Norfolk County, MA Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
Barking dog rules in Norfolk 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.
Key Facts
- County Rule?
- None: municipal jurisdiction
- State Authority
- MGL c. 140 §157: municipalities may declare dogs nuisances
- Who to Call
- Your town's Animal Control Officer
- Licensing
- MGL c. 140 §136A requires annual dog license in each town
Summary
Norfolk County does not regulate barking dogs at the county level. Dog noise complaints are handled by each municipality's animal control officer and police department under local bylaws.
Section 157. (a) 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;
Full Breakdown
Barking dog complaints in Norfolk County are handled at the municipal level. Each city and town has its own animal control bylaws and nuisance provisions. Under MGL c. 140 §157, municipalities may regulate dogs as nuisances, and most Norfolk County towns have animal control officers (ACOs) who respond to barking complaints. There is no county-level barking dog ordinance. Residents should contact their town's animal control officer or police non-emergency line.
Violations & Fines
No county enforcement. Local animal control officers and police handle complaints under municipal bylaws.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules about barking dogs in Norfolk County?
How do I file a noise complaint about a barking dog in Norfolk County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Norfolk County
Compare Norfolk County to another location·View the Massachusetts noise ordinances overview
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