Breed Restrictions: Dearborn vs Detroit
How do breed restrictions rules compare between Dearborn, MI and Detroit, MI?
Detroit has fewer restrictions than Dearborn.
Dearborn, MI
Wayne County
Dearborn does not have breed-specific legislation, but dangerous and vicious dogs of any breed are regulated under Michigan MCL 287.321 and local ordinance requiring confinement and insurance.
View full Dearborn rules →Detroit, MI
Wayne County
Detroit does not ban pit bulls or any specific dog breed. The city regulates dogs by behavior under Chapter 6's Dangerous Animals Ordinance (amended October 2021), which classifies and restricts individual animals adjudicated dangerous regardless of breed.
View full Detroit rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dearborn | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Breed ban | None | - |
| State dangerous dog law | MCL 287.321 | - |
| Insurance after designation | Typically 100,000 dollars | - |
| Licensing authority | Wayne County | - |
| Muzzle required | After dangerous dog finding | - |
| Approach | - | Behavior-based, not breed-based |
| Primary Code | - | Detroit Ch. 6 (2021 amendment) |
| Enclosure | - | Locked, 6 ft tall |
| Off-Property Restraint | - | Muzzle + 6 ft leash |
| State Law on BSL | - | Currently permitted statewide |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dearborn FAQ
Can I own a pit bull in Dearborn?
Yes. Dearborn has no breed-specific legislation. Responsible ownership and compliance with dangerous dog laws is required.
What happens after a bite?
Animal control investigates. Depending on severity, the dog may be designated dangerous with confinement, insurance, and muzzle requirements.
Detroit FAQ
Does Detroit ban pit bulls?
No. Detroit does not ban pit bulls or any specific breed. The city uses a behavior-based Dangerous Animals Ordinance under Chapter 6, amended in October 2021, applied to individual animals adjudicated dangerous regardless of breed.
What restrictions apply to a dangerous dog in Detroit?
Owners must confine the animal in a locked enclosure at least 6 feet tall, muzzle and restrain it on a leash of 6 feet or less off-property, post warnings, and use only handlers age 18 or older.
Could Detroit enact a breed ban?
Under current Michigan law cities may enact breed-specific legislation, but Detroit has not. Pending state Senate Bill 741, if enacted, would prohibit Michigan municipalities from regulating dogs based on breed.
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