In accordance with state law, all dogs must be licensed at 4 months of age. The license must be renewed each year between December 1 and March 1. If the dog is purchased after March 1 or becomes 4 months old after March 1, you have 30 days to purchase a license without it being considered late.

Purchasing a License

Between December 1 and March 1 licenses can be purchased at county, city and village treasurers offices as well as the health department. After March 1, licenses can only be purchased through the health department.

To Purchase a License in Person

1. Fill out and print the license application form. (This PDF is interactive. It will allow you to click and type only on the lines where information from you is required.)
2. Bring the entire form to the Health Department. We are located at 209 E Apple Ave in Muskegon.
3. Bring your dog's new rabies and neuter certificates (if needed).

To Purchase a License by Mail

1. Fill out and print the license application form. (This PDF is interactive. It will allow you to click and type only on the lines where information from you is required.)
2. Include a COPY of the new rabies or neuter certificates (if needed).
3. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Postage is 58¢ for one tag, plus 17¢ for each additional tag.
4. Include a check or money order for the correct fee payable to Vector Control.
5. Mail all of the above to:

Muskegon County Health Department

Vector Control Program

209 E Apple Avenue

Muskegon, MI 49442

Changes in Ownership

If you no longer have your dog, please call (231) 724-1246. Let us know if your dog is deceased, sold, given away, stolen or missing, or if you have moved out of the county. This will prevent us from sending delinquent notices or tickets for a dog you no longer have or that has a license in another county/state.

Other Useful Information

Dog Adoptions

Dog Microchip Implantation & Tattooing

For more information, please call (231) 724-1246.