Genesee County, MI Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- MCL 287.262 (Dog Law of 1919)
- Enforcer
- Genesee County Animal Control
- Leash required
- Dogs may not stray at large
- Exception
- Working dogs actively trained, accompanied
- Contact
- 810-732-1660, Flint
Summary
Genesee County Animal Control enforces Michigan's state leash law: dogs may not run at large. Under MCL 287.262, dogs 6 months or older must be licensed, and unlicensed dogs may not stray unless properly held in leash.
It shall be unlawful for any person to own any dog 6 months old or over, unless the dog is licensed... to allow any dog, except working dogs... while actively engaged in activities for which such dogs are trained, to stray unless held properly in leash.
Full Breakdown
Michigan's Dog Law of 1919 governs leash and running-at-large rules countywide, enforced by Genesee County Animal Control (4351 W. Pasadena Ave., Flint). MCL 287.262 makes it unlawful to let a dog stray unless held properly in leash, with narrow exceptions for working dogs actively engaged in trained activities while accompanied by their owner. Individual cities and townships (Flint, Grand Blanc, Burton, Davison) may add stricter local leash ordinances. Contact Animal Control at 810-732-1660 for complaints about loose or roaming dogs.
Violations & Fines
Running-at-large violations under the Michigan Dog Law can result in impoundment by Animal Control and misdemeanor penalties; loose dogs may be seized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Genesee County require dogs on a leash?
Who do I call about a loose dog?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Genesee County
Compare Genesee County to another location·View the Michigan animal ordinances overview
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