Massachusetts dog leash laws.

◦ Summary

Massachusetts has no statewide dog leash law. Leashing rules are set by individual cities and counties, and most municipalities require dogs to be leashed in public except inside designated off-leash dog parks.

◦ Notes & gotchas

Day-to-day leashing requirements live in city or county ordinances. Before relying on this page, look up the specific code for your municipality — it's the binding rule, not state law. Most US cities require dogs to be leashed in public unless inside a designated off-leash area. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140 § 173A allows cities and towns to regulate dogs at large. Boston requires dogs to be on a leash no longer than 5 feet outside of designated Off-Leash Recreation Areas (OLRAs). Cambridge requires a Green Dog permit for off-leash use.