We love our pets, and in the City of Alexandria, three City ordinances are designed to keep you, your pet, and the community safe by requiring dogs to be on a leash except in designated areas. 

ORDINANCES for Off-Leash Dogs 

5-7-33.1 Running at large in public parks prohibited. This means your dog is not allowed on a public playground or in a public park without being on a leash or in a designated dog area. Breaking this ordinance results in a $100 fine.  

5-7-35 Dogs mut be kept under physical restraint. eCollars do not meet the definition of “under physical restraint.” This means you must have your dog on a leash or under other physical restraint like in a dog backpack or stroller. Breaking this ordinance results in a $50 fine. 

5-7-42 (5) Dogs are prohibited on public playgrounds and school property. This means your dogs are not allowed on school property or playgrounds, even if they are on a leash or under your physical control. Breaking this ordinance results in a $50 fine. 

How do I report aggressive or off-leash dogs outside of designated areas?  

To report an issue with an off-leash dog, call the non-emergency Alexandria Police Department number at 703.746.4444. The call will be routed to an Animal Services officer.  

Where can I take my dog to play off-leash?  

The City of Alexandria has seven fenced off-leash dog parks and 11 unfenced off-leash dog areas, which can be found by visiting alexandriava.gov/Dogs or by viewing the Dog Exercise Area category on ParkLink. 

Interested in how the City plans for future dog parks? Get involved in a board or commission by visiting alexandriava.gov/Boards, send a message to the City Council, or attend a City Council meeting or Public Hearing.  

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you. Please email [email protected] or call 703.746.3960.