Dog Licenses

Did you know?

Michigan Law(MCL Act 339 of 1919) requires dogs over 4 months of age, newly purchased/ acquired, or are just becoming Michigan residents obtain a Michigan Dog License.  Grand Traverse County uses 100% of revenue generated thru dog licenses to provide Animal Control Services to residents. *Dog licenses are issued based on your dog's rabies vaccination date, NOT the date you purchased the license.*

Importance of Licensing

• A dog license helps to get your dog home safe if they become lost.
• It's the responsible thing to do.  Licensing protects our community by ensuring dogs are vaccinated against rabies.
• It's the law.

First Time License Purchases

Stop by our office or one of our authorized Licensing Locations.  Please bring your dogs current/valid rabies certificate. A certificate of sterilization is also required if the information is not stated on the rabies certificate or is incorrect. Rabies certificates will be returned to you for your records.  *Per Michigan Law the Rabies shot is required to be administrated by a certified veterinarian* 

Grand Traverse County Dog License Application(PDF)

Renewing Licenses

As a courtesy, the Treasurer's Office will mail a renewal notice one month before a license expires.  Failure to receive the notice does not relieve a dog owner of their responsibility to renew an expiring dog license.

If your veterinarian is one of our authorized Licensing Locations you may purchase a new license when your dog receives their rabies vaccination.

You can mail in or stop by our office to renew your dog license.  You will be required to provide a current and valid rabies certificate.  A certificate of sterilization is also required if the information is not stated on the rabies certificate or is incorrect.  Rabies certificates will be returned to you for your records.

Payments can be mailed to our office:

Grand Traverse County Treasurer's Office, 400 Boardman Ave. Ste. #104, Traverse City, MI  49684

Please make sure to include:

• Payment-Checks made payable to:  "G.T. County Treasurer".  Please DO NOT send cash.
• Current Rabies certificate for your dog. 

Please reference your phone number on your check so we may contact you if we have questions on your renewal.