7 rules for unincorporated Bronx County, New York.
Verified from official government sources
Bronx County allows hens in NYC but roosters are banned. Coops must meet health standards. Livestock prohibited in most residential zones. NYC Health Code governs.
Dogs in The Bronx must be leashed at all times in public under NYC Health Code §161.05, with a maximum leash length of 6 feet. Off-leash hours apply only in designated Parks Department areas before 9 AM and after 9 PM. Pelham Bay Park, Van Cortlandt Park, and Crotona Park have designated off-leash zones.
NY State preempts breed-specific legislation. Agriculture & Markets Law §107 prohibits any municipality from enacting breed-specific laws. The Bronx and NYC regulate dangerous dogs by behavior only under NYC Health Code §161.07 and AG&M Law §123. NYCHA public housing maintains its own breed and weight restrictions.
Beekeeping has been legal in The Bronx since 2010 under NYC Health Code §161.01. Beekeepers must register hives annually with DOHMH at no cost. Only Apis mellifera (European honeybee) is permitted. Africanized bees and aggressive colonies must be requeened or removed.
The Bronx follows NYC Health Code §161.01, which bans an extensive list of exotic animals including ferrets, venomous snakes, all non-human primates, big cats, bears, crocodilians, and raptors. Violations carry $2,000 fines and mandatory animal seizure. The Bronx Zoo (WCS) holds a special USDA/DEC permit.
Feeding pigeons, rats, raccoons, or other wildlife in The Bronx is prohibited under NYC Health Code §161.03 and NYC Parks Rules §1-04(g). Violations carry fines up to $500. Pelham Bay Park and Van Cortlandt Park have enhanced enforcement due to wildlife populations.
NYC Health Code does not set a numerical cap on pets per household in The Bronx, but §161.02 requires conditions that prevent nuisance, disease, and odor. NYCHA and most private leases impose 1-2 dog limits. DOHMH can declare hoarding a public health nuisance.
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