Did You Know that Michigan Requires a ‘Dance Permit’ For Bars

Over the weekend, I had lunch with some friends that I have known for most of my life.

As we were talking about the area we were from, I discovered something about Michigan bars and restaurants that I had never heard of before.

👇PSA: Please Stop Doing These Things at Michigan Bars👇

It all started because were were talking about a bar in the area where I grew up that I had completely forgotten about.

The bar went up for sale in recent years, and one of my friends informed the table that the bar/restaurant was being sold as-is, with most of the equipment still inside and with its liquor license. But the next thing he said had me scratching my head.

It also comes with a dance permit.

Um... what?

Dance Permits for Michigan Bars and Restaurants

I'm at the age where I have been legal to step foot into these establishments for more than half of my life (though most bars up in the area of the U.P that I'm from allow minors in if they're accompanied by adults during certain hours.)

I just assumed that if a bar had a dance floor and people chose to dance, it was just that. But, it turns out that establishments actually have to have a dance permit in order for that to happen.

READ MORE: Michigan's Most Historic Bar Was Once a Brothel

But it turns out that isn't the case. And it's all part of the Michigan Liquor Control Code.

An on-premises licensee shall not allow dancing by customers on the licensed premises unless the licensee has applied for and been granted a dance permit by the commission. - Michigan Liquor Control Code

It's important to note (because the code clearly spells it out that,

Issuance of a dance permit under this subsection does not allow topless activity on the licensed premises. - Michigan Liquor Control Code

 

There are also ordinances about the dance floors themselves. Michigan Administrative Code Section R 436.1415 states that patrons are only allowed to dance on a dance floor that is at least 100 square feet. There also can not be any tables, chairs, etc. on the dance floor.

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Can I Dance at a Michigan Bar That Doesn't Have a Dance Permit?

I mean, probably? If your favorite song comes on TouchTunes and you want to sway back and forth to the beat, I don't think that anyone is going to stop you. But, if you start full-on twerking in the middle of a sports bar, you may be asked to leave...