How Springfield Handles Animal Ordinances: A Practical Guide

Springfield maintains 101 local ordinances across all categories, and 6 of those deal specifically with animal ordinances. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Springfield falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Chickens & Livestock

Springfield regulates backyard chickens through zoning bylaws. Many suburban MA communities restrict poultry. Rural towns more permissive.

Key details: Hens: 6 to 12 where allowed. Roosters: Usually prohibited. Right to Farm: Protects ag in designated areas. Livestock: Agricultural zones only.

Unauthorized livestock: removal order. Nuisance: $50 to $500/day. Board of health enforcement for sanitary violations.

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.

Dog Leash Laws

Springfield 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.

Beekeeping

Springfield may allow residential beekeeping. MA requires registration with the Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) per MGL c.128 §32A.

Key details: Hives: Typically 2 to 4 residential. Registration: MDAR required. State Law: MGL c.128 §32A. Setback: Varies by municipality.

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

Exotic Pets

Springfield restricts ownership of exotic and wild animals. Many species require special permits or are prohibited entirely for public safety.

Key details: Large Cats: Generally prohibited. Primates: Generally prohibited. Permits: Required for some species. Insurance: May be required.

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

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

Wildlife Feeding

Springfield restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisance conditions.

Key details: Prohibited: Deer, coyotes, bears. Bird Feeders: May be restricted. Pet Food: Must not be left outside. Fines: $50 to $500.

Warnings for first offense. Fines typically $50 to $500. Repeat violations may result in misdemeanor charges in some jurisdictions.

The Bottom Line

Springfield'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 Springfield is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Springfield's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.