Brookline, MA Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Breed Ban?
- No breed-specific ordinance in Brookline
- State Law
- MGL c. 140 (behavior-based dangerous dog)
- Pet Shop Ban
- Brookline bans sale of non-rescue dogs/cats in pet shops
- Topic
- Breed Restrictions
Summary
Brookline has no breed-specific legislation. Massachusetts does not permit BSL under state law. Dangerous dog classification is behavior-based under MGL c. 140. Brookline has banned exotic animals in traveling shows.
Section 157A. (a) An owner or keeper of a dog who fails to comply with an order of a hearing authority or district court shall be punished, for a first offense, by a fine of not more than $500 or imprisonment for not more than 60 days in a jail or house of correction, or both, and for a second or subsequent offense by a fine of not more than $1,000 or imprisonment for not more than 90 days in a jail or house of correction. (b) No person over the age of 17 who has actual knowledge that a dog has been deemed dangerous under section 157 shall permit a child under the age of 17 to own, possess or have the care or custody of such dog.
Full Breakdown
Massachusetts does not permit breed-specific legislation (BSL), and Brookline has no local breed ban. Dangerous dogs are classified by behavior under MGL c. 140 §§136A–174E by Animal Control Officers. Brookline has been progressive in restricting exotic animals in commercial shows and banning pet shop sales of dogs and cats not from shelters/rescues. These policies address animal welfare broadly, not breed-specific ownership.
Violations & Fines
Dangerous dog orders can require muzzling, confinement, or seizure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are any dog breeds banned in Brookline?
Are there pit bull restrictions in Brookline?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Brookline
How Brookline compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Compare Brookline to another location·View the Massachusetts animal ordinances overview
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Breed Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Norfolk County handle breed restrictions.