Animal Damage Regulations

There are times when wildlife causes damage to property, crops and landscaping. There are a number of options available to the landowner. In most cases, preventing access is key, but if a landowner is unable or unwilling to deal with the problem alone, other options are available. Below are regulations pertinent to wildlife damage situations:

Moving Wildlife is Against The Law (And Causes Them Harm) - Live trapping and relocating wildlife is illegal and oftentimes impractical. This link will explain the law and why this is not a viable option.

Problem Animal Control Agent Regulations - This link explains how a person may become a Problem Animal Control Agent and the conditions required to deal with nuisance wildlife.

Animal Damage Statute (Chapter 131 Section 37) - Deer nibbling your fruit trees or shrubs? Other wildlife chasing your livestock or pets? This statute gives property owners the right to use lawful means to destroy wildlife in the act of causing damage or threatening personal safety. People may only address wildlife actually causing damage or posing immediate threats and may not randomly destroy wildlife as a preventive measure.

Beavers and the Law: A Citizens Guide to Addressing Beaver Complaints - This guide will explain, step by step, how citizens can seek relief if there is a conflict with beaver or muskrat. Applications, beaver deceiver information, and guidance documents for Boards of Health and Public Works and Conservation Commissions may be found in the Beaver Information pages.