Dog Leash Laws: Boston vs New York
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Boston, MA and New York, NY?
Boston has fewer restrictions than New York.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Boston requires dogs under control at all times (MGL c.140 §157). Dog licensing required through city/town clerk (MGL c.140 §155). Rabies vaccination mandatory.
View full Boston rules →New York, NY
New York County
Section 161.05 of the New York City Health Code requires every dog in any public place, or in any open or unfenced area abutting a public place, to be effectively restrained by a leash or other restraint not more than 6 feet long. Off-leash use is allowed only in designated dog runs and during NYC Parks' courtesy off-leash hours (generally park opening to 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. to park closing) where posted. Enforcement is shared by DOHMH, NYC Parks, NYPD, and DSNY.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Leash | Required in public | - |
| License | Annual, city/town clerk | - |
| State Law | MGL c.140 §§155, 157 | - |
| Rabies | Vaccination required | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
Do I have to keep my dog on a leash in Boston?
Boston requires dogs under control at all times (MGL c.140 §157). Dog licensing required through city/town clerk (MGL c.140 §155). Rabies vaccination mandatory.
What is the maximum leash length in Boston?
Leash: Required in public. License: Annual, city/town clerk. State Law: MGL c.140 §§155, 157. Rabies: Vaccination required.
New York FAQ
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