Pet Information

Pet Licensing Requirements

Any person owning or harboring a dog or cat is required to license the pet, pursuant to Section 8-75 of the Rochester City Code.

Pets must be licensed by March 1 of each year. After March 1, an additional late fee is charged. The late fee does not apply to new residents or new pets if the license is obtained within 30 days of moving or acquiring the pet.

Obtaining a Pet License:


To obtain a license you must:
  • Show a current rabies vaccination certificate from a veterinarian licensed in the State of Michigan.
  • Pay the license fee.
You can obtain a pet license in person at City Hall or by mail.

Please fill out a separate Pet License Application for each pet and remember to provide a rabies vaccination certificate.

Mail or deliver applications to: 
City Clerk's Office
400 6th Street
Rochester, MI 48307

Licensing Fees

  • $3 for a spayed or neutered animal
  • $15 for intact animals
  • $12 late fee for licenses obtained after March 1 of each year (not applicable to new residents or new pets if obtained within 30 days of moving or acquiring the pet).

City Park Rules and Park Permits


All animals are prohibited from the city parks with the exception of dogs with a park permit, in accordance with the Dog Park Permit Resolution.

Obtaining a Park Permit:

 
To obtain a park permit you must:
  • Apply for a permit using the Park Permit Application.
  • Residents must have a valid City of Rochester pet license and pay a $10 fee*
  • Non-residents must show proof of pet licensing from their municipality and proof of rabies vaccination, and pay a $40 fee*
*Senior citizens (65 years or older) pay half the regular fees:
  • $5 for a resident
  • $20 for a non-resident

Sidewalks and Pet Clean-Up

The City Code requires that pet droppings on public property and rights-of-way must be removed by the pet owner. Properties include sidewalks, parks, and trailways. Removing pet droppings is a matter of public health and good citizenship.

Lost Pets

If you have lost your pet, please contact the Rochester Police Department at 248-651-9621 or these organizations.

Contact


For more information, contact the City Clerk's Office at 248-733-3700.