Attleboro's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Attleboro, Massachusetts, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Dog Leash Laws

Attleboro requires dogs to be restrained with a leash at all times when off the owner's property under city ordinance and MGL Ch. 140. Annual licensing is required (April 1-March 31). Late fee of $25 per dog applies after June 1. Failure to license is a $50 fine.

Key details: Leash: Required at all times off property. License Period: April 1–March 31 annually. No License Fine: $50. No Rabies Proof: $100 fine.

No license: $50 fine (Ord. 9-36/9-37). Late fee: $25/dog after June 1. No rabies proof: $100 fine.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Attleboro actively enforces its dog leash laws requirements.

Breed Restrictions

Attleboro does not impose breed-specific legislation. The city enforces dangerous dog provisions under its ordinance and state law MGL Ch. 140. A dangerous dog is one that attacks causing physical injury or death without justification, or behaves in a manner posing an unjustified imminent threat.

Key details: Breed Bans: None — no BSL. Dangerous Dog: Attack causing injury or imminent threat. State Law: MGL Ch. 140 provisions apply. Enforcement: Animal Control.

Dangerous dog orders: restraint, muzzling, confinement. Failure to comply: fines up to $500. Severe attack: possible euthanasia order.

Exotic Pets

Attleboro regulates animal keeping through Board of Health regulations. Massachusetts restricts exotic animal possession under MGL Ch. 131 §23 and 321 CMR 9.01, which lists prohibited species. The city does not have a specific exotic pet ordinance beyond state law.

Key details: State Law: MGL Ch. 131 §23 / 321 CMR 9.01. Prohibited Species: Listed in 321 CMR 9.01. Local Authority: Board of Health. Cat Ordinance: No city cat ordinance exists.

Confiscation of prohibited animals. Fines $500 to $5,000. Criminal charges possible for dangerous species. Owner liable for damages from escaped animals.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping in Attleboro is subject to Board of Health regulations and state law under 330 CMR 8.00 governing apiaries. Residents should contact the Board of Health for permit requirements and any local restrictions.

Key details: Authority: Board of Health / MGL Ch. 111. State Law: 330 CMR 8.00 (apiaries). Permit: Check with Board of Health. Contact: Attleboro Board of Health.

Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: mediation then fines. State registration violation: MDAR enforcement.

The Bottom Line

Attleboro's animal ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Attleboro is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Attleboro can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.