No statewide leash law

New York dog leash laws.

◦ Summary

New York has no statewide dog leash law. Leashing rules are set by individual cities and counties, and most municipalities require dogs to be leashed in public except inside designated off-leash dog parks.

◦ Notes & gotchas

Day-to-day leashing requirements live in city or county ordinances. Before relying on this page, look up the specific code for your municipality — it's the binding rule, not state law. Most US cities require dogs to be leashed in public unless inside a designated off-leash area. New York City's Health Code (Title 24, Article 161.05) requires dogs to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet in public, with off-leash permitted in designated parks during specific hours (typically 9pm–9am). The rest of the state defers to local ordinances.

Last reviewed May 2026. Not legal advice — verify with your municipality before relying on it.