The idea that there is a state-wide leash law in the state of New York is a common misconception.
In reality, leash laws in New York State are determined on a local level, typically in municipal ordinances.
As a result, leash laws – also known as “running at large statutes” – differ depending upon the city or municipality you are in at the time.
Do Dogs Always Have to Be On a Leash By Law in NY?
Since New York State does not have a state-wide leash law, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Instead, leash laws are determined by locality. It’s important to be familiar with the dog leash regulations in your area, as well as any areas you may visit, to ensure that your dog remains safe and you don’t unknowingly violate any leash law requirements.
What Are The Leash Laws in New York State?
Contrary to what most believe, there is a no state-wide leash law in New York. Instead NY leash laws are determined on a local level.
Because leash laws vary by local area throughout New York, it’s important to be familiar with the leash laws that apply to the area where you live, as well as the surrounding areas. Here are the leash requirements for a number of local areas throughout Upstate NY and the Capital Region.
Leash Law Requirements in Local Areas Throughout New York State
Albany Leash Laws
In Albany, dogs are required to be restrained by an adequate collar and leash and must be under the control of an owner or an individual over the age of 12 when on public property in the city of Albany.
Schenectady Leash Laws
In Schenectady, dogs must be restrained by an adequate collar and a leash that is 8 feet or less in length when they are out in public. Dogs must be accompanied by a responsible individual over the age of 12.
Troy Leash Laws
In Troy, all dogs be restrained by a leash when they are off of their owners’ premises. Dogs are only permitted to be unleashed within the city in designated areas and under certain circumstances.
Colonie Leash Laws
In Colonie, dogs must be restrained by a collar and leash eight feet or less in length. Dogs in public areas must be accompanied by their owner or by an individual older than 16 years of age who is able to control the animal.
Clifton Park Leash Laws
In Clifton Park, dogs on public property are generally prohibited from being at large. Though there are some exceptions to this rule, dogs must be under the direct supervision of the owner or another responsible person and fastened to a leash that should not exceed 25 feet in length.
Saratoga Springs Leash Laws
In Saratoga Springs, dogs must be under the control of a person when they are in public areas within the city of Saratoga Springs and must be restrained by an adequately strong leash that is six or fewer feet in length.
Even With Leash Laws in Place, Dog Bite Injuries Still Happen
Despite local measures to restrain dogs within New York State, dog bite injuries and accidents do still occur often. Both children and adults are common victims of dog bites, which can be damaging physically and emotionally. As a result, understanding local leash laws and knowing what to do in the event of a dog bite accident is very important.
If you or your loved one is injured by a dog off its leash, contacting a personal injury lawyer with experience handling dog bite cases is imperative. In the Capital Region, the personal injury attorneys at Maynard, O’Connor, Smith & Catalinotto are a top choice when it comes to providing legal assistance with dog bite cases. Each of the lawyers on our team understands the complex legal issues involved in dog bite cases and can guide you through the personal injury lawsuit process to obtain the compensation you are entitled to. You can learn more about dog bite personal injury cases and our experience handling them here.
Don’t suffer quietly after being injured by a dog off its leash. Find out how the legal team at Maynard, O’Connor, Smith & Catalinotto can help you earn the compensation you deserve after being injured as a result of someone else’s negligence.
Take the first step today. Contact us by calling (800) 721-3553 or request a free case review by submitting our easy online contact form. You can also contact us using the contact form below:
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Related Resources:
Learn more about dog bite injuries, how to prevent them, and the steps to take if you’ve been attacked by a dog:
What to Do If You Have Been Bitten or Attacked By A Dog – Learn what steps you’ll need to take after a dog attack to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
How To Prevent Dog Bite Injuries – Read easy tips for avoiding encounters with potentially dangerous dogs so you can avoid being injured by a dog bite in the first place.
Steps to Take After A Dog Bite Injury – Planning to pursue a personal injury claim after you or a loved one was injured by a dog bite? Learn what you can do to strengthen your case.
Editor’s Note: This content was originally published in 2016 but has been updated as of August 2018.
