Animal Ordinances in Revere, MA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Revere or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Revere has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

Dog Leash Laws

Revere requires dogs under control at all times (MGL c.140 §157). Dog licensing required through city/town clerk (MGL c.140 §155). Rabies vaccination mandatory.

Key details: Leash: Required in public. License: Annual, city/town clerk. State Law: MGL c.140 §§155, 157. Rabies: Vaccination required.

Dog at large: $25 to $100. Unlicensed dog: $50 to $100 + late fee. Failure to clean up: $25 to $100. Dangerous dog: significant penalties.

Exotic Pets

Exotic pets in Massachusetts regulated under 321 CMR 9.01. Most wild animals prohibited without a license; MassWildlife does NOT issue personal pet licenses. Exempt species include hedgehogs, chinchillas, sugar gliders, and certain reptiles.

Key details: State Law: 321 CMR 9.01 — exemption list system. Prohibited: Most wild animals without license. No Permits: MassWildlife does not issue pet permits. Exempt: Hedgehogs, chinchillas, sugar gliders, some reptiles.

Unlawfully possessed animals subject to seizure. Criminal penalties under MGL c. 131 Section 23.

This is one of the stricter rules in Revere's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping governed by MGL c. 128 §§32–36 (state apiary inspection program). Local Board of Health rules may restrict beekeeping in Revere's dense urban areas. No published Revere-specific beekeeping ordinance found.

Key details: State Law: MGL c. 128 §§32–36 (MDAR apiary inspection). Local Rules: Board of Health may restrict in dense areas. Registration: State MDAR inspection required. Contact: Revere Board of Health for local rules.

Unregistered hives violate state apiary requirements. Local zoning violations subject to code enforcement.

Breed Restrictions

Massachusetts does not ban specific dog breeds statewide. Some municipalities have attempted BSL with mixed results. Dangerous dog provisions are behavior-based.

Key details: State Breed Ban: None. Dangerous Dogs: Behavior-based. State Law: MGL c.140 §157. Local BSL: Some attempts, mixed results.

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

The Bottom Line

Revere'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 Revere is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Revere's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.