Service Animal Policy & Procedures
The German Christmas Market of NJ follows the Sussex County Fairgrounds’ official service animal policy. We are committed to ensuring a welcoming and accessible environment for all our visitors. Full details regarding the guidelines and responsibilities are provided below.
Welcome & Check-In
Service animals are welcome at the German Christmas Market of NJ. Guests with service animals are encouraged to check in at our main information booths upon arrival if they require any specific maps or accessibility assistance to navigate the fairgrounds comfortably.
Definition of Service Animals
Per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a service animal is defined as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person's disability.
Please note that animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted on the fairgrounds during the event.
Accessibility & ADA Compliance
We strictly adhere to ADA requirements. Service animals are permitted to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of the market where the public is normally allowed to go. We strive to provide a safe path of travel and appropriate facilities for handlers and their animals.
Service Dog Guidelines
To ensure the safety of all guests, vendors, and animals, the following guidelines must be followed:
- Service animals must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless these devices interfere with the service animal’s work or the individual’s disability prevents using these devices.
- In cases where devices cannot be used, the individual must maintain control of the animal through voice, signal, or other effective controls.
- The animal must be under the control of the handler at all times.
Care & Supervision Responsibilities
The handler is responsible for the following:
- The care and supervision of the service animal, including providing food and water.
- Ensuring the animal is housebroken.
- Immediate and proper cleanup of any animal waste. Disposable bags should be used and placed in designated trash receptacles.
Removal of Animals
A staff member or security officer may ask an individual to remove a service animal from the premises if:
- The animal is out of control and the animal’s handler does not take effective action to control it.
- The animal is not housebroken.
If a service animal is removed, the individual with the disability shall still be welcome to remain at the German Christmas Market without the animal.