Dog Leash Laws: Detroit vs Livonia
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Detroit, MI and Livonia, MI?
Detroit and Livonia have similar restriction levels.
Detroit, MI
Wayne County
Detroit Code of Ordinances Chapter 6, Article II requires every dog off its owner's property to be held by a leash or otherwise under restraint. Detroit Animal Care and Control (DACC) enforces leash, licensing, and dangerous-animal provisions citywide.
View full Detroit rules →Livonia, MI
Wayne County
Livonia requires all dogs to be leashed or under direct control in public spaces, with off-leash activity only permitted in designated dog park areas or private fenced yards.
View full Livonia rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Detroit | Livonia |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Code | Detroit City Code Ch. 6, Art. II | - |
| Restraint Rule | Sec. 6-2-6 (leash off-property) | - |
| Dangerous Animals | 2021 Ch. 6 amendment | - |
| Enforcement | Detroit Animal Care & Control | - |
| DACC Address | 7401 Chrysler Drive | - |
| Leash length | - | 6 feet maximum |
| Off-leash areas | - | Designated dog parks only |
| License | - | Wayne County annual |
| Impound authority | - | Wayne County Animal Control |
| Service animals | - | Exempt when working |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Detroit FAQ
Does Detroit require dogs to be on a leash?
Yes. Detroit City Code Sec. 6-2-6 makes it unlawful to allow a dog to stray on any property other than the owner's own unless held by a leash or under restraint. Working police dogs are the carve-out.
Who enforces Detroit's dog rules?
Detroit Animal Care and Control (DACC) in the General Services Department enforces Chapter 6. DACC handles impoundment, licensing, rabies-vaccination verification, and dangerous-dog cases from 7401 Chrysler Drive.
Do I need a dog license in Detroit?
Yes. Chapter 6, Article II requires every dog four months or older to be licensed and currently vaccinated against rabies. Licenses are issued through DACC; proof of rabies vaccination is required at application.
Livonia FAQ
Can my dog be off-leash on a trail?
No. Dogs must be leashed on all public trails and paths in Livonia, regardless of how well-trained they are.
Where is the Livonia dog park?
Check the Livonia Parks and Recreation website for current designated off-leash areas and hours of operation.
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