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🐔 Animal Ordinances/Dog Leash Laws

Dog Leash Laws: Oxford vs Worcester

How do dog leash laws rules compare between Oxford, MA and Worcester, MA?

Oxford has fewer restrictions than Worcester.

Oxford, MA

Worcester County

Some Restrictions

Worcester County 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.

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Worcester, MA

Worcester County

Heavy Restrictions

Worcester requires dogs to be leashed or under control of the owner at all times when off the owner's property under city ordinance and MGL Chapter 140. Dogs running at large may be impounded.

View full Worcester rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactOxfordWorcester
LeashRequired in publicRequired off property
LicenseAnnual, city/town clerkAnnual, 6+ months
State LawMGL c.140 §§155, 157MGL Ch. 140
RabiesVaccination requiredVaccination required
At Large Fine-$50 first, $100 repeat

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Oxford FAQ

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

Worcester County 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 Worcester County?

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

Worcester FAQ

Do dogs have to be on a leash in Worcester?

Yes. Dogs must be leashed or under direct control when off the owner's property. Designated off-leash areas in city parks are the exception.

Where do I license my dog in Worcester?

Dog licenses are obtained through the city clerk's office. You need proof of current rabies vaccination.

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