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🐔 Animal Ordinances/Dog Leash Laws

Bergenfield vs Ridgewood

How do dog leash laws rules compare between Bergenfield, NJ and Ridgewood, NJ?

Bergenfield has fewer restrictions than Ridgewood.

Bergenfield, NJ

Bergen County

Few Restrictions

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 →

Ridgewood, NJ

Bergen County

Heavy Restrictions

Ridgewood prohibits dogs from running at large; loose dogs are impounded, owners are notified, and unredeemed dogs may be disposed of after seven days.

View full Ridgewood rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactBergenfieldRidgewood
Max Leash Length6 feet-
Handler AgeOver 12 years old-
Off-Leash AreaInside dog park only-
Hours at Dog ParkDawn to dusk-
At-large-Prohibited
Redemption window-Seven days
License age-Seven months
Vicious at-large-May be destroyed

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.

Ridgewood FAQ

What happens if my dog gets loose in Ridgewood?

Animal control will impound the dog. If it has a current license tag, you will be notified and have seven days to reclaim it before further action is taken.

Do I need to license my dog in Ridgewood?

Yes. Any dog seven months or older, or with permanent teeth, must be licensed, and applications must be filed within ten days of acquiring the dog.

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