Virginia Beach, VA Animal Ordinances: Microchipping (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- Court finding of dangerous dog
- Deadline
- 30 days after the finding
- Filed with
- Animal control officer
- Noncompliance penalty
- Class 1 misdemeanor
Summary
Virginia Beach only mandates microchipping for dogs a court has found to be dangerous: the owner must implant electronic ID and register it with animal control within 30 days of the finding.
Within thirty (30) days of the finding that an animal is a dangerous dog pursuant to Code of Virginia § 3.2-6540 and City Code section 5-520, the owner shall: ... (2)Provide documentation that the animal has been implanted with electronic identification registered to the owner. The registration information shall be provided to the animal control officer;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 170 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Virginia Beach does not require microchips for pets generally; standard dog and cat licensing under City Code § 5-306 uses a metal tag, not electronic ID. But once a general district court adjudicates a dog dangerous under City Code § 5-520 and Code of Virginia § 3.2-6540, § 5-521(b)(2) requires the owner, within 30 days, to have the dog implanted with electronic identification and to give the registration information to the animal control officer, alongside neutering, insurance, and warning-sign requirements.
Violations & Fines
Courts can use contempt powers to compel owners to produce the dog and proof of chipping (§ 5-520(f)). Willfully failing to comply with § 5-521's requirements, including the chip mandate, is a Class 1 misdemeanor under § 5-524(c).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Virginia Beach require microchipping all dogs and cats?
What must a dangerous-dog owner do besides microchip the dog?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
Compare Virginia Beach to another location·View the Virginia animal ordinances overview
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