Michigan Dog Poop Laws by County: A Responsible Owner’s Guide
Whether you live in bustling Detroit or a quiet lakeside town, one thing is true across Michigan—cleaning up after your dog is expected and, in most places, required by law. While there’s no single statewide dog poop law in Michigan, nearly all counties and municipalities have local ordinances in place to ensure pet waste is properly managed.
This article breaks down Michigan dog poop laws by county so you can stay informed, avoid fines, and contribute to a cleaner, more respectful community for everyone.
Is There a Statewide Dog Poop Law in Michigan?
No, Michigan does not have a specific statewide dog poop law. However, state law allows local governments to adopt animal control and sanitation ordinances that require pet owners to remove dog feces from public and private property. Violations are usually classified as public nuisance or sanitation offenses and are enforced by local animal control, code enforcement, or police.
Dog Poop Laws by Major Michigan Counties
Wayne County (Detroit)
Detroit enforces pet waste laws under its nuisance ordinance. According to Detroit Code of Ordinances Chapter 6, pet owners must clean up their dog’s waste on any property not their own. Fines for violations typically start at $100.
- Applies to sidewalks, parks, yards, and vacant lots
- Public parks like Belle Isle and Rouge Park have pet waste signs and disposal bins
- Repeat violations may result in increased fines or legal action
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Oakland County (Troy, Royal Oak, Farmington Hills)
Most cities in Oakland County require immediate pet waste cleanup. Troy and Royal Oak have ordinances that mandate pet owners remove dog feces from any public property or private property not owned by them. Fines typically start at $75 and may increase depending on the situation.
HOAs and apartment communities often enforce stricter rules with additional penalties.
Macomb County (Warren, Sterling Heights, St. Clair Shores)
Macomb County cities enforce pet waste laws through their municipal codes. In Warren, failure to clean up after your dog in public spaces is considered a health code violation. First-time fines usually start around $50 and increase with repeat violations.
Sterling Heights and other cities encourage compliance with posted signage and accessible waste bins in parks.
Kent County (Grand Rapids)
Grand Rapids enforces dog poop cleanup under its nuisance and sanitation code. Pet owners must clean up feces from all public sidewalks, trails, and parks. Violators may be fined $100 or more, especially in popular areas like Riverside Park and Kent Trails.
City ordinance requires that dog walkers carry waste bags and dispose of used bags properly.
Washtenaw County (Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti)
Ann Arbor’s city code mandates pet waste removal from all non-owner property. Section 9:46 of the Ann Arbor Code of Ordinances classifies dog poop left behind as a public nuisance. The fine starts at $100 and may go higher for repeat offenses or if health hazards are created.
Ypsilanti has similar rules, with enforcement primarily complaint-driven.
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County-by-County Summary Table
| County | Cleanup Required? | Typical Fine | Enforcement Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wayne (Detroit) | Yes | $100+ | Detroit Animal Control / Code Enforcement |
| Oakland | Yes | $75–$150 | City Code Enforcement / Animal Services |
| Macomb | Yes | $50–$100 | Municipal Ordinance Enforcement |
| Kent (Grand Rapids) | Yes | $100–$200 | Grand Rapids Animal Control |
| Washtenaw | Yes | $100+ | Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti City Enforcement |
What About Rural Counties?
In rural counties, pet waste laws may be less explicitly written, but general nuisance, sanitation, or animal control codes still apply. Townships often adopt similar ordinances or rely on homeowner complaints for enforcement. Whether you’re in the Upper Peninsula or a small inland town, the expectation is the same—clean up after your dog.
Even without formal enforcement, rural communities value mutual respect and cleanliness. Cleanup is expected in:
- Community parks and trails
- Campgrounds and public spaces
- Shared driveways or rural subdivisions
How Are These Laws Enforced?
Pet waste laws in Michigan are enforced by local authorities. These include:
- Animal control officers
- City code enforcement staff
- Park rangers or neighborhood managers
- HOAs with private enforcement authority
In most cities, you can report a violation through online forms or non-emergency phone numbers. Repeat offenders may face higher fines and even court notices.
Tips to Stay Compliant and Avoid Fines
- Carry poop bags every time you walk your dog
- Dispose of waste immediately—don’t leave it “for later”
- Use waste stations provided in parks and trails
- Educate family members or dog walkers about local rules
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Are There Any Exceptions?
Rarely. Some individuals with verified physical disabilities may be exempt from cleaning up after service dogs under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, many still make arrangements to comply with local laws. Otherwise, no exceptions apply—cleanup is expected everywhere.
Conclusion
Michigan’s dog poop laws vary by county and city, but the goal is always the same—keep public spaces clean and healthy. Whether you live in Detroit, Grand Rapids, or a small town near Lake Michigan, being a responsible dog owner includes carrying waste bags, cleaning up promptly, and respecting your neighbors.
Want to take your pet care further? Use this dog age calculator to learn more about your pup’s needs and provide the right care at every stage of life.