Michigan § 70.11 - Authorized razing of buildings; damages; determination by jury.
Full text of Michigan Michigan Compiled Laws § 70.11 — Authorized razing of buildings; damages; determination by jury., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 70.11. Authorized razing of buildings; damages; determination by jury.
The chief in charge of the department at any fire, with the concurrence of the president or any 2 trustees, may cause any building to be pulled down or destroyed to arrest the progress of the fire.
If a building is so pulled down or destroyed, a person having an interest in the building may present a claim for damages to the council of the village. The council shall pay the claimant damages as may be just under all the circumstances, taking into consideration whether or not such loss would probably have occurred to the building even if it had not been pulled down or destroyed, and whether the building was insured or not.
If the council and the claimant are not able to agree upon the amount of damages to be paid, then the amount of damages shall be ascertained by the appraisal of a jury to be selected in the same manner as in cases of a jury to appraise damages for taking private property for public use. The jury may visit the premises and may hear all the proofs in the case, and shall allow the claimant the amount of damages as they may consider proper under the standard set forth in subsection (2).
If the jury is not able to agree, a new jury shall be empaneled as provided in subsection (3) until a jury is obtained that does agree.
The council shall pay such claimant the amount of damages fixed by a jury under subsection (3) or (4).
Source: official Michigan text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan § 70.11
What does Michigan Compiled Laws § 70.11 cover?
Section 70.11 ("Authorized razing of buildings; damages; determination by jury.") 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 § 70.11?
A common citation format is "Michigan Compiled Laws § 70.11" (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 § 70.11 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.