
The proposed firewood quarantine would limit the movement of firewood brought into Michigan from other states to protect forests, agriculture, and tourism.
The main goal is to reduce the spread of more than 140 pests and diseases, including the Asian longhorned beetle, oak wilt, beech bark disease, and spotted lanternfly. The pests can cause serious damage to trees and crops, and are difficult and costly to eliminate once established.
Currently, firewood from outside Michigan can be moved into the state without strict federal or state rules. The new quarantine would require firewood to be heat-treated or otherwise treated to kill pests, and it would need certification from officials confirming treatment and origin. The plan also includes recordkeeping for at least three years.
The quarantine would cover firewood from outside Michigan.
Some exceptions would include kiln-dried lumber, wood chips smaller than 1 inch, and wood destined for processing at mills or power plants
Locally sourced firewood will not be affected by the quarantine.
MDARD encourages residents and stakeholders to share their opinions through an online survey before the comment deadline on February 9, 2026. After reviewing feedback, the agency will decide whether to proceed with the rules.
To find the survey, search “MDARD Firewood Quarantine” online.
For more information, visit michigan.gov/mdard