Bristol County, MA Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
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.
Key Facts
- State Law
- MGL Ch. 140 §157 (nuisance dogs)
- Authority
- Town animal control officers
- Process
- Complaint-based enforcement
- License Required
- Annual dog license (MGL Ch. 140 §137)
Summary
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.
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; or (iii) if the dog was reacting to another animal or to a person and the dog's reaction was not grossly disproportionate to any of the following circumstances: (1) the dog was protecting or defending itself, its offspring, another domestic animal or a person from attack or assault; (2) the person who was attacked or threatened by the dog was committing a crime upon the person or property of the owner or keeper of the dog; (3) the person attacked or threatened by the dog was engaged in teasing, tormenting, battering, assaulting, injuring or otherwise provoking the dog; o
Full Breakdown
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules about barking dogs in Bristol County?
How do I file a noise complaint about a barking dog in Bristol County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bristol County
Compare Bristol County to another location·View the Massachusetts noise ordinances overview
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