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the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Enjoying a walk with your dog on a sunny day? Don’t forget to bring your poop bags.
While the stroll may be pleasant, the cleanup isn’t—but it’s required by law in New Jersey, and for good reason. Leaving pet waste behind isn’t just inconsiderate to your neighbors — it’s a fineable offense that can also pose serious health risks to your community.
🐾 What New Jersey Law Says About Pet Waste
According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP):
“All pet owners and keepers are required to immediately and properly dispose of their pet’s solid waste deposited on any property, public or private, not owned or possessed by that person.”
Violators may face municipal fines, which vary by town:
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Franklin Lakes: Up to $1,000
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Passaic: As high as $2,000
Certain municipalities, such as Lodi, offer exceptions for service animals accompanying blind or disabled individuals. It’s a good idea to check your local ordinances for specific rules and penalties.
⚠️ Why Cleaning Up Dog Waste Is More Than a Courtesy
Beyond the unsightly mess and unpleasant odor, dog waste carries dangerous bacteria and viruses that pose a risk to:
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Other pets
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Humans
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Local water sources
According to the Englewood Health Department:
“Pet waste immediately goes into storm drains when it rains, where it travels untreated to your neighborhood stream or lake. It is also rich in nutrients that accelerate the growth of nuisance algae.”
That means your dog’s mess can affect drinking water safety, public health, and environmental quality.
🛠️ How to Properly Dispose of Dog Waste in New Jersey
To keep your community clean and safe — and avoid legal trouble — follow these pet waste removal best practices:
✅ Always carry plastic baggies when walking your dog
✅ Securely tie the bag and place it in a covered garbage can
✅ Store the bagged waste in a sealed container to prevent flies and odor
✅ Check your yard regularly, even if not required, to prevent waste buildup and disease spread
Passaic County public health officials emphasize that all waste should be removed promptly, even on your own property, for sanitation and safety.
🐶 Be a Good Neighbor and a Responsible Pet Owner
Dog ownership comes with responsibilities — and picking up after your pet is one of them. Failing to do so can result in hefty fines, public complaints, and environmental harm. But with a little effort and planning, you can help keep your town cleaner, greener, and healthier.
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I also hate it when YOUR dog PISSES on MY lawn. The law should be changed to include “Liquid waste” as well. Who the hell are you to allow your dog to urinate on my lawn? It is ridiculous. We should all follow you home and piss on your lawn.
Someone in my neighborhood picks it up and ties the bag – then drops the bag !! WTF!!
A dog used to poop on my dad’s lawn every night. Owner never picked it up.
When we finally figured out who it was, we dropped a steaming package right in their driveway.
That was the end of the pooping problem at my dad’s house.
The town owns the first few feet of grass so its fair game. HOWEVER once past that… stay off my property. Some douchbag with a long leash and an australian shephard was 20 feet onto my property
Funny that a neighbor has the ‘no poop or piss signs’ on their curb, but they let their dog do just that on other’s property