Chesapeake prohibits most exotic and dangerous wild animals as pets under City Code Chapter 10, which aligns with VA Code section 3.2-6500 definitions. Prohibited species include big cats, non-human primates, venomous reptiles, and bears. Standard pet reptiles, birds, and small mammals are allowed.
Chesapeake City Code Chapter 10 mirrors the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) regulated list to prohibit ownership of dangerous wild animals. Prohibited categories generally include non-human primates (monkeys, apes), large felids (lions, tigers, leopards, cougars), bears, wolves and wolf-hybrids (with some grandfathering), venomous snakes, large constrictors over a specified length, alligators and crocodiles, and skunks or raccoons kept as pets. Standard pets including dogs, cats, domestic ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, birds (parrots, cockatiels, finches), non-venomous reptiles within size limits, and ornamental fish are permitted. Permits for educational, zoological, or scientific possession may be granted by VDWR under 4 VAC 15-30. The Great Dismal Swamp proximity means released exotics (particularly Burmese pythons and red-eared sliders) pose ecosystem risks, and enforcement takes this seriously.
Class 1 misdemeanor under state law; up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine. Animal seized and sent to a licensed sanctuary or euthanized if no placement available.
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake does not impose gas leaf blower bans or specific decibel caps. Leaf blower use is regulated by the general noise ordinance (City Code Chapter 38) ...
Chesapeake, VA
Vehicle noise in Chesapeake includes restrictions on modified exhaust, squealing tires, and loud car audio. Sound systems audible at 50 feet can be cited und...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake treats persistent dog barking as a public nuisance under City Code Chapter 10 (Animals) and Chapter 38 (Noise). Barking that continues for 20 minu...
Chesapeake, VA
Amplified music in Chesapeake must not be plainly audible at 50 feet from the source between 10 PM and 7 AM (11 PM to 8 AM on weekends). Outdoor events with ...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake fence height limits are typically 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in rear and side yards under the Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance. Corner lots and p...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake outdoor burning follows the Virginia 4 PM Burn Law (VA Code 10.1-1142). From Feb 15 to April 30, open burning within 300 feet of woodland is prohi...
See how Chesapeake's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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