Rules & Ordinances in Ridgewood
Key local ordinances and regulations. Always check with the municipal clerk for the most current rules.
Noise Ordinance
The Village of Ridgewood enforces noise regulations to maintain quality of life in residential neighborhoods.
- ●Construction noise prohibited before 7:00 AM and after 6:00 PM on weekdays
- ●Saturday construction allowed 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM only
- ●No construction noise permitted on Sundays or federal holidays
- ●Leaf blowers restricted to certain hours and seasons
- ●Amplified music and loud gatherings subject to noise limits after 10:00 PM
Source: Village of Ridgewood Code, Chapter 186
Property Maintenance
Property owners are required to maintain their properties in good condition, including lawns, structures, and sidewalks.
- ●Lawns must be maintained and grass kept under 10 inches
- ●Property owners responsible for sidewalk snow removal within 24 hours after snowfall
- ●Fences must not exceed 6 feet in rear yards and 4 feet in front yards
- ●Abandoned or inoperable vehicles must be removed from property
- ●Trees overhanging public sidewalks must be trimmed to 8 feet clearance
Source: Village of Ridgewood Code, Chapter 190
Pet Regulations
Ridgewood requires dog licensing and enforces leash laws throughout the village.
- ●All dogs over 7 months must be licensed annually with proof of rabies vaccination
- ●Dogs must be leashed on all public property
- ●Pet waste must be picked up immediately by the owner
- ●Maximum of 3 dogs and 3 cats per household
- ●No exotic or wild animals permitted as pets
Source: Village of Ridgewood Code, Chapter 76
Parking Regulations
Street parking is regulated throughout the village with specific rules for residential areas and the downtown.
- ●No overnight parking on village streets between 2:00 AM and 6:00 AM without a permit
- ●2-hour parking limit in downtown metered zones
- ●Snow emergency parking bans enforced — vehicles must be off-street
- ●Commercial vehicles over 4 tons prohibited from parking on residential streets
- ●Handicapped parking violations subject to significant fines
Source: Village of Ridgewood Code, Chapter 211
Rental Property Regulations
Rental properties in Ridgewood must be registered and inspected to ensure compliance with housing codes.
- ●Rental properties must be registered with the Village
- ●Certificate of Habitability required before occupancy of rental units
- ●Landlords must maintain properties to housing code standards
- ●Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are not permitted in residential zones
- ●Rental property inspections conducted at change of tenancy
Source: Village of Ridgewood Code, Chapter 192
Tree Preservation
Ridgewood has a strong tree preservation ordinance protecting significant trees on public and private property.
- ●Permit required to remove trees over 8 inches in diameter on private property
- ●Replacement planting may be required when trees are removed
- ●Village Shade Tree Committee oversees public tree management
- ●Damage to public trees subject to fines and restitution
Source: Village of Ridgewood Code, Chapter 217
Outdoor Dining & Sidewalk Use
Restaurants may apply for outdoor dining permits in the downtown area, subject to conditions.
- ●Outdoor dining permits issued seasonally by the Village
- ●Minimum sidewalk clearance of 5 feet must be maintained
- ●Alcohol service in outdoor areas requires separate ABC approval
- ●Furniture must be removed or secured nightly
Source: Village of Ridgewood Code, Chapter 175