Breed Restrictions: Lowell vs Somerville
How do breed restrictions rules compare between Lowell, MA and Somerville, MA?
Lowell and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell does not ban or restrict any dog breed. Massachusetts state law MGL c.140 s.157A prohibits breed-specific legislation statewide.
View full Lowell rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville does not impose breed-specific legislation because Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140 Section 157A prohibits cities from regulating dogs based on breed.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| BSL status | Prohibited statewide by MGL c.140 s.157A | - |
| Behavior-based rules | MGL c.140 s.157 dangerous dog | - |
| Licensing | Required annually at age 6 months | - |
| Rabies vaccine | Required for license | - |
| Private restrictions | Landlords and insurers may impose | - |
| Breed ban | - | None (state preempted) |
| Governing law | - | MGL c.140 s.157A |
| Dangerous-dog law | - | MGL c.140 s.157 |
| License required at | - | 6 months, annually |
| Private rules | - | Landlords may restrict |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
Can my landlord ban pit bulls?
Yes. Private landlords and insurance companies are not bound by MGL c.140 s.157A and may restrict breeds in leases.
What makes a dog dangerous under state law?
A dog that attacks, bites, or behaves aggressively may be declared dangerous after a hearing; the owner can face muzzle and confinement orders.
Somerville FAQ
Are pit bulls banned in Somerville?
No. Massachusetts state law blocks any municipal breed ban; individual dogs are regulated based on behavior, not breed.
Can my landlord refuse certain breeds?
Yes. Private landlords and condo associations may impose breed restrictions in leases; this is separate from city ordinance.
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