Wildlife Rescue Permits: Dearborn vs Detroit
How do wildlife rescue permits rules compare between Dearborn, MI and Detroit, MI?
Dearborn and Detroit have similar restriction levels.
Dearborn, MI
Wayne County
Michigan DNR requires permits for anyone caring for injured wildlife. Possessing native birds, mammals, or reptiles without authorization violates state law (MCL 324.40111).
View full Dearborn rules →Detroit, MI
Wayne County
Rehabilitating injured wildlife in Detroit requires a Michigan DNR rehabilitation permit, and additional federal authorization for migratory birds; private possession without a permit is prohibited.
View full Detroit rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dearborn | Detroit |
|---|---|---|
| Permit issuer | Michigan DNR | - |
| Federal birds | USFWS permit required | - |
| Statute | MCL 324.40111 | - |
| Rabies vector | Testing required | - |
| State permit | - | Michigan DNR rehab |
| Federal permit | - | USFWS for migratory birds |
| Local intake | - | Through DACC referral |
| Pet wildlife | - | Prohibited |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dearborn FAQ
Can I rescue an injured bird I find?
Briefly, while transporting it to a licensed rehabber. Long-term care without a DNR permit is illegal. Contact rehabbers via DNR directory or call Howell Nature Center.
Who handles wildlife in Wayne County?
Michigan DNR licenses rehabbers. WCAS does not respond to wildlife. Use DNR's online rehabilitator directory or contact a wildlife removal company for nuisance situations only.
Detroit FAQ
Can I keep an orphaned baby animal until it grows up?
No. Even short-term care without a state permit is illegal; DACC will route you to a permitted rehabilitator for proper assessment and care.
Do I need a permit to feed backyard wildlife?
Feeding is generally not rehabilitation, but Detroit treats sustained feeding of raccoons, deer, or other wildlife as a Chapter 6 nuisance subject to fines.
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