Prohibited words in agency names; names and emblems in advertising

Rule 4. (1) The following words or terms in an agency name shall not be approved by the department: (a) "Police," "sheriff," "deputy," "peace officer," "officer," or "marshal." (b) "Michigan," "United States," "U.S." or any other term that could be confused with a federal, state, or local governmental entity, or the name of a specific city, village, township, or county. However, an owner may use their own name that is similar to the name of a city, village, township or county if the owner’s business is remote from the city, village, township, or county with a similar name. (c) "Homeland," "homeland security, "or "national security." (2) An agency shall not solicit or advertise for business with any name other than the name under which it is licensed. This includes letterheads, vehicles, and similar materials. (3) An agency shall not display on a vehicle or uniform any shield, star, or other emblem that would be likely to deceive or confuse the public or be identical with an emblem of any law enforcement agency.

History: 1979 AC; 2007 AACS; 2014 AACS; 2025 MR 22, Eff. November 4, 2025.