Detroit defers to federal and Michigan migratory bird protections, prohibits removal of active nests of protected species, and treats pigeons and starlings as nuisance birds subject to humane abatement.
Bird protection in Detroit operates under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Michigan Wildlife Conservation Order, both enforced locally with assistance from DACC and Michigan DNR. Active nests of protected species cannot be disturbed during the breeding season without a federal permit, even during demolition or roof work; BSEED requires nest surveys for major facade work on older buildings. Non-native species such as pigeons, English sparrows, and European starlings are exempt and may be controlled humanely. Feeding programs that attract flocks to public spaces are addressed under the Chapter 6 wildlife-feeding nuisance.
Federal MBTA violations carry fines up to $15,000 per bird; local nuisance feeding fines run $100-$500; demolition work disrupting nests can trigger stop-work orders.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Detroit, MI
Detroit's zoning and property maintenance codes do not restrict the number, size, or style of residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays. Re...
Detroit, MI
Detroit has no specific ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays (giant snowmen, pumpkins, Santas). Restrictions, if any, come from priva...
Detroit, MI
Detroit has no citywide ordinance restricting the time of year, brightness, or duration of residential holiday lights. Restrictions arise mainly from Local H...
Detroit, MI
A built-in outdoor kitchen in Detroit requires separate trade permits from BSEED for any gas line, electrical, or plumbing work, plus a building permit if it...
Detroit, MI
Detroit has no ordinance specifically regulating residential offset smokers or pellet grills. The City's nuisance and air-quality provisions (Detroit Code Ch...
Detroit, MI
Detroit follows the International Fire Code (IFC) as adopted by Michigan. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame and charcoal cooking on combustible balcon...
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