Barking Dogs: New Bedford vs Somerset
How do barking dogs rules compare between New Bedford, MA and Somerset, MA?
Somerset has fewer restrictions than New Bedford.
New Bedford, MA
Bristol County
New Bedford declares habitual barking dogs a public nuisance under the city ordinance. The keeping of any dog which by habitual howling, yelping, barking or other noise disturbs any considerable number of persons is unlawful. Three confirmed complaints in a calendar year result in a $100 fine.
View full New Bedford rules →Somerset, MA
Bristol County
Barking dog enforcement in Bristol County falls to individual town animal control officers and police departments under MGL Ch. 140 §157. Dogs deemed a nuisance due to habitual barking may be subject to municipal fines. Each town sets its own fine structure.
View full Somerset rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New Bedford | Somerset |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Habitual barking declared public nuisance | - |
| Threshold | 3 confirmed complaints per calendar year | - |
| Fine | $100 after 3 complaints | - |
| Enforcement | Animal Control Division (508-991-6366) | - |
| State Law | - | MGL Ch. 140 §157 (nuisance dogs) |
| Authority | - | Town animal control officers |
| Process | - | Complaint-based enforcement |
| License Required | - | Annual dog license (MGL Ch. 140 §137) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
New Bedford FAQ
What are the rules about barking dogs in New Bedford?
New Bedford declares habitual barking dogs a public nuisance under the city ordinance. The keeping of any dog which by habitual howling, yelping, barking or other noise disturbs any considerable number of persons is unlawful. Three confirmed complaints in a calendar year result in a $100 fine.
How do I file a noise complaint about a barking dog in New Bedford?
Standard: Habitual barking declared public nuisance. Threshold: 3 confirmed complaints per calendar year. Fine: $100 after 3 complaints. Enforcement: Animal Control Division (508-991-6366).
Somerset FAQ
What are the rules about barking dogs in Bristol County?
Barking dog enforcement in Bristol County falls to individual town animal control officers and police departments under MGL Ch. 140 §157. Dogs deemed a nuisance due to habitual barking may be subject to municipal fines. Each town sets its own fine structure.
How do I file a noise complaint about a barking dog in Bristol County?
State Law: MGL Ch. 140 §157 (nuisance dogs). Authority: Town animal control officers. Process: Complaint-based enforcement. License Required: Annual dog license (MGL Ch. 140 §137).
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