Thinking about surprising your household with a new puppy for the holidays? Before you plan for potty training, remember that the County has zoning rules for the number of dogs on your property.
Keeping of Dogs – The Zoning Ordinance limits the number of dogs that can be kept on a property. Condos, apartments, and any lot under 10,000 square feet can have up to two dogs. The permitted number increases gradually, based on lot size. Puppies under six months won't be counted until they exceed that age. Owners of properties wanting more than the allowed number of dogs can pursue approval of a special permit by the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). Through a public hearing, the BZA can consider if the proposed number of dogs would be compatible with the adjacent area. The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) also reminds dog owners that the Noise Ordinance limits barking to minimize disruption to nearby neighbors.
Not a dog person? You can learn more about regulations for the keeping of other animals from our webpage and the Department of Planning and Development’s Keeping of Animals flyer. There are no lot sizes or maximum numbers for other types of companion animals such as cats, rabbits, and other animals not listed in the flyer. If you live in a managed community, like an apartment or condo building, always check with your owner’s association and/or management company to make sure your pets are allowed.
While not a zoning requirement, other laws require dogs and cats to have routine rabies vaccinations. Other vaccinations, such as distemper, may not be required by law but are encouraged for certain animals. Additional information about pet vaccinations is available from the Fairfax County Department of Animal Services’ webpage. You may also contact a veterinarian.
DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035. If you have comments or suggestions for DCC, fill out our feedback form to let us know how we’re doing.