Animals & Birds

In order to protect public health, safety, welfare, and the environment, and to avoid unnecessary public health nuisances, the Board of Health adopted the Domestic Animal and Bird Regulations under authority of Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) Chapter 111 Section 31 and Section 122.

Download a copy of the Animal and Bird Regulation (PDF).

The setback requirement for the Animal and Bird Regulation has been changed as of October 2, 2007; see the amendment to the regulation (PDF).

Further Information

For information on the Pig and Piggeries regulation, please contact the Board of Health via email or at 508-821-1400.

Farms that are registered with the state are exempt from these regulations.

For more information, please contact Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources at 617-626-1700.

View information on keeping your pet safe in the event of an emergency (PDF).

Register a Complaint

To register a complaint, please call 508-821-1400 so that your issue can be addressed in a timely manner.