Animal Ordinances in Ann Arbor, MI: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Ann Arbor or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Ann Arbor has 6 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

Breed Restrictions

Michigan has no statewide breed ban and does not preempt local breed-specific legislation. Some Michigan cities maintain breed restrictions. Check Ann Arbor code.

Key details: State Law: Behavior-based (MCL §287.321). Local BSL: Not preempted. Dangerous Dogs: Behavior-based designation. Check: Ann Arbor municipal code.

Varies by city. State dangerous animal violations: fines, containment requirements, potential euthanasia for severe attacks. Local BSL: varies.

Dog Leash Laws

Ann Arbor requires dogs to be leashed or confined. Michigan Dog Law (MCL §287.261 et seq.) requires licensing. Dog at large violations carry owner liability.

Key details: Leash: Required in public (6 ft). Off-Leash: Designated parks only. License: County treasurer (MCL §287.262). Bite Liability: Strict (MCL §287.321).

Off-leash: $25 to $150 citation. Failure to clean up: $50 to $250. Unlicensed dog: $25 to $100. Dog bite: civil liability (MCL §287.321).

Beekeeping

Ann Arbor may allow residential beekeeping with hive limits and setback requirements. Regulations vary between Michigan cities. Registration may be required.

Key details: Hives: Typically 2 to 4 residential. Setback: Varies by city. Flyway: 6-ft barrier may be required. Registration: MDARD may require.

Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: mediation then fines. Swarm incidents: emergency response.

Exotic Pets

Ann Arbor restricts ownership of exotic and wild animals. Many species require special permits or are prohibited entirely for public safety.

Key details: Large Cats: Generally prohibited. Primates: Generally prohibited. Permits: Required for some species. Insurance: May be required.

Confiscation of prohibited animals. Fines $500 to $5,000. Criminal charges possible for dangerous species. Owner liable for damages from escaped animals.

This is one of the stricter rules in Ann Arbor's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Wildlife Feeding

Ann Arbor restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisance conditions.

Key details: Prohibited: Deer, coyotes, bears. Bird Feeders: May be restricted. Pet Food: Must not be left outside. Fines: $50 to $500.

Warnings for first offense. Fines typically $50 to $500. Repeat violations may result in misdemeanor charges in some jurisdictions.

Chickens & Livestock

Ann Arbor was one of the first US cities to legalize backyard chickens (1992 ordinance, expanded 2008). Residents may keep up to 6 hens with a permit; roosters are banned. Coops must be 10 feet from any lot line and 40 feet from neighboring dwellings. The city also permits limited beekeeping. Other livestock (goats, pigs) are not allowed in residential zones.

Key details: Permit: Up to 6 hens permitted per residential lot. Restriction: Roosters prohibited. Permit: Annual permit required from Building Department. Minimum: Coop minimum 10 ft from any lot line. Minimum: Coop minimum 40 ft from neighbor dwellings.

Operating without a permit, exceeding 6 hens, or keeping a rooster is a civil infraction with fines of $100 first offense, $200 second, and $500 third within 12 months. The Building Department may order the removal of birds. Repeated nuisance violations (odor, noise, escape) can result in permit revocation. Report concerns to (734) 794-6263.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Ann Arbor gives residents more flexibility on chickens & livestock.

The Bottom Line

Ann Arbor's animal ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Ann Arbor is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Ann Arbor can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.