There is a good chance if you're walking your dog in Grand Rapids you've seen signs in front yards of homes or business asking you to keep your dog off the lawn.

Read More: Your Dogs Are Welcome On These West Michigan Restaurant Patios

The biggest reason is that they don't want your dog to pee or poop on the lawn and cause possible damage from it.

Credit: Big Joe Pesh / TSM Grand Rapids
Credit: Big Joe Pesh / TSM Grand Rapids
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If someone has one of those signs in the front yard and you ignore it could you find yourself in trouble with the law? Here is what I found out.

Are You Breaking The Law or Just Being Rude When You Ignore These Signs?

While there may not be a specific law against dogs urinating on lawns, it is generally considered rude and inconsiderate to allow your dog to pee or poop on someone else's private property without permission.

Most cities, including Grand Rapids, have laws requiring dog owners to clean up after their pets in public areas or on others' property.

Credit: Big Joe Pesh / TSM Grand Rapids
Credit: Big Joe Pesh / TSM Grand Rapids
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Now the area between the sidewalk and street is typically considered more acceptable for dogs to relieve themselves, as it's usually public property.

However, even there, owners should clean up solid waste.

The reasons some homeowners dislike dogs urinating or defecating on their lawns, even if it's cleaned up, as it can damage grass and landscaping over time.

If a homeowner has posted signs asking not to allow dogs to pee or poop on their property, it's best to respect those wishes.

Credit: Big Joe Pesh / TSM Grand Rapids
Credit: Big Joe Pesh / TSM Grand Rapids
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While you may not face legal consequences for a dog going to the bathroom on someone's lawn, it could lead to neighbor disputes or complaints if done repeatedly.

Personally I don't mind if someone's dog pee's or poops on our front yard, just make sure you don't leave any poop behind and we don't have a problem.

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If you leave it and don't come back I'll make it my life's mission to find out where you live and leave a flaming bag of my own on your front porch.

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Gallery Credit: Big Joe Pesh

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