Virginia § 3.2-6538 - Governing body of any locality may prohibit dogs from running at large; civil penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 3.2-6538 — Governing body of any locality may prohibit dogs from running at large; civil penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3.2-6538. Governing body of any locality may prohibit dogs from running at large; civil penalty
Any locality may by ordinance prohibit the running at large of all or any category of dogs, except dogs used for hunting, in all or any designated portion of such locality during such months as it may designate. Any such locality may also require that dogs be confined, restricted, or penned up during such periods. For the purpose of this section, a dog shall be deemed to run at large while roaming or running off the property of its owner or custodian and not under its owner's or custodian's immediate control. Any person who permits his dog to run at large or remain unconfined, unrestricted, or not penned up shall be deemed to have violated an ordinance adopted pursuant to the provisions of this section. Such ordinance shall provide that the owner or custodian of any dog found running at large in a pack shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount established by the locality not to exceed $100 per dog so found. For the purpose of such ordinance, a dog shall be deemed to be running at large in a pack if it is running at large in the company of one or more other dogs that are also running at large. Any civil penalty collected pursuant to such ordinance shall be deposited by the treasurer of the locality pursuant to the provisions of § 3.2-6534.
1984, c. 492, § 29-213.63; 1987, c. 488, § 3.1-796.93; 2008, c. 860; 2019, c. 562.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 3.2-6538
What does Code of Virginia § 3.2-6538 cover?
Section 3.2-6538 ("Governing body of any locality may prohibit dogs from running at large; civil penalty") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 3.2-6538?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 3.2-6538" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 3.2-6538 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.