Flint, MI Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Rule
- Dogs may not run at large
- Enforcement
- Police may seize the dog
- First offense
- $25 guilty plea option
- Repeat violation
- Escalating fines or jail time
Summary
The City of Flint bans dogs from running at large, wandering unrestrained on streets, alleys, parks, or private property that isn't the owner's, anywhere within city limits.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation owning, keeping, harboring or having charge of any dog or dogs to suffer or permit such dog or dogs to run at large within the limits of the City of Flint.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2016 Code: Local legislation current through Ordinance 3821, passed 3-1-2012).
Full Breakdown
Flint Code § 9-7 makes it unlawful for any owner, keeper, or harborer to let a dog run at large within city limits. Section 9-8 defines running at large as wandering unrestrained on any street, alley, park, or public place, or on private property other than the owner's. Officers acting for the Chief of Police may seize a loose dog under § 9-9. A first-time violation can be resolved with a $25 guilty plea at the Court Clerk's Office; repeat violations draw escalating fines or jail time under § 9-14.3.
Violations & Fines
Police-directed officers may seize a loose dog on sight; a first offense may be settled with a $25 plea, but repeat violations bring increasing fines or jail time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog be off-leash in my own yard?
What happens if animal control catches my dog loose?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Flint
Compare Flint to another location·View the Michigan animal ordinances overview
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