Pet & Farm Animal FAQs

How many dogs am I permitted to own/keep at my personal residence?

The Board of Health Kennel Regulation defines a kennel as “An establishment or dwelling maintained and/or advertised for the purpose of breeding, selling, or engaged in training dogs, boarding dogs or producing one or more litters per year.  And, further defined as any property in which more than three dogs reside.”

Property owners who wish to own/keep more than three (3) dogs at their Mashpee residence should review our local Kennel Regulation prior to taking ownership of any dogs beyond three, and must apply for a Kennel License through the Town Clerk’s Office.  The Board of Health will be given an opportunity to review the application and make any comments/recommendations prior to signing off.

What types of poultry, equine, and livestock are permitted to be kept on residential properties?

The Board of Health has enacted local regulations relative to poultry and stables that is consistent with Mashpee Zoning By-Laws. 

Property owners who wish to keep ducks, hens or other poultry and/or water fowl should review our local Poultry Regulation prior to acquiring any poultry or water fowl, and must register with the Board of Health through the Town’s online permitting system. 

Property owners who wish to keep horses/ponies or bovine animals such as goats, donkeys, llamas, etc. should review our local Stable Regulation prior to acquiring any equine or bovine, and must apply for a Stable License through the Town’s online permitting system.  New Stable Licenses must be approved by the Board of Health at a public meeting.