Taunton's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Taunton, 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.

Breed Restrictions

Taunton does not impose breed-specific legislation. The city enforces dangerous dog provisions under state law MGL Ch. 140. The Animal Shelter Advisory Commission assists with animal welfare policy. Dogs classified as dangerous must be restrained and muzzled.

Key details: Breed Bans: None — no BSL. Dangerous Dog: MGL Ch. 140 provisions apply. Advisory Commission: Animal Shelter Advisory Commission. Enforcement: Animal Control Officer.

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

Dog Leash Laws

Taunton's Chapter 191 requires all dogs to be on a leash of 6 feet or less when off the owner's premises. Dogs must not run at large. A physical or invisible fence sufficient to contain dogs is required on the property. Annual licensing is required once a dog is 6 months old (April 1–March 31 cycle).

Key details: Leash Length: 6 feet maximum. License Period: April 1–March 31 annually. Minimum Age: License required at 6 months. Fence Required: Physical or invisible fence.

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

Compared to other cities, Taunton takes a harder line on dog leash laws. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Exotic Pets

Taunton regulates animal keeping through its Board of Health Domestic Animal and Bird Regulations. Massachusetts restricts exotic animal possession under MGL Ch. 131 §23 and 321 CMR 9.01, which lists prohibited species.

Key details: Local Authority: Board of Health regulations. State Law: MGL Ch. 131 §23 / 321 CMR 9.01. Prohibited Species: Listed in 321 CMR 9.01. Contact: Taunton Board of Health.

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

Beekeeping

Taunton's Board of Health regulates animal and bird keeping under Domestic Animal and Bird Regulations adopted per MGL Ch. 111 §31 and §122. Beekeeping is subject to Board of Health approval and state regulations under 330 CMR 8.00.

Key details: Authority: Board of Health — MGL Ch. 111 §31/§122. Regulation: Domestic Animal and Bird Regulations. State Law: 330 CMR 8.00 (apiaries). Contact: Taunton Board of Health.

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

The Bottom Line

Taunton'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 Taunton is broadly strict or permissive.

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