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Alexandria, VA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Code
Sec. 5-7-32
Restraint
Leash/lead required
Applies To
Dogs + exotic animals
License Required
Sec. 5-7-47

Summary

Alexandria City Code Sec. 5-7-32 prohibits any dog or exotic/poisonous animal from running at large within the city. Dogs must be secured by a leash, lead, or other physical restraint that is not harmful to the dog.

3.2-6538 . Governing body of any locality may prohibit dogs from running at large; civil penalty. Any locality may by ordinance prohibit the running at large of all or any category of dogs, except dogs used for hunting, in all or any designated portion of such locality during such months as it may designate. Any such locality may also require that dogs be confined, restricted, or penned up during such periods. For the purpose of this section, a dog shall be deemed to run at large while roaming or running off the property of its owner or custodian and not under its owner's or custodian's immediate control. Any person who permits his dog to run at large or remain unconfined, unrestricted, or not penned up shall be deemed to have violated an ordinance adopted pursuant to the provisions of thi

Source: Alexandria, VA Code of OrdinancesView official code

Full Breakdown

Dogs in Alexandria must be on a leash (typically 6 ft maximum) in all public areas unless in designated off-leash parks. Virginia Code §3.2-6538 addresses dogs running at large. The Dangerous Dog Law (VA Code §3.2-6540 et seq.) governs dangerous dog classification based on behavior. Rabies vaccination required statewide under VA Code §3.2-6521. Dog waste must be picked up in public areas. Animal control handles loose dog reports.

Violations & Fines

Dog at large: $50 to $200. No rabies tag: $50 to $100. Dangerous dog violation: Class 1 misdemeanor up to $2,500.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to keep my dog on a leash in Alexandria?
Yes. Sec. 5-7-32 prohibits any dog from running at large at any time. Dogs must be secured by a leash, lead, or other physical restraint that is not harmful or injurious to the dog.
Are there other dog rules to know about?
Yes. Alexandria also enforces rabies inoculation (Sec. 5-7-38), restrictions on urination/defecation on private and public property (Sec. 5-7-42(2)/(3)), barking-dog rules (Sec. 5-7-42(4)), and an annual animal license requirement (Sec. 5-7-47).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Alexandria

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All Alexandria rules

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