Bergenfield vs Mahwah
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Bergenfield, NJ and Mahwah, NJ?
Bergenfield has fewer restrictions than Mahwah.
Bergenfield, NJ
Bergen County
Bergenfield requires dogs in public or on unfenced private property to be controlled by a person over 12 with a leash no longer than six feet.
View full Bergenfield rules →Mahwah, NJ
Bergen County
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.
View full Mahwah rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bergenfield | Mahwah |
|---|---|---|
| Max Leash Length | 6 feet | - |
| Handler Age | Over 12 years old | - |
| Off-Leash Area | Inside dog park only | - |
| Hours at Dog Park | Dawn to dusk | - |
| Leash required | - | Off-property at all times |
| License age | - | Over seven months |
| Rabies certificate | - | Valid through November 1 |
| Enforcement | - | Mahwah Police Department |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bergenfield FAQ
How long can my dog's leash be in Bergenfield?
No more than six feet. Retractable or longer leashes that extend beyond six feet do not comply with Bergenfield's leash ordinance, even if you are holding the dog close.
Can my child walk our dog around the neighborhood?
Only if the child is over 12 years old. The ordinance requires the person controlling the dog in public to be older than 12 and capable of physically controlling the leashed animal.
Mahwah FAQ
Can my dog be off-leash in Mahwah?
Only on your own property. Once off your property, dogs must be on a leash, otherwise they are considered running at large under Mahwah Chapter 5.
When do I need to license my dog in Mahwah?
Dogs over seven months old must be licensed annually with a rabies vaccination certificate valid through November 1 of the licensing year.
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