Animal Ordinances in Cambridge, MA: What Residents Actually Need to Know
If you live in Cambridge or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Cambridge has 7 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.
Exotic Pets
Cambridge prohibits exotic and wild animals as pets, following Massachusetts state law (321 CMR 9.01) which restricts dangerous species to licensed facilities.
Key details: State Regulation: 321 CMR 9.01. Banned Species: Primates, big cats, venomous, etc.. Enforcement: MassWildlife + Animal Commission. Research Exception: Licensed facilities only. Common Pets: Allowed (dogs, cats, fish, etc.).
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Cambridge actively enforces its exotic pets requirements.
Chickens & Livestock
Cambridge allows up to 6 backyard hens with a permit from the Inspectional Services Department; roosters, slaughter, and other livestock are prohibited citywide.
Key details: Hen Limit: 6 hens maximum. Roosters: Prohibited. Property Line Setback: 10 feet. Dwelling Setback: 25 feet. Slaughter: Prohibited.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Wildlife Feeding
Cambridge prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, turkeys, waterfowl, and raccoons; rodent-friendly bird feeding may also trigger violations.
Key details: Intentional Feeding: Prohibited. Bird Feeders: Allowed if clean. Rodent Ordinance Fine: Up to 300 dollars. Fresh Pond: Active enforcement zone. TNR Cats: Registered colonies only.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is one of the stricter rules in Cambridge's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Livestock
Cambridge prohibits traditional livestock (cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, horses) in all zoning districts; only urban hens and bees are allowed as agricultural animals.
Key details: Cattle/Pigs/Goats: Prohibited. Horses: Prohibited. Allowed Ag Animals: Hens + bees only. Slaughter: Prohibited citywide. Right to Farm: Does not override zoning.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is one of the stricter rules in Cambridge's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Breed Restrictions
Cambridge does not impose breed-specific restrictions; Massachusetts General Law Chapter 140 Section 157A prohibits cities from regulating dogs based on breed.
Key details: Breed Ban: None (state preempted). State Law: MGL c.140 s.157A. Dangerous Dog Rule: Behavior-based. Hearing Authority: Animal Commission. License: Annual, breed-neutral.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
The rules around breed restrictions in Cambridge lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.
Beekeeping
Cambridge permits urban beekeeping with MDAR registration under MGL c.128 s.31A; hives must meet 10-foot setbacks and include a water source and flyway barrier.
Key details: State Registration: MDAR annual (MGL c.128 s.31A). Setback: 10 feet from property line. Flyway Barrier: 6 feet, if facing neighbor. Water: On-site source required. Hive Limit: 2 (small lot) to 4 (large).
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Dog Leash Laws
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.
Key details: Leash Required: All public spaces. Max Leash Length: 8 feet. Off-Leash Areas: Danehy, Fresh Pond, Raymond. Waste Cleanup: Required, 50 dollar fine. Prohibited Areas: Playgrounds, school grounds.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is one of the stricter rules in Cambridge's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
The Bottom Line
Cambridge is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 7 rules covered here, 4 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Cambridge, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
Keep in mind that Cambridge 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.