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Westland, MI Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Leash required
Beyond owner's fenced yard
Rabies + license tag
Required for animals 4+ months
Enforcement
Animal control officer, appearance tickets
Codified
Code 1981, § 6-13

Summary

Westland requires dogs to be licensed, rabies-vaccinated, and leashed anytime they leave the owner's fenced property, under City Code § 18-11(1).

It shall be unlawful for any person to: (1)Have in his possession any animal four months old or over unless such animal has been immunized against rabies in a manner approved by the board of health of the county and unless such animal has been licensed and the license tag is attached to a collar around the animal's neck at all times. No person owning or having an animal in his possession shall permit such animal to go beyond the fenced premises of such person unless such animal is held properly on a leash.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 66).

Full Breakdown

Westland Code § 18-11(1) makes it unlawful for anyone to let an animal in their possession go beyond their fenced premises unless it is held properly on a leash. The same subsection requires animals four months and older to carry current rabies vaccination and a city license tag on the collar at all times. The animal control officer enforces the chapter and may issue appearance tickets under MCL 764.9c.

Violations & Fines

Letting an animal off-leash beyond fenced premises violates § 18-11(1); the animal control officer may impound the animal, and owners owe citation and shelter/impound fees under Chapter 18.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a leash in my own yard in Westland?
No, § 18-11(1) only requires a leash once the animal leaves your fenced premises.
What happens if my dog is caught off-leash in Westland?
It can be impounded by the animal control officer, and you'll owe impound and boarding fees before release.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Westland

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All Westland rules

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