Breed Restrictions: Fairfax vs Vienna
How do breed restrictions rules compare between Fairfax, VA and Vienna, VA?
Fairfax has fewer restrictions than Vienna.
Fairfax, VA
Fairfax County
The City of Fairfax does not restrict any specific breed of dog. Virginia Code 3.2-6540.1 preempts breed-specific local legislation statewide, so pit bulls, Rottweilers, and other commonly targeted breeds are legal to own in the city subject to the same rules as any other dog.
View full Fairfax rules →Vienna, VA
Fairfax County
Vienna applies Virginia's Dangerous Dog Law (VA Code 3.2-6540.1) through Fairfax County Animal Protection Police. Dogs that bite or attack without provocation may be declared dangerous or vicious, with registration, insurance, muzzling, and secure-enclosure requirements. Virginia does not use breed-specific legislation.
View full Vienna rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fairfax | Vienna |
|---|---|---|
| Breed bans | None, state preempts | - |
| State statute | VA Code 3.2-6540.1 | - |
| Dangerous dog test | Behavior, not breed | - |
| HOA breed rules | Allowed privately | - |
| Locality authority | Dillon Rule, none granted | - |
| Fact | - | VA Code 3.2-6540.1 governs statewide |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fairfax FAQ
Can I own a pit bull in the City of Fairfax?
Yes. The city cannot restrict breed under state law.
Can my HOA still ban certain breeds?
Yes. Private contracts such as HOA covenants are not preempted.
What makes a dog dangerous under state law?
An unprovoked bite or attack documented through a judicial finding, regardless of breed.
Vienna FAQ
Are pit bulls banned in Vienna?
No. Virginia does not permit breed-specific legislation. Any dog of any breed may be declared dangerous based on behavior.
What if my dog bites someone?
Report the incident immediately to Fairfax County Animal Protection Police. Quarantine (10 days for rabies observation) will be required, and a dangerous-dog hearing may follow depending on circumstances.
Compare other topics
See how Fairfax and Vienna compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool