Detroit ordinance requires pet stores selling dogs, cats, or rabbits to source only from shelters, rescues, or municipal animal-control agencies, banning commercial puppy-mill and large-breeder supply chains.
Adopted to align Detroit with the wave of Michigan municipalities cracking down on commercial breeder supply, the rule covers any retail establishment offering dogs, cats, or rabbits for sale. Stores must keep written sourcing records identifying the originating shelter or 501(c)(3) rescue, post sourcing notices on each enclosure, and submit annual reports to BSEED business licensing. Routine inspections cover sourcing, sanitation, veterinary care, and consumer-disclosure compliance; violations risk license revocation. Existing inventory at ordinance adoption was grandfathered for a limited window. Online sales fulfilled from in-city storefronts fall under the same rules.
Sourcing violations carry fines up to $500 per animal per day and license suspension; repeat offenses lead to revocation and Chapter 21 business penalties.
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