Mahwah defines dogs running at large as off the owner's property and not on a leash. Dogs on nonresidential premises must be confined or leashed, and kennel or shelter dogs may not leave premises except on a leash or in a crate.
Mahwah's Chapter 5 Animal Control prohibits dogs from running at large, defined as being off the owner's property and not on a leash. No dog may remain on any nonresidential premises unless confined to a specific area or restricted by a leash. Dogs kept in kennels, pet shops, shelters, or pounds may not leave premises except on a leash or in a crate or other safe restraint. The Mahwah Township Police Department enforces these provisions, and dogs over seven months must be licensed annually with a current rabies certificate valid through November 1 each year.
Permitting a dog to run at large, failing to leash on nonresidential property, or transporting kennel dogs without a leash or crate constitute violations. Unlicensed dogs over seven months also violate the township code and may result in fines plus impoundment.
See how other cities in Bergen County handle dog leash laws.
See how Mahwah's dog leash laws rules stack up against other locations.
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