New York County, NY Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

New York City Health Code section 161.05 requires every dog in a public place in Manhattan to be restrained by a leash of not more than 6 feet in length, held by a person able to control the animal. This applies on all sidewalks, streets, subway platforms where dogs are allowed, and within parks except during designated off leash hours. The NYC Parks Department operates the Courtesy Hours off leash program in Central Park, Riverside Park, Inwood Hill Park, Fort Tryon Park, and several smaller Manhattan parks, allowing dogs off leash in designated areas from park opening (usually 6 AM) until 9 AM, and from 9 PM until park closing (1 AM). Outside those hours and areas, a leash is mandatory. Dog runs at spots like Washington Square Park, Tompkins Square Park, Madison Square Park, Carl Schurz, and Riverside Park Dog Run allow off leash play within fenced enclosures at any time. NYC Health Code 161.04 additionally requires licensing and rabies vaccination, and 161.03 mandates that owners curb and clean up after their dog. First offense leash violations carry a 100 dollar summons, escalating to 250 dollars.