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

All dogs in Queens County must be on a leash not exceeding 6 feet in length whenever in public, per NYC Health Code Section 161.05. The leash rule applies on all streets, sidewalks, buildings (including apartment hallways), and most public spaces. Exceptions include designated off-leash hours in NYC parks, generally 9:00 PM to 9:00 AM, in over 80 parks across the five boroughs. Queens parks with official off-leash areas or hours include Astoria Park, Forest Park, Juniper Valley Park, Kissena Park, Cunningham Park, and Alley Pond Park. Dogs must still be licensed (DOHMH, Health Code 161.04), rabies-vaccinated, and under the control of a person who can restrain them during off-leash periods. Waste cleanup is mandatory under the Pooper-Scooper Law (NYC Admin Code 1310). Violations bring fines from 100 dollars for leash/license violations up to 250 dollars for waste violations; repeat offenses higher. Dogs are prohibited from playgrounds, beaches during season, and certain Parks Dept areas. Enforcement by NYPD, Parks Enforcement Patrol (PEP), and DOHMH.