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. You may apply by mail using the Pet License Application or in person at City Hall.

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

Pets must be licensed by March 1 of each year. After March 1, an additional $12 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.

• $3 for a spayed or neutered animal
• $15 for intact animals

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.