Police Department - Chesapeake Animal Control Unit

What are the city laws pertaining to animals in Chesapeake?

Listed below are a few of the laws (with code sections) most commonly asked about by citizens:

• Dogs and cats must stay in their own yards unless accompanied by an owner or caretaker. (10-42)

• Dogs and cats, four months and older, must be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. (10-43)

• Dogs and cats four months and older are required to be licensed by the City Treasurer each calendar year. The cost is $10 for unspayed or unneutered dogs and cats and $4 for spayed or neutered dogs and cats. (10-62)

• Female dogs in season must be confined so as not to constitute a public nuisance. (10-46)

• Owners must clean up after pets which defecate on private or public property. (10-23)

• Dogs and cats that are outside and not in the immediate physical presence of their owner must wear identification. (10-66)

• It is unlawful to harbor stray animals longer than 14 days without having reported the animal to CACU. (10-21)

• Owners are subject to summonses and possible fines for the above violations not to exceed $250 each.

  • Dogs which attack other animals or humans may be impounded until a court hearing. If found to be vicious or dangerous, the dog may be destroyed, removed or otherwise confined. (10-47)

  • No owner shall allow his or her dog or cat to be a nuisance. A court may order these animals removed, destroyed or otherwise confined. (10-45)

  • Dogs and cats which bite or scratch a human must be quarantined by an Animal Control Officer for a period of 10 days. These are confined on the owner's property under order of the Health Department as a rabies control measure. Failure to comply is a criminal offense. (10-47)

• Owners of exotic animals, including but not limited to monkeys, wolf hybrids, poisonous reptiles, certain non-poisonous reptiles, emus, and llamas must obtain a permit from CACU. The cost is $10 per year per household. (10-49)

Tips on caring for your pet

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