Mahwah vs Paramus
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Mahwah, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Mahwah and Paramus have similar restriction levels.
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 →Paramus, NJ
Bergen County
Paramus requires every dog in public to be on a leash no longer than six feet and prohibits dogs entirely from Borough-owned parks, playgrounds, and play areas.
View full Paramus rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mahwah | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| Leash required | Off-property at all times | - |
| License age | Over seven months | - |
| Rabies certificate | Valid through November 1 | - |
| Enforcement | Mahwah Police Department | - |
| Maximum leash length | - | Six feet including handgrip |
| Parks rule | - | Dogs prohibited in Borough parks |
| Minimum fine | - | Not less than $100 |
| Code reference | - | Chapter 169, Animals |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Paramus FAQ
Can I use a long retractable leash in Paramus?
No. The leash, including its handgrip, may not exceed six feet in total length whenever the dog is on a public street, sidewalk, or other public place.
Are dogs allowed in Paramus parks if leashed?
No. Borough ordinance bans dogs from any public park, playground, or play area owned by Paramus, regardless of whether the dog is leashed.
Compare other topics
See how Mahwah and Paramus compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool