Prince William County, VA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Code section
- PWC Code Sec. 4-23
- Definition
- Off property, no leash/cord/chain
- Pack penalty
- $100.00 per dog
- License required
- Dogs over 4 months (Sec. 4-40)
- Enforcement
- PWC Animal Services
Summary
Prince William County Code Sec. 4-23 makes it unlawful to allow a dog to run at large. A dog is 'at large' when off its owner's property and not attached to a person by a leash, cord, or chain.
It is unlawful for a dog owner/custodian to allow their dog to run at large within the county. 'At large' means that the dog is off the property of its owner/custodian and not attached to that person by a leash.
Full Breakdown
Under PWC Code Sec. 4-23 (Article III, Dogs Generally), it is unlawful for a dog owner or custodian to allow their dog to run at large within the county. 'At large' means the dog is off the property of its owner/custodian and not under control by leash, cord, or chain. Limited exceptions exist for supervised training classes, shows, sanctioned field trials, and lawful hunting during open season. Dogs must also be currently licensed (Sec. 4-40) and rabies-vaccinated if over four months old (Sec. 4-62). Sec. 4-4 separately bars animals from trespassing on another's property after a request to stop, and Sec. 4-11 prohibits dogs from defecating on private or public property. Enforcement is by Prince William County Animal Services.
Violations & Fines
Running at large is a Class 4 misdemeanor-level violation enforced by Animal Services; dogs may be impounded, with owners owing impound and boarding fees. Sec.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my dog have to be on a leash in Prince William County?
What is the fine for a loose dog?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Prince William County
Compare Prince William County to another location·View the Virginia animal ordinances overview
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