If you’re a pet owner in New Jersey, you must follow certain laws when it comes to keeping your pet outside. Leaving your dog or any pet tied up in your backyard for long periods—especially in bad weather—can be illegal and even considered animal cruelty.
Since the “Pet Safety Act” was passed in 2017, the state has made strict rules to protect pets from being left outside in unsafe conditions. Let’s look at what the law says.
Rules for Tethering Pets in New Jersey
Not Allowed in Bad Weather
In New Jersey, you cannot leave your pet tied up outside for more than 30 minutes when the temperature is either too hot (over 90°F) or too cold (below 32°F). This also applies during heavy rain, snow, or strong winds. If you do, you could be breaking the law.
Must Have Shelter and Clean Water
If your pet is going to stay tied up outside for more than 30 minutes, it must have a proper shelter and clean drinking water. The shelter should have enough space, airflow, and protection from heat, rain, and cold. The water must be clean and not frozen.
Safe and Comfortable Tether
The tether (rope or chain) must be safe. It should be either 15 feet long or five times the length of your pet—whichever is longer. The tether must not be too heavy, must not drag on the ground, and should not cause pain or harm. It must also allow the pet to move around freely without getting tangled or choked.
Time Limits for Tethering
Pets cannot be left chained outside between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Also, pets that are very young (under 4 months old), sick, injured, or nursing are not allowed to be tethered outside at all.
Type of Collar Matters
Only safe, properly fitted collars or harnesses are allowed for tethering. Choke chains, prong collars, or any tight or painful attachments are not legal.
One Dog per Tether
You can’t tie more than one dog to the same tether. Each dog must have its own safe and separate tether.
What Happens If You Break the Law?
If you don’t follow these rules, you can be fined up to $3,000, get a warning, or even face jail time. Authorities can also remove your pet if they believe it’s in danger. Both police officers and humane law enforcement officers have the right to take action.
Some Towns Have Stricter Rules
Different towns or cities in New Jersey may have their own rules, which can be even stricter. For example, some local areas may limit how long you can tether your pet or have more detailed rules about shelter. So it’s always a good idea to check with your local government too.
In short, yes, it is illegal to leave your pet chained outside in New Jersey if the conditions are unsafe. The law clearly states how, when, and where pets can be tethered. The main aim is to keep animals safe and healthy.
As a responsible pet owner, always provide your pet with enough shelter, clean water, and a safe environment—especially during extreme weather. Ignoring these laws can lead to serious legal trouble and may even cost you your pet.
[1] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/07/27/is-it-illegal-to-leave-your-pet-chained-outside-in-new-jersey-heres-what-the-law-says/
[2] https://whyy.org/articles/its-now-illegal-in-new-jersey-to-leave-your-pet-outside-in-extreme-temperatures/
[3] https://njsbf.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Animal-Law.pdf
