6 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 3 cities in Worcester County, Massachusetts.
Verified from official government sources
Chicken and livestock rules in Worcester County are municipal. Worcester permits up to 6 hens (no roosters) with a Board of Health permit. Rural towns like Hardwick, Petersham, and Barre are far more permissive. MGL c. 40A §3 protects agriculture on 5+ acre parcels.
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.
Massachusetts does not ban specific dog breeds statewide. Some municipalities have attempted BSL with mixed results. Dangerous dog provisions are behavior-based.
Beekeeping is regulated at the state level by MGL c. 128, §§35–40 and by the MA Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR). Hives must be registered with MDAR. Local bylaws may add setback requirements.
Massachusetts regulates exotic and wild animals under 321 CMR 9.01 (Division of Fisheries and Wildlife). Many species are prohibited statewide as pets. No county ordinance; state law governs.
Worcester County MA wildlife feeding is regulated under MGL c. 131, §5A, 321 CMR 3.02(3), and local bylaws. Feeding of bears, coyotes, and deer is prohibited to prevent habituation. Intentional feeding of any non-domesticated animal is restricted. MassWildlife enforces state rules; local police and animal control handle bylaw violations. Worcester County has significant bear and coyote populations making compliance critical.
3 cities in Worcester County have their own animal ordinances rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
See every category we cover for Worcester County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Worcester County Ordinance Hub →