Animal Ordinances in Paramus, NJ: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Paramus or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Paramus has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

Dog Leash Laws

Paramus requires every dog in public to be on a leash no longer than six feet and prohibits dogs entirely from Borough-owned parks, playgrounds, and play areas.

Key details: Maximum leash length: Six feet including handgrip. Parks rule: Dogs prohibited in Borough parks. Minimum fine: Not less than $100. Code reference: Chapter 169, Animals.

Walking a dog off-leash, using a leash longer than six feet, bringing a dog into a Borough park or playground, or failing to clean up after the dog all trigger enforcement.

Chickens & Livestock

Paramus regulates the keeping of poultry and livestock through Board of Health rules requiring substantial setbacks from any building used by humans for dwelling or business.

Key details: Poultry setback: 50 feet from buildings. Sheep/goat setback: 100 feet from buildings. Coop cleaning: At least weekly. Inspection: Open to Board of Health.

Keeping poultry within 50 feet of a home, housing goats within 100 feet of an occupied building, or maintaining unsanitary or uninspectable coops violates the ordinance.

Wildlife Feeding

Paramus prohibits placing food intended or suitable for wild or stray animals on any public or private property, with escalating civil penalties for repeat violations.

Key details: First offense: $125 civil penalty. Second offense: $250 civil penalty. Subsequent offenses: $350 each. Allowed exception: Enclosed elevated bird feeders.

Leaving food on the ground for stray cats, deer, or raccoons, scattering corn for waterfowl, or operating non-enclosed ground-level feeding stations all violate the ordinance.

The Bottom Line

Paramus's animal ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Paramus is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Paramus's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.