Alexandria's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Alexandria, Virginia, there are 6 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Chickens & Livestock

Alexandria Sec. 5-7-2 prohibits keeping any fowl within 200 feet of any residence or dwelling not occupied by the keeper. The setback effectively bans backyard chickens for most city lots, which are too small to meet the 200-foot requirement.

Key details: Code: Sec. 5-7-2. Setback: 200 ft from neighbor home. Practical Effect: Most lots ineligible. Roosters: Generally not allowed.

Ordinance violation: $100 to $500. Repeat: daily fines. Animal removal possible for non-compliance.

This is one of the stricter rules in Alexandria's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Wildlife Feeding

Alexandria restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisance conditions.

Key details: Prohibited: Deer, coyotes, bears. Bird Feeders: May be restricted. Pet Food: Must not be left outside. Fines: $50 to $500.

Warnings for first offense. Fines typically $50 to $500. Repeat violations may result in misdemeanor charges in some jurisdictions.

Beekeeping

Alexandria regulates beekeeping through local ordinance. Virginia has a State Apiarist program under VA Code §3.2-4400.

Key details: Hives: Typically 2 to 4 residential. Setback: 10 to 25 ft from lines. Flyway Barrier: May be required. State Law: VA Code §3.2-4400.

Ordinance violation: $50 to $200. Nuisance complaints may trigger additional restrictions.

The rules around beekeeping in Alexandria lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Exotic Pets

Alexandria restricts ownership of exotic and wild animals. Many species require special permits or are prohibited entirely for public safety.

Key details: Large Cats: Generally prohibited. Primates: Generally prohibited. Permits: Required for some species. Insurance: May be required.

Confiscation of prohibited animals. Fines $500 to $5,000. Criminal charges possible for dangerous species. Owner liable for damages from escaped animals.

Compared to other cities, Alexandria takes a harder line on exotic pets. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Breed Restrictions

Alexandria may have breed-specific rules. Virginia does NOT preempt local breed restrictions. Check local ordinances.

Key details: State Preemption: None - local control. Breed Bans: Some localities have them. Dangerous Dog: Behavior-based state law. Insurance: May be required for breeds.

Breed restriction violation: $200 to $1,000. Animal impoundment possible. Mandatory conditions for return.

Dog Leash Laws

Alexandria City Code Sec. 5-7-32 prohibits any dog or exotic/poisonous animal from running at large within the city. Dogs must be secured by a leash, lead, or other physical restraint that is not harmful to the dog.

Key details: Code: Sec. 5-7-32. Restraint: Leash/lead required. Applies To: Dogs + exotic animals. License Required: Sec. 5-7-47.

Dog at large: $50 to $200. No rabies tag: $50 to $100. Dangerous dog violation: Class 1 misdemeanor up to $2,500.

The Bottom Line

Alexandria is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 6 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Alexandria, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Alexandria's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.