Fairfax County Code Chapter 12 prohibits keeping animals in numbers or conditions that cause neglect, suffering, or unsanitary premises, with Animal Protection Police authorized to seize neglected animals and pursue cruelty charges.
Fairfax County Animal Protection Police (FXVA Animal Services) investigate hoarding complaints under Chapter 12 of the County Code and Virginia Code Section 3.2-6503 mandating adequate food, water, shelter, and veterinary care. Officers may obtain seizure warrants when animals are found in distress. Hoarding cases often involve mental-health referrals through county Health and Human Services. Convictions can result in forfeiture of animals, prohibition on future ownership, and Class 1 misdemeanor charges. Repeat or aggravated cases involving torture or death may be charged as felony cruelty under state law.
Class 1 misdemeanor cruelty: up to 12 months jail and 2,500 dollars fine; felony cruelty for severe cases; animals seized; ownership ban possible.
See how Fairfax's animal hoarding rules stack up against other locations.
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