New York Leash Laws

New York has no statewide leash law. Leash and at-large rules come from cities and counties, so the answer depends on where you are.

New York leash law at a glance

What New York state law says

• Agriculture & Markets Law 122 lets municipalities regulate dogs running at large.
• Sections 120 and 121 allow confinement orders.
• Court orders for dangerous dogs can require leashing and muzzling in public (123).

Local leash ordinances

Most leash rules people run into are local. Cities and counties commonly require dogs to be on a leash off the owner's property, set maximum leash lengths, and designate off-leash dog parks. Parks, beaches and trails often post their own rules.

Staying on the right side of the law

• Keep your dog leashed in public unless you are in a posted off-leash area.
• Make sure your dog wears a current license and rabies tag, since a loose dog without tags is the one most likely to be impounded.
• If your dog has been declared dangerous, stricter leash, muzzle and enclosure rules apply; see the dangerous dog section of New York dog bite laws.
• A dog that runs loose and injures someone can create liability for the owner, so a leash is also your best protection.
• Leash training makes compliance easy; a local dog trainer can help with pulling and recall.

Sources

1. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: New York dog laws
2. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: State dog leash laws