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🐔 Animal Ordinances/Dog Leash Laws

Dog Leash Laws: Boston vs Chelsea

How do dog leash laws rules compare between Boston, MA and Chelsea, MA?

Boston and Chelsea have similar restriction levels.

Boston, MA

Suffolk County

Some Restrictions

Boston 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.

View full Boston rules →

Chelsea, MA

Suffolk County

Some Restrictions

Chelsea 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.

View full Chelsea rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactBostonChelsea
LeashRequired in publicRequired in public
LicenseAnnual, city/town clerkAnnual, city/town clerk
State LawMGL c.140 §§155, 157MGL c.140 §§155, 157
RabiesVaccination requiredVaccination required

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Boston FAQ

Do I have to keep my dog on a leash in Boston?

Boston 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.

What is the maximum leash length in Boston?

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

Chelsea FAQ

Do I have to keep my dog on a leash in Chelsea?

Chelsea 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.

What is the maximum leash length in Chelsea?

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

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