Zoning Regulations

Ownership of more than three dogs per family is prohibited in any residential district. A special exception permit is required for four or more adult dogs. If you need a special permit, contact the Chesterfield County Zoning Office at (804) 748-1050. Owners are still required to have current county dog licenses.

County Leash Law

It is against the law to permit your dog to run loose in Chesterfield County, even if the animal is within voice command. If a dog is running loose, it is the duty of the animal control officer to catch and impound it in the Animal Control Shelter. Under Chesterfield County's current leash law, dogs must be on a leash at all times when not on the dog owner's property.

Impounded Dogs

If a dog has a collar the Virginia code requires a holding period of 10 days for the owner to claim the dog and five days without a collar. The Animal Control Unit will hold dogs and cats longer in order to give owners more time to find their pets.  After the holding period the dog or cat is placed for adoption, transfer or euthanasia.  If it has tags, the owner will be notified by certified mail . Owners will be charged $30 for the first day of confinement and $12 for each succeeding day. Dogs without owner information can be disposed of after confinement of 5 days.

Boundary Lines for Farm Animals

The boundary line of each lot or tract of land is the lawful limit for any horse, mule, cattle, hog, sheep or goat. It is unlawful for the owner or manager of any such animal to permit it to run at large beyond the boundaries where the animal is confined. Any person violating this law is subject to a fine of up to $250.