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🐔 Animal Ordinances/Breed Restrictions

Fair Lawn vs Garfield

How do breed restrictions rules compare between Fair Lawn, NJ and Garfield, NJ?

Fair Lawn and Garfield have similar restriction levels.

Fair Lawn, NJ

Bergen County

Few Restrictions

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 Fair Lawn rules →

Garfield, NJ

Bergen County

Few Restrictions

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

FactFair LawnGarfield
Breed bansProhibited by state lawProhibited by state law
StatuteN.J.S.A. 4:19-36N.J.S.A. 4:19-36
Vicious dog lawBehavior-based onlyBehavior-based only
County shelterLocated in TeterboroLocated in Teterboro
Insurance for vicious dogsRequiredRequired

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Fair Lawn 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.

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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