Dog leash laws in Bristol County are enforced at the municipal level under MGL Ch. 140. Most towns require dogs to be leashed (typically 6-7 ft) when off the owner's property. Annual dog licensing is required statewide through the local City or Town Clerk.
Bristol County requires dogs to be under control at all times per MGL c.140 §157. Dog licensing is required through the city/town clerk per MGL c.140 §155. Rabies vaccination required. Off-leash exercise in designated areas only. Animal control officers enforce dog laws. Dangerous dog provisions are behavior-based. Many MA communities have active dog parks. MGL c.140 §157 allows selectmen/mayor to order restraint of nuisance dogs.
Dog at large: $25 to $100. Unlicensed dog: $50 to $100 + late fee. Failure to clean up: $25 to $100. Dangerous dog: significant penalties.
Bristol County, MA
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Bristol County, MA
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Bristol County, MA
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Somerset, MA
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Bristol County, MA
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Bristol County, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Bristol County.
See how other cities in Bristol County handle dog leash laws.
See how Somerset's dog leash laws rules stack up against other locations.
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