Essex County, NJ Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

No person shall bring a domestic animal into a County park or property unless the animal is restrained by a leash, tether, cage, or other restraint, with the exception of dogs in a designated off-leash area under the control of the owner.

(2) Domestic animals are strictly prohibited on playgrounds, athletic courts, and fenced playfield areas at all times.

(3) Persons bringing domestic animals into a County park or property are personally responsible for removing and properly disposing of any solid waste deposited by the animal.

(4) Any animal deemed by a County employee or authorized representative to be posing a threat or nuisance to other visitors or destroying a County park or property will be required to leave the premises immediately.

(5) Dogs and domestic animals are prohibited inside County park or property buildings and/or indoor facilities at all times unless specifically permitted or authorized by the Director. The Director reserves the authority to prohibit domestic animals entirely from any County park or property. Exception is made for service animals.

(6) Dogs must be restrained by a maximum leash length of six feet except in designated off-leash areas.

(7) Two-dog limit per person.

(8) Dogs must have valid license tags and have up-to-date vaccinations pursuant to state and local laws and regulations.

B.