Richmond has no breed-specific legislation. Virginia Code 3.2-6540.1 preempts cities from enacting breed-based restrictions; dangerous dog determinations must be behavior-based.
Virginia Code Section 3.2-6540.1 prohibits Virginia localities from adopting ordinances specific to any breed of dog. Richmond accordingly regulates dangerous and vicious dogs based on individual behavior under Virginia Code 3.2-6540. A dog may be declared dangerous after biting, attacking, or injuring a person or domestic animal; a vicious dog determination (resulting in required euthanasia or strict confinement) applies after serious injury or repeated attacks. Owners of a declared dangerous dog must register the dog with the Virginia Dangerous Dog Registry, maintain 100,000 dollars in liability insurance, and use a muzzle and 4-foot leash in public.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Richmond, VA
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See how Richmond's breed restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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