Michigan § 388.855a - Applicability of act; exemptions.

Full text of Michigan Michigan Compiled Laws § 388.855a — Applicability of act; exemptions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 388.855a. Applicability of act; exemptions.

Sec. 5a.

(1) Except as provided in this section, this act does not apply to 1-story school buildings, to 1-story additions to school buildings, or to the construction, reconstruction, or remodeling of a school building if the total cost of construction, reconstruction, or remodeling is less than $15,000.00.

(2) Section 1(1)(a) applies to the construction of all school buildings and additions to school buildings regardless of the number of stories of the buildings or additions if the total cost of construction exceeds $15,000.00.

(3) Section 1(1)(d) applies to the construction of all school buildings and additions to school buildings of 1 or more stories regardless of the cost of construction.

(4) This act applies to the reconstruction of a school building destroyed or partially destroyed by fire, windstorm, or other catastrophe if more than 50% of the entire building is destroyed. The bureau of fire services created in section 1b of the fire prevention code, 1941 PA 207, MCL 29.1b, acting jointly with the superintendent of public instruction, may require that the damaged portion or the remaining portion of the building, or both, be remodeled or reconstructed in accordance with this act.

(5) This act applies to the remodeling of existing school buildings and other buildings to be used for school purposes.

(6) An existing building or part of an existing building, regardless of the number of stories or the cost to the school district of the building, that has not been used as a school building shall not be used as a school building unless it is approved by the superintendent of public instruction and the bureau of fire services.

(7) If the construction, reconstruction, or remodeling of a school building costs less than $15,000.00, it is not necessary to employ a registered architect or engineer, but the plans for the building must be submitted to the bureau of fire services and to the superintendent of public instruction or the superintendent's authorized agent for criticism, suggestions, and approval.

(8) A temporary door locking device or system, as described in section 1d, may be installed in any school building or addition to a school building, regardless of the number of stories of the building or addition, or as a component in the construction, reconstruction, or remodeling of a school building or addition to a school building regardless of the costs of that construction, reconstruction, or remodeling.

Source: official Michigan text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan § 388.855a

What does Michigan Compiled Laws § 388.855a cover?

Section 388.855a ("Applicability of act; exemptions.") is part of the Michigan Compiled Laws, the codified statutory law of Michigan. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Michigan § 388.855a?

A common citation format is "Michigan Compiled Laws § 388.855a" (Michigan). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Michigan law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Michigan official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Michigan attorney.

How does Michigan § 388.855a apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Michigan can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Michigan.