Wayne County does not impose breed-specific legislation. Detroit lifted its pit bull restrictions years ago. Michigan MCL 287.321 regulates dangerous dogs by behavior, not breed.
Wayne County and the state of Michigan do not enforce breed-specific legislation (BSL). Michigan MCL 287.321 defines a dangerous dog based on bite history and aggressive behavior rather than breed. Detroit repealed older restrictions on pit bulls and similar breeds, now treating all dogs equally under its animal control ordinance. Dearborn, Livonia, Westland, Taylor, and unincorporated townships similarly lack BSL. A dog declared dangerous under state law must be muzzled and leashed in public, confined in a secure enclosure at home, and the owner must carry liability insurance of at least 50,000 dollars. Landlords and homeowner insurance carriers in Wayne County may still impose private breed restrictions on Rottweilers, Dobermans, pit bulls, and other breeds regardless of local law. Hamtramck and Highland Park, which are surrounded by Detroit, also follow the behavior-based model.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Wayne County, MI
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See how Wayne County's breed restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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