Breed Restrictions: East Orange vs Newark

Are pit bulls legal in Essex County?

Yes. N.J.S.A. 4:19-36 prevents any New Jersey municipality or county from banning a specific breed, so all breeds are legal to own throughout Essex County.

How are dangerous dogs handled instead?

By individual behavior. Under N.J.S.A. 4:19-17 et seq., a municipal court can declare a dog potentially dangerous or vicious after an unprovoked bite and order enclosure, muzzling, and a special license.

Can my landlord restrict my dog's breed?

Yes. State preemption applies only to government rules. Private landlords and HOAs may still set breed terms in leases or bylaws.

Are pit bulls banned in Newark?

Pit bulls are not outright banned but are classified as presumptively vicious under Newark ordinance Ch. 6:1, Art. 5. Owners can rebut this designation by completing obedience training and passing a canine good citizen test. Vicious dogs must be muzzled when off-property.

What is the difference between Newark's rule and NJ state dangerous dog law?

Newark uses breed-specific criteria that presume pit bulls are vicious. NJ state law (N.J.S.A. 4:19-15.1) is behavior-based, defining dangerous dogs by unprovoked attacks or threats regardless of breed. Both laws apply in Newark.