Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program

The Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program (MLAP) was established to assist in the preservation, rehabilitation, and protection of historic lighthouses in Michigan.

Nonprofit organizations and governmental units that own (or are in the process of acquiring) or have long-term leases (minimum of 10 years) on a lighthouse are eligible to apply. Private individuals are not eligible. The light station must be listed in or be eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.

Grant dollars are exclusive to light station rehabilitation and planning projects. Planning projects include Historic Structure Reports, Condition Assessment Reports, plans and specifications, and construction administration services. Rehabilitation projects include bricks and mortar work such as masonry repair, exterior painting, and replacement of missing features. All work must comply with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation.

Completed applications must be received by SHPO in PDF format via e-mail to HigginsS3@michigan.gov no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 21, 2025. The application must include project information, scope of work, budget, work schedule, financial certification, deed/ownership information, photographs, and a resolution authorizing acceptance of the grant.