Loudoun County, VA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Leash Length
- 6 ft max
- Off-Leash Parks
- Brambleton, Franklin
- Rabies
- Required
- License
- Loudoun Treasurer
- Dangerous Dog
- VA §3.2-6540
Summary
Loudoun Chapter 612 requires dogs on leash (max 6 ft) in public areas except at designated off-leash parks (Brambleton, Ashburn, Franklin). VA §3.2-6538 governs dogs running at large.
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 this section.
Full Breakdown
Loudoun County Codified Ordinances Chapter 612 requires dogs to be on a physical leash no longer than 6 feet in all public areas, including parks, trails (W&OD, Dulles Greenway Trail, Potomac Heritage), sidewalks, and sporting facilities. Off-leash areas are permitted only at designated county dog parks (Brambleton Dog Park, Franklin Park Dog Park, Ashburn dog park areas) and within private fenced yards. Rabies vaccination required under VA Code §3.2-6521 with county license issued by the Loudoun Treasurer. Dog waste must be picked up in public areas (pet waste ordinance enforced on W&OD Trail). Dangerous dog classification under VA Code §3.2-6540 requires behavioral evidence.
Violations & Fines
Dog at large: $50-$250 per occurrence. No rabies vaccination/license: $50-$100. Dangerous dog violation: Class 1 misdemeanor up to $2,500 and up to 12 months jail. Third offense at-large: potential impoundment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are typical penalties for violating dog leash laws rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Loudoun County
Compare Loudoun County to another location·View the Virginia animal ordinances overview
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