Virginia Statewide Rule
Virginia Dog Running at Large and Leash Authority
Key Facts
- Enabling statute
- Va. Code 3.2-6538
- Dangerous dog rule
- Va. Code 3.2-6540
- Max civil penalty
- $100 per dog
- Hunting dogs
- Generally exempt
Summary
Virginia authorizes localities to prohibit dogs running at large, while imposing statewide rules on dangerous dogs that must be leashed and muzzled outside.
C. Any dangerous dog not confined inside a locked enclosure constructed pursuant to subsection D shall be (i) confined inside the owner's residence or (ii) if outdoors, controlled by a physical leash employed by the responsible adult owner and securely muzzled in a manner that does not cause injury to the animal or interfere with the animal's vision or respiration but prevents it from biting a person or another animal.
Full Breakdown
Va. Code Section 3.2-6538 lets any locality adopt an ordinance prohibiting dogs from running at large, with a civil penalty the locality sets up to $100 per dog. Most counties and cities have done so. Statewide, Section 3.2-6540 requires a dog declared dangerous by a court to be confined in a locked enclosure, kept indoors, or leashed and muzzled when outside. Hunting dogs lawfully engaged in hunting are generally exempt. Localities may make parallel animal-care ordinances more stringent under Section 3.2-6543.
Violations & Penalties
Civil penalty up to $100 per dog for running at large; dangerous-dog violations are misdemeanors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Virginia have a statewide leash law?
What happens if my dog is declared dangerous?
Sources
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