Boston, MA Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
Barking dog rules in Boston, 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.
Key Facts
- Complaint Line
- Boston 311
- Noise Standard
- BMC 16-26 decibel limits
- State Law
- MGL c. 140 Section 157
- Fine
- $50-$300
Summary
Boston regulates barking dogs under its general noise ordinance and state nuisance law. Persistent barking exceeding decibel thresholds can result in fines and animal control intervention.
Any person may file a complaint in writing to the hearing authority that a dog owned or kept in the city or town is a nuisance dog or a dangerous dog; provided, however, that no dog shall be deemed dangerous: (i) solely based upon growling or barking or solely growling and barking; (ii) based upon the breed of the dog... If the hearing authority deems a dog a nuisance dog, the hearing authority may further order that the owner or keeper of the dog take remedial action to ameliorate the cause of the nuisance behavior.
Full Breakdown
Barking dogs fall under BMC 16-26 unreasonable noise provisions when they exceed 50 dB at night or 70 dB during the day at the property line. Complaints are filed with Boston Animal Control through the 311 system. State law MGL c. 140 Section 157 allows cities to declare dogs a nuisance. The Boston Public Health Commission can order abatement. Chronic offenders may face dangerous dog proceedings under MGL c. 140 Section 157.
Violations & Fines
Noise violations follow standard BMC 16-26 fines of $50-$300. Nuisance dog determinations can lead to restrictions, required confinement, or removal under state law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules about barking dogs in Boston?
How do I file a noise complaint about a barking dog in Boston?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Boston
Compare Boston to another location·View the Massachusetts noise ordinances overview
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Barking Dogs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle barking dogs.