Englewood vs Garfield
How do breed restrictions rules compare between Englewood, NJ and Garfield, NJ?
Garfield has fewer restrictions than Englewood.
Englewood, NJ
Bergen County
Englewood requires special licensing and muzzling for dogs declared vicious or potentially dangerous, focusing on behavior rather than breed.
View full Englewood rules →Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
Bergen County does not impose breed-specific dog restrictions. New Jersey state law (N.J.S.A. 4:19-36) preempts municipalities and counties from enacting breed-discriminatory ordinances against pit bulls or other specific breeds.
View full Garfield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Englewood | Garfield |
|---|---|---|
| Breed bans | Not enforced | Prohibited by state law |
| Special license | Required if vicious | - |
| Muzzle | Required off-property | - |
| Standard | Behavior-based | - |
| Statute | - | N.J.S.A. 4:19-36 |
| Vicious dog law | - | Behavior-based only |
| County shelter | - | Located in Teterboro |
| Insurance for vicious dogs | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Englewood FAQ
Does Englewood ban any specific dog breeds?
No. A court struck down Englewood's breed-specific ordinance, and state law prohibits breed discrimination. Restrictions apply only to dogs individually declared vicious or potentially dangerous.
What is required if my dog is declared vicious?
You must obtain a special vicious-dog license through the City and provide a muzzle whenever the dog is on any public or private property other than your own.
Who decides if a dog is potentially dangerous?
Designation follows the New Jersey Vicious and Potentially Dangerous Dog Act process, with the Englewood Animal Control Officer initiating the case based on behavior.
Garfield FAQ
Are pit bulls legal in Bergen County?
Yes. New Jersey law prohibits any municipality or county from banning dogs by breed. Pit bulls and other breeds are fully legal throughout Bergen County.
What if my dog bites someone?
Any dog that bites or threatens may be declared potentially dangerous or vicious under state law. Owners face containment, signage, and liability insurance requirements regardless of breed.
Can my landlord still ban certain breeds?
Yes. The state preemption applies to government, not private landlords or insurers. Rental policies and homeowners insurance can still impose breed restrictions.
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