Herndon, VA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Herndon Town Code Chapter 6 Animals, along with Fairfax County animal regulations applied through cooperative agreement, governs household pet limits. The typical residential limit is four dogs over four months of age per dwelling unit. Households wishing to keep more dogs must apply for a kennel license, which requires zoning compatibility, inspection, and owner notification. Cats are generally allowed in reasonable numbers without a permit, though hoarding situations or properties generating sanitation or noise complaints can trigger enforcement. Other common pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and small indoor birds are typically not counted in the limit. Exotic animals, venomous reptiles, and certain wildlife are restricted under Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources rules. HOAs in Herndon neighborhoods including Franklin Farm, Chandon, and Kingston Chase often impose stricter limits through covenants, typically two or three dogs maximum. Prospective owners should check both Town ordinance and HOA covenants before acquiring additional pets.