Virginia Beach, VA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Virginia Beach leash laws are codified in City Code Chapter 5 (Animals and Fowl) and enforced by Virginia Beach Animal Control. Dogs must be on a leash not exceeding 6 feet when on any public property including streets, sidewalks, parks (unless designated off-leash areas), school grounds, and the oceanfront boardwalk. The leash must be physically held by a person capable of controlling the dog. Retractable leashes are permitted but must be locked at 6 feet or less in public areas. Seasonal beach restrictions are significant in Virginia Beach: dogs are prohibited from the Resort Area beaches between 2nd Street and 42nd Street from Memorial Day through Labor Day (May through September) during daytime hours, typically 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Outside peak season and outside these hours, leashed dogs are permitted on the sand. Sandbridge Beach, Croatan Beach, Chic's Beach, and North End beaches have varying seasonal rules — always check signage. The boardwalk has year-round leash requirements. Designated off-leash dog parks in Virginia Beach include: Red Wing Park (General Booth Boulevard), Woodstock Park (Providence Road), Bayville Farms Park (First Court Road), and City View Park. These are fenced, free to use, and open dawn to dusk. Dogs must be licensed (see licensing), vaccinated against rabies, and under owner control in dog parks. Dogs at large (running loose) can be impounded; reclaim fees start at $35 plus $15/day boarding plus any veterinary costs. First-offense leash violations typically carry $50 fines, escalating with repeated violations. Aggressive off-leash dogs may trigger dangerous dog proceedings. Service dogs performing work are exempt from leash requirements while actively assisting a handler under the ADA and VA Code §51.5-44. Waste cleanup is mandatory in all public areas; failure to clean up after a dog is a separate $50 violation.