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Livestock brand

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Registered livestock brand use

The following rules must be followed when using livestock brands:

  • may be used on cattle, horses, hogs, sheep or goats
  • must be clearly visible
  • must be placed at least 2 inches high. For cattle, it must be placed at least 3 inches high
  • cannot be an earmark, tattoo, or vaccination mark

Livestock brand approvals and transfers

  • If your desired livestock brand is not in conflict with existing brands and approved, your application will be recorded and returned to you with an assigned identification number, including your livestock brand’s expiration date.

  • If an existing brand is transferring ownership, a TR-34 Certification from the registered owner is also required.

Livestock brand expiration date timelines

  • Original livestock brand: 10 years after registration
  • Livestock brand renewal: 10 years after renewal. The renewal must be applied for within 90 days of expiration.
  • Livestock brand transfer: 5 years after transfer, then 10 years after renewal

Livestock brand application fees

  • Original brand: $50
  • Renewal: $20
  • Transfer: $10

Payment must be in the form of a check or money order payable to the State of Michigan.

Submitting livestock brand applications

Fill out the LB-1 Livestock Brand Registration Application and mail to:

Michigan Department of State
Internal Services Section
7064 Crowner Dr.
Lansing, MI 48918

LB-1 Livestock Brand Registration Application

Livestock brand questions

If you have any questions regarding livestock brands, please contact the Internal Services Section at mdos-iss@michigan.gov.