Vienna prohibits inherently dangerous exotic animals and defers to Virginia state law and Fairfax County regulations for other exotic species. Big cats, primates, venomous snakes, alligators, and bears are banned. Permitted exotics (rabbits, small reptiles, small birds) must still comply with pet-limit rules.
The Town of Vienna and Fairfax County prohibit keeping inherently dangerous exotic animals as pets, consistent with VA Code 4VAC15-30-40 and related regulations. Prohibited species include all members of the cat family weighing over 25 pounds when mature (lions, tigers, cougars, leopards), all primates, bears, wolves and wolf hybrids, venomous snakes, crocodilians, and non-human great apes. Most zoos, licensed sanctuaries, and exhibitors are exempt with proper USDA and state permits. Permitted exotic pets include small non-venomous reptiles (corn snakes, leopard geckos, bearded dragons), rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, ferrets (legal in Virginia, unlike in some states), domestic birds, and freshwater aquarium fish. Monk parakeets and certain species on Virginia's prohibited invasive list may not be kept. Venomous arthropods and tarantulas are not specifically banned but are discouraged. Reptiles over 4 feet (large constrictor snakes, monitors) require permits. Violations of exotic animal prohibitions can result in Class 1 misdemeanor charges carrying up to 12 months in jail and 2,500 dollar fines under state law. Fairfax County Animal Protection Police enforce these provisions. Educational exhibits and animal actors may obtain temporary permits.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Vienna, VA
Commercial noise in Vienna, including HVAC equipment, refrigeration units, delivery activity, and loading docks, is regulated through zoning conditions and t...
Vienna, VA
Vehicle noise in Vienna is regulated through both Town Code and Virginia state law. Modified exhaust systems, excessively loud stereos, and unnecessary horn ...
Vienna, VA
Construction and contractor work in Vienna is permitted Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and prohibited on Sundays and ...
Vienna, VA
The Town of Vienna restricts unreasonably loud, disturbing, or unnecessary noise at all hours under Chapter 13 of the Town Code, with enhanced nighttime rest...
Vienna, VA
Commercial vehicles over 12,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, tractor-trailers, and vehicles with commercial signage above specified sizes generally ca...
Vienna, VA
On-street parking in Vienna is generally allowed on residential streets unless signed otherwise. Vehicles may not be parked in the same spot on a public stre...
See how Vienna's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.