Garfield vs Mahwah
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Mahwah, NJ?
Garfield has fewer restrictions than Mahwah.
Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
Garfield prohibits owners from letting any animal run at large; dogs must be on a leash and under physical control of a capable handler.
View full Garfield rules →Mahwah, NJ
Bergen County
Mahwah defines dogs running at large as off the owner's property and not on a leash. Dogs on nonresidential premises must be confined or leashed, and kennel or shelter dogs may not leave premises except on a leash or in a crate.
View full Mahwah rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Mahwah |
|---|---|---|
| Leash Required | Yes, in public | - |
| Handler Requirement | Physically able to control | - |
| Impoundment | By Animal Control Officer | - |
| Costs | Owner pays impound fees | - |
| Leash required | - | Off-property at all times |
| License age | - | Over seven months |
| Rabies certificate | - | Valid through November 1 |
| Enforcement | - | Mahwah Police Department |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Garfield FAQ
Can my dog be off-leash in Garfield parks or sidewalks?
No. Dogs must be on a leash and held by a person physically capable of controlling them; otherwise the dog is considered running at large under city code.
What happens if my dog is impounded in Garfield?
The Certified Animal Control Officer may apprehend and impound the animal, and the owner is responsible for impoundment fees set in the city's animal control fee schedule.
Mahwah FAQ
Can my dog be off-leash in Mahwah?
Only on your own property. Once off your property, dogs must be on a leash, otherwise they are considered running at large under Mahwah Chapter 5.
When do I need to license my dog in Mahwah?
Dogs over seven months old must be licensed annually with a rabies vaccination certificate valid through November 1 of the licensing year.
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