Massachusetts Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

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Quick Summary

Massachusetts requires kennel licenses for facilities that breed, board, train, or keep dogs, including home-based operations with more than four dogs. Ollie's Law, which took effect in December 2024, strengthened standards for commercial breeder kennels. Licenses are issued at the city or town level, with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) providing state oversight.

License Required Yes
Annual Fee Set by municipality
Threshold 4+ dogs (3 months+) or any commercial breeding
Inspections Before licensing and at each renewal
Governing Body Municipal authorities; MDAR (state oversight)

Regulatory Agency: Municipal licensing authorities; Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR)

Who Needs a License in Massachusetts?

You need a kennel license in Massachusetts if you keep more than four dogs that are three months old or older, or if you breed dogs for sale. Under MGL Chapter 140, Section 137A, a 'personal kennel' is a collection of more than four dogs kept for private personal use, while a 'commercial breeder kennel' is one that breeds animals for sale to wholesalers, brokers, or pet shops. Both types need a kennel license from their city or town. Ollie's Law (effective December 2024) added stricter requirements for commercial breeder kennels.

How to Apply

Apply for a kennel license through your city or town clerk's office. You will need to provide information about the number of dogs, the purpose of the kennel (breeding, boarding, etc.), and the location. Your kennel must pass an inspection by a local animal control officer before the license can be issued. The municipality sets the license period and fee. All commercial breeder kennels must also comply with Ollie's Law requirements.

Fees and Costs

Kennel license fees are set by each city or town, so costs vary across Massachusetts. The municipality decides the fee amount and the period the license covers. Dogs under three months old are not counted when figuring the fee. Contact your local town or city clerk for the exact cost.

Inspections and Compliance

All kennels must pass an inspection by a local animal control officer before a license is issued and again at each renewal. Inspectors check that dogs have valid licenses and rabies tags, and that the facility meets health and safety standards. Under Ollie's Law, commercial breeder kennels face additional inspection requirements. MDAR also has the authority to assist with enforcement at the state level.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Licensed kennels must keep records of all dogs on the premises, including individual licenses, rabies vaccination records, and the maximum number of dogs allowed under the kennel license. Municipalities must report their licensed kennels to MDAR. Commercial breeders should maintain breeding records, sales documentation, and health histories for each dog.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violating the kennel licensing law in Massachusetts results in a fine of $500 for a first offense and up to $1,000 for a second or later offense. The licensing authority can also suspend or revoke your license. Operating without a license can lead to additional enforcement action. Under Ollie's Law, MDAR can assist municipalities with enforcement of commercial breeder kennel standards.

Sources and References

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