Love them? Leash them. 

Like virtually all other communities, Alexandria has leash laws, which require dogs be kept on a leash at all times while on public property. The intent of the law is to protect the health and safety of you, your dog, and the community. 

Find Alexandria’s ordinances related to leash laws here: 

5-7-33.1 Running at large in public parks prohibited – Used for dogs that are off leash in public parks. 

5-7-35 Keeping dogs under physical restraint – Used for anyone that is walking their dog without a leash on a sidewalk or roadway.

5-7-42 (5) Dogs prohibited on public playgrounds and school property – Used for dogs leashed or unleashed on any public school grounds

5-7-46 Penalties – These are civil penalties that can result in an issued paper citation.   

• 5-7-33.1 is a $100 fine 
• 5-7-35 is a $50 fine
• 5-7-42(5) is a $50 fine

The law is not in place to be punitive or strip your dog of freedom. It is in place to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment of Alexandria’s public spaces. 

You can find a list of approved off-leash fenced and unfenced dog parks in Alexandria here. These are the only areas in the city where dogs may exercise off leash. **Please note that each of the parks listed have certain, marked areas that are for unleashed dogs. It does not mean the entire park allows for unleashed dogs.**

Reasons why your dog should be kept on a leash in public spaces: 

1. To protect others – Not everyone likes dogs and some people are afraid of them. Being approached by an off-leash dog could cause undue stress for people and dogs. 
2. To prevent dog fights – Even if your dog is friendly, many others are not. It’s also important to remember some leashed dogs are leash-reactive and being greeted by an off-leash dog may trigger a negative response. 
3. To protect your dog – You think you’ve accounted for everything and know your dog, but things can happen quickly. Your dog could chase a fox, rabbit, squirrel or community cat and get lost or injured in the process. 
4. To protect you – Keep yourself safe from legal and civil ramifications of your dog being off leash and getting caught in an unfortunate situation. 

To report an off-leash dog in a public space, call Alexandria Police Department’s non-emergency dispatch at 703-746-4444. All animal related calls are directed to our Animal Services team.