Clerk's Office

The Township Clerk plays a critical role in the operation and administration of the government. Michigan law requires the Clerk to carry out three major responsibilities involving record-keeping, financial operations, and elections. The Clerk is a member of the Board of Trustees, voting on questions of budget, personnel appointments, zoning, and other matters. The Clerk acts as Secretary to the Township Board, posting legal notices and subscribing the minutes. 

The Clerk chairs the Board of Election Commissioners and acts as Secretary to the Board of Ethics. In addition to the statutory duties described above, the Clerk also issues licenses. The Deputy Clerk acts as FOIA Coordinator, as the Board of Trustees reviews all Freedom of Information Act appeals. 

The Clerk’s office connects people to their government

Relevance 
Provide meaningful service and evolve to meet the changing needs of our community

Access 
Open interaction in a welcoming manner so everyone feels respected

Teamwork  
Cooperatively leverage our individual differences to achieve a common goal

The Clerk's Office is committed to maintaining the integrity of government in Canton Township and ensuring an informed citizenry by providing transparent access to township government through open and accessible meetings and accurate recording of township board proceedings; by protecting and preserving public documents and records; through the conduct of fair and democratic elections; and by providing excellent service to the public. 

EAC 2020 Clearie Opens in new windowOutstanding Innovation in Election Cybersecurity and Technology (Small Jurisdictions)

EAC 2021 Clearie Opens in new windowImproving Accessibility for Voters with Disabilities (2021 Honorable Mention)

MAMC COTY

The Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks has named Canton Clerk Michael Siegrist the 2021 Township Clerk of the Year

Passport SERVICE

The Clerk’s Office offers first-time passport services. Passport books cost $130 for adults and $100 for minors (under 16).  Please note, there's an additional $35 application fee per person that can be paid by cash, check or credit card. 

What you will need:

  • Form DS-11 (PDF)
  • Birth Certificate
  • Driver's License
  • Passport Photo (service available at the Clerk's Office for an additional $15 fee)

We ask that you bring all originals and copies needed. Please note, there is a flat fee of $5 if copies need to be made.

Payments made to the US Department of State must be made by check or money order. Payments made to the Clerk's office can be made by cash, check or credit card. 

The Clerk's Office is currently accepting appointments Monday – Friday, 9am – 3pm.  To schedule an appointment, please call 734/394-5120.

Notary Service
Notary services are available at no cost. Multiple page documents - please call the Clerk's Office for an appointment.

Ordinances

For ordinance complaints: 734/394-5400
For ordinance questions: 734/394-5335

Licensing

  1. Dog License
  2. Bicycle License
  3. Solicitor & Peddler License
  4. Food Truck License

Dog License

Apply Online Here (HTML)

To apply for a dog license or a dog park membership, please click the link below and complete the online form. You will need a digital copy of current rabies and distemper vaccinations.  The fees structure is as follows: 

  • $10/dog (up to three dogs allowed)
  • $25/household for dog park membership (will be paid with first dog registered) 
  • $20/refundable deposit for the key fob to access the dog park
  • $50 for non-resident dog park membership
  • 2.9% and a .30 cent per transaction credit card fee applies. The Township is legally not allowed to cover these costs. Some credit card fees apply if applying in person or online. You may use a check or cash if applying in person at the Township Hall, but your items may not be ready for pickup immediately. 

You must complete a form for each dog. All credit card fees will be totaled and applied at the end. You must renew in-person if you have a service dog, if you live outside of Canton, or you have more than three dogs (animal fancier required). 

Dog License Paper Application (PDF)

Dog Park Waiver (PDF) 

Dog Park Rules (PDF) 

Animal Fancier Permit Application (PDF)

Please Note: To license a dog, a valid and current certificate of vaccination for Rabies and Distemper must be provided and signed by an accredited veterinarian. Renewals by mail will still be processed if needed. If you would like an application mailed to you, please call the Clerk's Office. 

  1. Massage License
  2. Smoking Establishment License
  3. Going Out of Business License
  4. Consumer Fireworks Application
  5. Sexually Oriented Business
  6. Teen Club License
  7. Junk Dealer

Massage License

This license is for those wishing to operate a massage establishment. 

Apply Online To Renew An Existing License Here (HTML)

Massage License Application (PDF)
Authorization To Release Information Form (PDF) 
Apply Online To Renew An Existing License Here (HTML)

  1. Kennel License
  2. Liquor License

Kennel License

Kennel License Application (PDF)