Barking dog rules in Bristol County, MA — also called nuisance dog, dog noise, or excessive barking ordinances — define when a barking dog becomes a code violation and how complaints are handled.
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.
Bristol County animal control addresses barking complaints when dogs bark excessively or continuously. Dog licensing is required through the town/city clerk per MGL c.140 §155. Dogs must be under control at all times (MGL c.140 §157). Residents should document incidents with dates, times, and recordings. Complaints are handled by the animal control officer. Persistent cases may proceed to hearing. MGL c.140 §157 allows selectmen/mayor to order restraint of nuisance dogs.
Warning first. Municipal fines $25 to $300. Selectman/mayor may order restraint. Court-ordered remediation possible.
Bristol County, MA
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See how Bristol County's barking dogs rules stack up against other locations.
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