Mushroom Foraging In Michigan: What's The Legal Status?

is mushrooms illegal in michigan

As of March 2025, psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms, is a Schedule I controlled substance under Michigan law, making its use, possession, or sale illegal. However, some cities within the state, such as Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Hazel Park, have taken steps toward decriminalization, and advocacy groups are pushing for reform. While the statewide stance on magic mushrooms remains strict, the rules vary across Michigan, and local law enforcement in certain areas has shifted priorities, aiming to reduce the criminalization of individuals using magic mushrooms for personal reasons.

Characteristics Values
Possession and use of magic mushrooms decriminalized in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Hazel Park
Magic mushrooms status under state law Illegal
Magic mushrooms status under federal law Illegal
Magic mushrooms status in Michigan statewide stance Strict
Magic mushrooms classification under Section 333.7212 of the Public Health Code Hazardous substance
Spores from which magic mushrooms grow are Legal
Foraging status in Michigan Legal
Foraging on private land Allowed with permission
Foraging on public land Allowed on almost all public land
Foraging in local parks Allowed if not prohibited
Foraging on roadsides Not allowed without the property owner's permission
Mushroom foraging certification Available through MAMI
Mushroom foraging certification validity 5 years

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Magic mushrooms are illegal in Michigan, but spores are not

As of 2025, magic mushrooms are illegal in Michigan. Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms, is a Schedule I controlled substance under Michigan law. This means that the use, possession, or sale of psilocybin is prohibited and can result in criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. However, it's important to note that there is a growing movement towards decriminalization in the state.

Several cities in Michigan, including Ann Arbor, Detroit, Hazel Park, and Ypsilanti, have taken steps to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms and other entheogenic plants. Decriminalization means that while the substance remains illegal, it becomes the lowest priority for law enforcement, and arrests and prosecutions for possession or use are deprioritized. This does not authorize the commercialization of psilocybin mushrooms, but it does allow for individuals to possess and use them without fear of legal repercussions.

Advocacy groups and organizations like Decriminalize Nature Michigan are leading the efforts towards psychedelic reform in the state. They argue that decriminalization will allow for further research into the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, such as its use in treating depression, addiction, and other mental health disorders. Additionally, decriminalization will redirect law enforcement resources from policing private psychedelic usage to higher priorities, such as violent crimes.

While magic mushrooms remain illegal in Michigan, spores are not explicitly mentioned in the state's legislation. Spores are the reproductive cells of fungi, and while they have the potential to develop into magic mushrooms, they do not contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. Therefore, they are not specifically regulated by the laws prohibiting the possession, use, or sale of psilocybin mushrooms. However, it is important to note that the cultivation and distribution of magic mushrooms, even from spores, may still be prohibited under Michigan law.

In conclusion, while magic mushrooms are illegal in Michigan, spores may fall into a legal grey area. However, it is essential to stay informed about the state's legislation and regulations regarding psychoactive substances, as the legal landscape is evolving rapidly. Those interested in using or cultivating magic mushrooms should consult the most up-to-date information available to ensure compliance with the law and avoid any potential legal repercussions.

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Cities like Ann Arbor and Detroit have decriminalized magic mushrooms

While magic mushrooms remain illegal in Michigan, cities like Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Hazel Park have decriminalized them. In 2020, Ann Arbor's City Council voted to decriminalize psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms. This move marked the city as a leader in Michigan's broader effort toward psychedelic reform. Similarly, Detroit has also joined the growing number of cities and states that have decriminalized entheogenic plants and fungi, commonly known as magic mushrooms. Voters in Detroit, including the city's incumbent mayor, passed Proposal E to decriminalize entheogenic plants and fungi within city limits.

The decriminalization of magic mushrooms in these cities means that local police departments will not prioritize arrests for possession or use, unless linked to another crime. It is important to note that decriminalization does not authorize the commercialization of these substances. Instead, it allows for further research into their potential therapeutic benefits. For example, a synthesized version of the substance found in hallucinogenic mushrooms has shown promise in treating anxiety and depression in cancer patients.

Advocacy groups in Michigan are pushing for reform, and statewide decriminalization efforts are ongoing. The Michigan Decriminalization of Psilocybin Mushrooms and Other Plants and Fungi Initiative aimed to decriminalize the cultivation, possession, and use of psilocybin and other natural plants and mushrooms. While this initiative was not on the ballot in Michigan in 2024, ongoing efforts suggest that Michigan may be the next state to decriminalize entheogenic drugs for medicinal purposes.

The push for decriminalization in Michigan is driven by the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics. Proponents of psilocybin mushrooms cite their potential to help with addictions, depression, and other mental health disorders. However, critics have expressed concerns that fewer penalties may lead to increased drug use and crime. Nonetheless, cities like Ann Arbor and Detroit have taken steps toward decriminalization, reflecting a growing support for change in Michigan.

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The state classifies psilocybin as a hazardous substance

As of March 2025, psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms", is a Schedule I controlled substance under Michigan law. This means that its use, possession, or sale is illegal in the state. According to Section 333.7404 of Michigan's Public Health Code, it is prohibited to knowingly or intentionally use a controlled substance like psilocybin. Violations of this law can result in criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Despite the state-level prohibition, several cities in Michigan have taken steps towards decriminalizing psilocybin and other psychedelic substances. These include Ann Arbor, Detroit, Hazel Park, and Ypsilanti. Decriminalization means that while psilocybin remains illegal, it becomes the lowest law enforcement priority, and arrests and prosecutions for possession or use are deprioritized. For example, in Ypsilanti, a resolution was passed that explicitly prohibited the use of city funds or resources for investigating or prosecuting cases involving entheogenic plants.

Advocacy groups in Michigan are pushing for reform, and a statewide campaign for decriminalization is in the works. The Michigan Decriminalization of Psilocybin Mushrooms and Other Plants and Fungi Initiative aimed to decriminalize the cultivation, possession, and use of psilocybin and other natural plants and mushrooms. While this initiative was not on the ballot in Michigan on November 5, 2024, ongoing efforts by organizations like Decriminalize Nature Michigan continue to advocate for changes in local policies and raise awareness about the therapeutic potential of psychedelics.

The push for decriminalization in Michigan is part of a broader movement for psychedelic reform across the United States. States like Oregon, Colorado, and California have already decriminalized or legalized psilocybin for medical and personal use, and there is growing interest in exploring the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin. However, critics of decriminalization fear that fewer penalties may lead to increased drug use and crime rates.

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There are certification workshops for selling wild-foraged mushrooms

While foraging for mushrooms is generally legal in Michigan, there are specific rules and regulations regarding the practice. For instance, foraging on private land is permitted only if you have permission from the landowner, and it is important to ensure that you are not violating the Endangered Species Act or similar regulations.

When it comes to selling wild-foraged mushrooms in Michigan, there are certain requirements and certifications that must be met. According to Michigan's Food Code, mushroom species picked in the wild for commercial purposes must be individually inspected and deemed safe by a certified mushroom identification expert. To become a certified mushroom identification expert, individuals can participate in certification workshops offered by organizations such as Midwest American Mycological Information (MAMI), the Institute for Sustainable Living, Art & Natural Design (ISLAND), and the Michigan Farmers Market Association (MIFMA).

MAMI, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), offers a comprehensive workshop program that educates participants about Michigan's regulations regarding the sale of wild-foraged mushrooms. The program covers topics such as mushroom biology and identification, ensuring that participants can accurately distinguish between different mushroom species, including safe and unsafe varieties. This knowledge is crucial, as improper identification of wild mushrooms can pose serious health risks.

Upon successful completion of the workshop and a written exam, participants are qualified to receive an Expert Mushroom Identifier Card issued by MDARD. This certification enables individuals to legally sell and broker select wild-foraged mushrooms in Michigan. The cost of the certification is $75, and it is valid for five years. After this period, recertification is required, which involves attending a workshop and passing the exam again.

These certification workshops are designed to ensure that individuals involved in the commercial wild mushroom industry in Michigan have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely identify and handle these fungi. By providing this training, Michigan is promoting the responsible and sustainable utilization of wild mushrooms within the state.

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Advocacy groups are pushing for reform of psilocybin laws

Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms", is a Schedule I controlled substance under Michigan law, making its use, possession, or sale illegal. However, advocacy groups are pushing for reform of psilocybin laws in Michigan, and several cities within the state have already taken steps toward decriminalization.

Ann Arbor, Detroit, Ypsilanti, and Hazel Park are among the Michigan cities that have passed resolutions to deprioritize the enforcement of laws against psychedelic substances, with Hazel Park becoming the third Michigan city to do so in March 2022. These cities have recognized the therapeutic potential of psilocybin and other entheogenic substances in treating mental health disorders and enhancing well-being.

Decriminalize Nature Michigan, a state chapter of the national organization Decriminalize Nature, is one of the leading advocacy groups pushing for reform. They have been successful in lobbying for the decriminalization of entheogenic plants and mushrooms in several Michigan cities, including Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Hazel Park. The group focuses on educating the public and policymakers about the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin and aims to eliminate criminal penalties for personal use and possession.

The Michigan Decriminalization of Psilocybin Mushrooms and Other Plants and Fungi Initiative, sponsored by Decriminalize Nature Michigan and Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP), aimed to decriminalize the cultivation, possession, and use of psilocybin and other natural plants and mushrooms. While this initiative was not on the ballot in Michigan for the November 5, 2024, election, advocacy groups remain hopeful that legislative changes will occur, especially as research into the medical benefits of psilocybin expands in the state.

The future of psilocybin reform in Michigan depends on ongoing research, public opinion, and legislative action. Positive results from clinical trials could influence public opinion and policymakers, potentially leading to shifts in how the state regulates psilocybin. As the movement for psychedelic reform grows across the United States, Michigan may follow in the footsteps of states like Oregon, Colorado, and Washington, which have already decriminalized or legalized psilocybin for medical and personal use.

Frequently asked questions

As of 2025, psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in "magic mushrooms", is illegal in Michigan. However, some cities within the state, including Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Hazel Park, have decriminalized it.

Decriminalization means that while psilocybin remains illegal, it becomes the lowest law enforcement priority, meaning arrests and prosecutions for possession or use are deprioritized.

Several advocacy groups in the state are pushing for reform. In 2022, a new bill appeared on the ballots to legalize the use of psychedelic mushrooms in Michigan. The Michigan Board of State Canvassers approved the petition form for the initiative, clearing the initiative for signature gathering.

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