Animal Control

The primary function of the Animal Control Division is to enforce the City Of Lawrence by-laws and the Massachusetts General Laws as they relate to animal issues. Some other duties of Animal Control include:

  • Barking complaints
  • Barn inspections
  • Bite investigations
  • Cruelty investigations
  • Licensing and vaccination enforcement
  • Picking up stray dogs
  • Quarantines

Many of these duties require the officer be out of the office frequently.

Lawrence Pet Regulations

No more than four domestic pets, including dogs, cats, birds, and other similar domesticated animals shall be permitted on any one lot.

Contact Details

To reach the Animal Control Officer, please call 978-794-5856 and leave a detailed message. Your call will be returned as soon as possible. Our phone accepts voicemail 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you are calling to report a loose dog, please call the Lawrence Police 978-794-5900 and the Animal Control Officer will be radio dispatched.

Animal Control hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Any after hour / weekend / holiday needs please contact the Police Station 978-794-5900, ext. 500.

Merrimack River feline rescue society website
Missing Dogs Massachusetts website
Massachusetts SPCA