FAQs • Garden City, MI • CivicEngage

How do I obtain a business license?: View the steps for getting a license (PDF).

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City Clerk

1. What are your hours?: City offices at City Hall are open from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

2. How do I obtain a birth certificate?

Birth certificates can only be obtained in person by the individual of record or one of the parents listed on the birth certificate. The person obtaining the birth certificate must present his/her picture identification. We only have birth records for individuals born in Garden City. NOTE BEGINNING JULY 1, 2020 The cost is $20 for 1 copy and $5 for any additional copies purchased at the same time (Additional Certified Mail Fees apply if birth record needs to be mailed). If you were born prior to 1979 and your parents were not married, or you were adopted, the City will not have your birth record. You must contact the State of Michigan at 517-335-8666.

Birth certificates can be requested from Garden City by mail. MAIL IN FORM . Your request can also be submitted in letter format. You must include the name on record, the date of birth, mother’s full maiden name, father’s full name, your relationship to the individual on record and an address where you want the record mailed. (If you are the individual on record, and you have had a name change, list the reason, i.e., marriage, etc.) Your must provide a copy of your valid photo ID or have your application notarized by a notary public with a stamp and a seal. Please include a check or money order for $29.90 for 1 copy and $5 for each additional copy made payable to the City of Garden City.

on-line with the State of Michigan Vital Records.

3. How do I obtain a death certificate?: Death records are public information and can be obtained by anyone. NOTE BEGINNING JULY 1, 2020 Certified records cost $20 for the first copy, and $5 for each additional copy (purchased at the same time), and can be obtained in person or with mail in request. A mail-in request form is available or you can submit your request in letter format. Please be sure to include the date of death, a return address and your check or money order made payable to Garden City.
Contact the City Clerk for more information.

4. How do I get my animal licensed?: Once your new animal has received its first year rabies shot, you will need to obtain a license. Animal Licenses can be obtained in-person at City Hall.

The new fees are $10 per year for spayed/neutered animals and $20 per year for non-spayed/neutered. You must present your Certificate of Rabies Vaccination from your veterinarian, and proof of neuter/spay must be provided. .

City ordinance allows a maximum of 3 animals per household. View City Hall's address.

5. Do I need a permit for a garage sale?: Yes you do. Permits for garage sales are $6 and can be obtained online and at the Clerk’s Office. You must know your sale dates. Pay Online.
View garage sale rules (PDF).

6. How can I register to vote?: You must be 18 years of age and a United States Citizen in order to vote. The State of Michigan requires that you can only register to vote at the address on your driver’s license. You can register to vote by mail, at the City Clerk's office, at any or Secretary of State's office. Download the registration form. by using this form (PDF).