Sterling Heights, MI Animal Ordinances: Mandatory Spay/Neuter (2026)

The potentially dangerous dog, if over 12 weeks old, has been spayed or neutered.

(h)   All impoundment and lodging costs have been paid by the owner.

(2)   Before the dog returns to any property within the city other than a qualified rescue organization or a boarding business, the owner of a potentially dangerous dog shall ensure that the dog's license is current and shall register the dog with the City Clerk as a potentially dangerous dog with all information required by the City Clerk's potentially dangerous dog registration form, as well as the following:

(a)   Proof of animal control's certification that the required fence, self-locking gate, and leash have all been procured for the dog.

(b)   Proof of microchipping and the information contained on the microchip. The owner shall ensure that the microchip information provided to the city is kept up to date.

(c)   Proof of the required insurance policy.

(d)   Proof of the successful completion of the required training and temperament testing.

(e)   Two recent color photographs of the dog, which clearly show the color and approximate size of the animal.

(3)   The owner or keeper of a potentially dangerous dog must, within ten business days, report to the City Clerk if the dog has been permanently removed from the city, has died, or has relocated within the city. The new address of a