Licensing Requirements - Laws and Fines
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Dog Licenses
Dog licenses are required yearly for all dogs and, unless under 6 months of age,
all dogs must wear a current license tag at all times.
Licenses expire on March 31 of each year and are available in the Clerk's office at City Hall,
Monday-Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Proof of rabies vaccination (unless under 6 months) and spaying/neutering are required. Fees are as follows:
• Neutered Males - $10.00• Spayed Females - $10.00
• Male - $25.00
• Female - $25.00
• Replacement of lost tag - $5.00
• Fine for dogs with no licenses - $50.00
Cats and Other Pets
Cats and other pets (i.e., ferrets) do not require a license; however, you must have proof of rabies vaccination.
Leash Law
All dogs must be restrained at all times. Not only is this the law, it is safer for your dog, too.
Fines may be charged for failure to comply and are as follows:
• Second offense - $75
• Third and subsequent offense - $100
Dogs that have been impounded (picked up) will be charged a boarding fee of $25/day.
"Pooper Scooper" Law
Owners or keepers of a dog are required to pick up and properly dispose of their dog's excrement
when dropped on any public place or private property
not owned or controlled by the owner or keeper.
Any owner or keeper of of a dog who violates this law will be fined $50. In other words, if it's not your property,
pick it up!
Barking or Disturbing Dogs
If a complaint is made to the Animal Control Officer regarding a nuisance dog (excessive barking or other disturbance
including unsanitary conditions or odor), the Officer is require to investigate and take action as necessary.
A first offense will receive a warning, with a fine of $50 for subsequent offenses. In the event of 5 incidents,
the Animal Control Officer may order the dog removed from the premises on a permanent basis.
To read the entire text of Attleboro town ordinances, please consult the City of Attleboro Ordinance Book. Massachusetts General Laws concerning animals are found in Chapter 140 sections 136 through 176, Chapter 266 section 47, and Chapter 272 sections 77 through 80B.