Fairfax County, Virginia

Section 41.1-2-20. – Cruelty to animals, penalties.

G. It shall be unlawful for any person to tether a dog for more than one hour cumulatively within any 24-hour period, whether or not the tethered dog has been provided adequate space as defined in the Virginia Code, § 3.2-6500, as amended, unless the dog is under the direct supervision and control of its owner or custodian. Each violation of this subsection constitutes a separate violation of this subsection. The first violation of this subsection shall be punished as a Class 3 misdemeanor. However, a second violation of this subsection, whether or not involving the same dog, within one year after conviction of the first violation shall be punished as a Class 2 misdemeanor. The third and each subsequent violation of this subsection, whether or not involving the same dog, within one year after conviction of the first violation shall be punished as a Class 1 misdemeanor.

H. Any person convicted of violating this section may be prohibited by the court from possession or ownership of companion animals.