Dog Leash Laws: Grand Rapids vs Kentwood

Where can my dog be off-leash in Grand Rapids?

Only at officially designated off-leash dog parks. Standard city parks, sidewalks, trails, and riverwalks all require leashes.

Where do I license my dog?

Through the Kent County Treasurer's office. You'll need a current rabies certificate from your veterinarian to apply.

Does Grand Rapids ban any dog breeds?

No. Grand Rapids does not have a breed-specific ban. Dangerous-dog cases are handled under Michigan's behavior-based statute.

Is there a leash law in Kent County, Michigan?

Yes. Section 11(b) of the Kent County Animal Control Ordinance (Ord. No. 06-23-22-82, effective July 1, 2022) requires that any time a dog is off the owner's property in Kent County, it must be restrained with a lead or leash no greater than 6 feet in length. Limited exceptions apply at established dog parks (where park rules allow off-leash) and during lawful hunting with the owner/custodian. The rule applies in unincorporated Kent County and in townships that have not adopted their own ordinance.

What is the fine for an unleashed dog in Kent County, MI?

Under Section 15(a) of the Kent County Animal Control Ordinance, a leash violation is a municipal civil infraction punishable by a $100 fine for a first offense and $200 for a subsequent offense within five years, plus costs of prosecution as determined by the court. The dog may also be captured and impounded under Section 8(a)(3), and the owner may have to pay impound fees and licensing costs to reclaim it under Section 12.

Does the Kent County leash law apply inside the City of Grand Rapids?

No. Section 4 of the county ordinance, citing MCL 287.289a, states the ordinance "shall not be construed to apply within any city, village or township which has adopted its own Animal control ordinance." Grand Rapids has its own Chapter 155 (Animals) of the City Code, and most other Kent County cities operate their own animal codes. Inside those cities, the local ordinance — not the Kent County rule — governs.

Can I walk my dog off-leash on a trail or at a dog park in Kent County?

Section 11(b)(1) allows a dog to be off-leash inside the boundaries of an established dog park where the park's posted rules permit it, as long as the owner or custodian is present. Otherwise (on trails, sidewalks, public parks without an off-leash designation, or other public property), the 6-foot leash rule applies. Section 11(b)(2) also exempts dogs engaged in lawful hunting accompanied by the owner.

Who enforces the Kent County leash law?

Section 7(b) places Animal Control Officers under the supervision of the Kent County Sheriff. Section 8(a) authorizes both Animal Control Officers and any Kent County Sheriff's Deputy to capture unrestrained, stray, or unlicensed dogs and to issue municipal civil infraction citations (Section 15(b)). Non-emergency reports: 616-632-7310. Animal attacks in progress: 911.