Virginia § 3.2-6542.1 - Renewal of dangerous dog registration

Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 3.2-6542.1 — Renewal of dangerous dog registration, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3.2-6542.1. Renewal of dangerous dog registration

A. By January 31 of each year, until the animal is deceased, the owner of an animal found to be a dangerous dog pursuant to § 3.2-6540 shall update and renew the dangerous dog registration certificate obtained pursuant to § 3.2-6540.01 for a fee of $85 in the same manner as the initial certificate was obtained. However, if the dangerous dog adjudication occurred within 60 days of the end of the calendar year, the first renewal shall be included in the initial registration at no additional charge to the owner.

B. Prior to the renewal date of a dangerous dog registration each year, a local animal control officer shall conduct an inspection of the dangerous dog and the premises on which it is kept, and no certificate of renewal shall be issued without such inspection. The animal control officer shall post registration information on the Virginia Dangerous Dog Registry established by § 3.2-6542.

C. No dangerous dog registration certificate required to be obtained under this section shall be issued to any person who is younger than 18 years of age or who fails to present satisfactory evidence of (i) compliance with the provisions of §§ 3.2-6540, 3.2-6540.01, 3.2-6540.02, 3.2-6540.03, and 3.2-6540.04; (ii) the animal's current rabies vaccination, if applicable; and (iii) a current county or city dog license, as appropriate.

2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 464.

Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 3.2-6542.1

What does Code of Virginia § 3.2-6542.1 cover?

Section 3.2-6542.1 ("Renewal of dangerous dog registration") 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 § 3.2-6542.1?

A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 3.2-6542.1" (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 § 3.2-6542.1 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.