Michigan Service Dog Registration

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Michigan Service Dog Laws at a Glance

Written by: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-MHSP)
Medically Reviewed by Evelyn Daley MSW, LCSW
Published: Last updated:

The ADA protects service dog handlers in every state. Michigan adds its own rules in Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.502c — here is what that means for you, with a link to each official source.

Public access lawMich. Comp. Laws § 750.502c
Service dogs in trainingCovered — Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.502c
Fake service dog penaltyA misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, and/or up to 30 days of community serviceMich. Comp. Laws §§ 752.62, 752.63
Harming a service dogMisdemeanor: up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine up to $500 for harming, impeding or interfering with a service animal.Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.50a
Dog license feeA service animal used by a person with a disability, or owned by a training entity, is not subject to any licensing fee; overrides local ordinances.Mich. Comp. Laws § 287.291
Where to file a complaintMichigan Department of Civil RightsFile within 180 days of the incident.

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Michigan Service Dog FAQ

Do I have to register my service dog in Michigan?

No. Neither the ADA nor Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.502c requires registration, and businesses may not demand it.

What can a business in Michigan ask about my service dog?

Only two questions: is the dog required because of a disability, and what task is it trained to perform. No documents, demonstrations or pet fees.

Can I take a service dog in training into public places in Michigan?

Yes. The ADA doesn't cover dogs in training, but Michigan does under Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.502c.

Is it illegal to pass off a pet as a service dog in Michigan?

Yes. Under Mich. Comp. Laws §§ 752.62, 752.63, it is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, and/or up to 30 days of community service.

What happens if someone harms or interferes with my service dog in Michigan?

Michigan treats it as a specific offense under Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.50a: Misdemeanor: up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine up to $500 for harming, impeding or interfering with a service animal. Report it to local police, and keep vet bills and witness details.

Do I pay a dog license fee for my service dog in Michigan?

A service animal used by a person with a disability, or owned by a training entity, is not subject to any licensing fee; overrides local ordinances (Mich. Comp. Laws § 287.291). Your dog may still need to be licensed and vaccinated.

How do I file a complaint if I'm refused access in Michigan?

File with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights within 180 days of the incident, or with the U.S. Department of Justice at ADA.gov.

Can I fly with my service dog from Detroit (DTW)?

Yes. Airlines at Detroit (DTW) must accept trained service dogs in the cabin free of charge; most ask for the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form in advance.

Are service dogs allowed in rental housing in Michigan?

Generally yes. Trained service dogs are a reasonable accommodation under the federal Fair Housing Act and MCL 37.1502, 37.1506a, so landlords should waive no-pet rules and pet fees, with narrow exceptions such as some small owner-occupied buildings.

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Official Sources

  1. Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.502c — service animal public access
  2. Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.50a — harming or interfering with a service dog
  3. Mich. Comp. Laws § 287.291 — dog license fee
  4. MCL 37.1502, 37.1506a — housing
  5. Michigan Department of Civil Rights — complaints
  6. ADA Requirements: Service Animals (U.S. Department of Justice) — federal rules
  7. Service Animals (U.S. Department of Transportation) — air travel

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This summary of Michigan law was last reviewed in October 2026 and is general information, not legal advice. United States Service Dogs is a private registration service, not a government agency.