Jackson, NJ Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Article II of Chapter 98, adopted December 5, 1972 by Ordinance No. 18-72 and amended through 2020, makes restraint mandatory for every dog in Jackson Township. Section 98-9 flatly bans dogs running at large at any time, and § 98-8 defines RESTRAINT as a dog secured by a leash or lead, or under the control of a responsible person and obedient to that person's command, within the real property limits of its owner. Off that owner's property, § 98-10 requires a leash no longer than six feet, held by a person at least 12 years old who is strong enough to control the dog, in every Township park, sports field, playground and hiking trail; dogs may never be loose on sports fields or in buildings under § 98-10B.

Section 98-10C bars unleashed dogs from public streets and public places altogether, with narrow exceptions: dogs inside a designated off-leash area authorized by Township Council resolution or covered by a Recreation Department park-use permit for training, exhibition or competition; dogs at the Township's Johnson Park and Gil Putnam Memorial Park dog parks under posted rules available at the Clerk's office; service, guide or Seeing Eye dogs; dogs assisting police in law enforcement duties, training or search-and-rescue operations; and dogs on enclosed private property with the owner's consent.

The Animal Control Officer, an employee of the Department of Public Works, enforces restraint violations and may impound a dog found at large in lieu of, or in addition to, issuing a summons under § 98-24, which sets a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to 90 days, or both, plus up to 60 days of community service, at the Municipal Court Judge's discretion.