Massachusetts Statewide Rule

Massachusetts Prohibits Breed-Specific Dog Restrictions

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts state law expressly preempts municipalities from regulating dogs based on breed. Local breed-specific bans are void under state statute.

Key Facts

Statute: M.G.L. c. 140 §157
Effective: October 31, 2012
Preemption: Total breed-ban preemption
Standard: Individual behavior only

Source: Massachusetts General Court

Full Breakdown

M.G.L. Chapter 140 Section 157 was amended in 2012 to prohibit municipalities from regulating dogs in a manner that is specific to breed. No city or town may declare a dog dangerous solely because of its breed. Dangerous dog determinations must be made based on individual behavior. This preemption is absolute statewide, voiding any pre-existing local breed bans.

Violations & Penalties

Local breed-specific ordinances are unenforceable. Municipalities enforcing breed bans face legal challenges and statutory invalidation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Massachusetts cities ban pit bulls or other specific breeds?

No. Since 2012, M.G.L. c. 140 §157 prohibits any Massachusetts municipality from regulating dogs based on breed. Local breed bans are void.

How are dangerous dogs handled in Massachusetts?

Dangerous dog hearings must be based on the individual dog's specific behavior, not breed. Hearing officers evaluate bite history and threat level case-by-case.

Sources

M.G.L. Chapter 140 Section 157

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Massachusetts cities ban pit bulls or other specific breeds?

No. Since 2012, M.G.L. c. 140 §157 prohibits any Massachusetts municipality from regulating dogs based on breed. Local breed bans are void.

How are dangerous dogs handled in Massachusetts?

Dangerous dog hearings must be based on the individual dog's specific behavior, not breed. Hearing officers evaluate bite history and threat level case-by-case.