Cambridge requires dogs to be leashed in all public areas except designated off-leash parks; leashes may not exceed 8 feet and owners must carry waste bags.
Cambridge Municipal Code Chapter 6.04 requires that all dogs in public spaces be restrained on a leash no longer than 8 feet. This includes sidewalks, streets, public plazas, the Charles River paths, and all parks except designated off-leash areas. Cambridge maintains several official off-leash zones including sections of Danehy Park, Fresh Pond Reservation (designated hours only), and Raymond Park. Even in off-leash zones, dogs must be under verbal control and licensed. Owners must carry waste bags and immediately pick up after their dogs; failure to do so is a separate violation under the pooper-scooper ordinance with fines up to 50 dollars. Dogs are prohibited from school grounds, playgrounds, and athletic fields during use. The Cambridge Animal Commission licenses dogs annually and enforces leash rules alongside Cambridge Police.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Cambridge, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
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