Rules & Ordinances in Tenafly
Key local ordinances and regulations. Always check with the municipal clerk for the most current rules.
Noise Ordinance
Tenafly enforces noise regulations to preserve the residential character of the borough with specific quiet hours.
- ●Quiet hours: 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekdays, 10:00 PM to 9:00 AM on weekends
- ●Construction limited to 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM weekdays, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturdays
- ●No construction on Sundays or holidays
- ●Gas-powered leaf blowers prohibited during certain months (seasonal restrictions)
- ●Amplified music and sound systems must comply with decibel limits
Source: Borough of Tenafly Code, Chapter 261
Property Maintenance
Property owners must maintain structures and grounds in compliance with borough standards.
- ●Lawns must be maintained and not exceed 10 inches in height
- ●Properties must be kept free of debris, junk, and abandoned vehicles
- ●Exterior structures must be maintained in good repair and appearance
- ●Snow and ice must be cleared from sidewalks within a reasonable time after a storm
- ●Swimming pools must have proper fencing and safety barriers
Source: Borough of Tenafly Property Maintenance Code
Pet & Animal Regulations
Dogs and cats must be licensed and vaccinated. Leash laws are strictly enforced.
- ●All dogs must be licensed annually with proof of rabies vaccination
- ●Dogs must be on a leash at all times when off the owner's property
- ●Pet waste must be immediately cleaned up on public and private property
- ●No more than 3 dogs per household
- ●Excessive barking complaints are investigated by Animal Control
- ●Cats should be vaccinated against rabies
Source: Borough of Tenafly Code, Animals Chapter
Parking Regulations
Parking is regulated throughout the borough with restrictions on overnight parking and specific zones in the downtown area.
- ●No overnight street parking between 2:00 AM and 6:00 AM
- ●Metered parking enforced in the downtown business district
- ●Commuter parking by permit only in designated lots
- ●No commercial vehicle parking on residential streets
- ●Snow emergency parking bans may be declared during storms
Source: Borough of Tenafly Traffic Code
Rental Property Regulations
Rental properties must comply with housing codes and landlords are subject to registration requirements.
- ●Rental units must meet all housing and building code standards
- ●Landlords may need to register rental properties with the borough
- ●Certificate of Occupancy or Habitability inspection at change of tenancy
- ●Multi-family housing limited to specifically zoned areas
- ●Short-term rental regulations may apply
Source: Borough of Tenafly Housing Code
Tree Preservation
Tenafly has strict tree preservation ordinances to protect the borough's tree canopy.
- ●A permit is required to remove any tree over 6 inches in diameter at breast height
- ●Replacement planting may be required when trees are removed
- ●Protected species include oaks, maples, and other native hardwoods
- ●Tree damage during construction is subject to penalties
- ●The Shade Tree Commission reviews applications and advises on tree matters
Source: Borough of Tenafly Code, Trees Chapter
Fence and Wall Regulations
Fences and walls are regulated for height, location, and appearance.
- ●Front yard fences limited to 4 feet in height
- ●Side and rear yard fences limited to 6 feet
- ●Permits required for all new fences
- ●Deer fencing may be permitted up to 8 feet with approval
- ●The finished side of the fence must face the neighboring property
Source: Borough of Tenafly Zoning Code