Dog Leash Laws: Buffalo vs Clarence

Where can I legally let my dog off leash in Buffalo?

Only at designated off-leash areas in Delaware Park (Ring Road) and LaSalle Park.

Is a retractable leash legal?

Only if locked at 6 feet or shorter. Longer extensions violate Chapter 341.

Does Erie County, NY have a county-wide leash law?

No. Erie County does not maintain a single county-wide leash ordinance. Leash and at-large rules are set by each town, city, or village (for example, Amherst, Cheektowaga, Tonawanda, Buffalo) under the authority of NY Agriculture & Markets Law §117. Outside the home, dogs must be under the owner's control.

Where do I get a dog license in Erie County?

Dog licenses are issued by your town, city, or village clerk — not by the county. New York Agriculture & Markets Law §109 requires every dog over four months of age to be licensed, with discounted fees for spayed or neutered animals.

I was bitten by a dog in Erie County. Who do I call?

Call the Erie County Department of Health Rabies Program immediately at (716) 961-6800 during business hours or (716) 961-7898 after hours. ECDOH coordinates the 10-day observation of the animal and any rabies post-exposure prophylaxis required under NY Public Health Law §2145.

Is my dog required to be vaccinated against rabies in Erie County?

Yes. NY Public Health Law §2145 and 10 NYCRR Part 2 require rabies vaccination for all dogs, cats, and ferrets over four months of age. ECDOH hosts free drive-thru rabies clinics in January, May, and September.