New Countywide Dog Licensing Procedure

The Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners recently approved a civil infraction ordinance that requires all dogs be licensed.   Prior to this new ordinance, having an unlicensed dog was a misdemeanor offense. Creating a civil infraction, which includes a fine only if the dog remains unlicensed, decriminalized this offense. However, the county also announced that enforcement will increase. Dog licensing is mandated by state law to increase public safety by ensuring all dogs are vaccinated against rabies.

If you own an unlicensed dog, you will be issued a violation notice before getting a citation. Fines range from $50 to $500. If you receive a violation notice, you should contact the Washtenaw County Treasurer's office. Once you have licensed your dog, the fine and the infraction will be removed.

Washtenaw County licenses are offered as a 1 or 3 year licenses, expiring on the expiration of the current rabies vaccination. Licenses are $6/year for a neutered or spayed dog, $12/year for unaltered dogs, and free for service dogs. All dogs must have proof of rabies vaccination to receive a license. In the past, a dog license could be purchased from the Township Treasurer, but now it must be purchased through the County. You can purchase a license online HERE. Contact the County Treasurer at dogs@ewashtenaw.org or call 734-222-6600.

Manchester Township Treasurer Laurie Carey, who was able to issue licenses under the old system, stated that she has applications and pamphlets at the Township Office and has volunteered to help everyone submit applications electronically and/or copy rabies certificates at her office. Laurie Carey can be reached through email at mtwp_treasurer@sbcglobal.net or at the township office at 734-428-7090.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.