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Michigan Statewide Rule

Michigan Dog Law and Statewide Leash Requirements

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Michigan (2026)

Key Facts

Statute
MCL 287.262
Off-Premises Rule
Leash required
Hunting Exception
Hounds while hunting
Penalty
Misdemeanor
Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: Michigan Legislature

Summary

Michigan's Dog Law of 1919 requires dogs to be licensed and under control. State law mandates leashing or close confinement when off the owner's premises, and municipalities may add stricter local leash ordinances.

287.262 Dogs; licensing, tags, leashes. Sec. 2. It shall be unlawful for any person to own any dog 6 months old or over, unless the dog is licensed as hereinafter provided, or to own any dog 6 months old or over that does not at all times wear a collar with a tag approved by the director of agriculture, attached as hereinafter provided, except when engaged in lawful hunting accompanied by its owner or custodian; or for any owner of any female dog to permit the female dog to go beyond the premises of such owner when she is in heat, unless the female dog is held properly in leash; or for any person except the owner or authorized agent, to remove any license tag from a dog; or for any owner to allow any dog, except working dogs such as leader dogs, guard dogs, farm dogs, hunting dogs, and other such dogs, when accompanied by their owner or his authorized agent, while actively engaged in activities for which such dogs are trained, to stray unless held properly in leash.

Source: Michigan LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Under MCL 287.262, no dog (other than a hound while hunting) may stray from the owner's premises unless held properly in leash. MCL 287.265 authorizes any person to kill a dog pursuing or attacking livestock or poultry. Owners must license dogs annually under MCL 287.266. While the state sets a minimum leash standard for off-premises dogs, municipalities and counties can adopt stricter leash, licensing, and at-large rules. The state law applies universally and is enforced by county animal control and dog wardens.

Violations & Penalties

Misdemeanor under MCL 287.262 with fines up to $500; impoundment fees; civil liability for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Michigan have a statewide leash law?
Yes. MCL 287.262 requires dogs off the owner's premises to be held properly in leash, except hounds while actively hunting.
Can my dog be off-leash on my own property in Michigan?
State law allows dogs to be off-leash on the owner's premises if controlled, but local ordinances may impose additional confinement rules.

Sources

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