Richmond does not impose a citywide mandatory spay-neuter ordinance, but Virginia law and RACC adoption contracts require sterilization of dogs and cats released from shelters or rescues.
Virginia Code §3.2-6574 requires that any dog or cat released from a public animal shelter, humane society, or releasing agency be sterilized prior to release or under a written sterilization agreement enforceable within 30 days for adults and within 30 days of reaching six months for juveniles. Richmond Animal Care and Control complies with this statute and includes sterilization deposits in adoption contracts. The city does not regulate breeding by private owners, though intact animals running at large may face higher reclaim fees and breeders selling animals must comply with state pet-shop and dealer rules.
Failure to comply with a sterilization agreement allows the releasing agency to recover the animal. Civil penalties up to $250 may apply, and adoption privileges can be revoked.
Richmond, VA
Richmond City Code prohibits keeping wild, exotic, or dangerous animals including venomous reptiles, large constrictors, nonhuman primates, and big cats. Vir...
Richmond, VA
Richmond limits households to 4 dogs and 4 cats total (8 animals combined) over 4 months of age without a kennel permit. Larger numbers require a commercial ...
See how Richmond's mandatory spay/neuter rules stack up against other locations.
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