Stay compliant and keep pets safe
LURAY, Va. – The Luray Police Department (LPD) is reminding residents that all pets must be leashed at all times in public areas.
In a January 14, 2025 media statement, the LPD noted that non-compliance with leash laws may result in fines or other penalties.
According to Town of Luray Code Sec. 18-40:
It shall be unlawful for any person to allow a dog belonging to him or in his custody to run at large within the whole of the corporate limits of the town. For the purpose of this section, a dog shall be deemed to run at large while roaming, running or self-hunting off the property of its owner or custodian and not under its owner’s or custodian’s immediate control.
Leash required. No dog shall go upon any public street, alley, square, or any other public property, or go upon the private property of another person, unless accompanied and held on leash by a responsible person.
(Code 1981, § 5-37; Ord. of 8-13-1984)
State Law reference — Authority of town to prohibit dogs running at large, Code of Virginia, § 3.1-796.94:1.
According to Page County Code 34-29:
It shall be unlawful for any person to allow a dog belonging to him or in his custody to run at large at any time within the whole of the boundaries of the county.
No dog shall go upon any public street, alley, square, or any other public property, or go upon the private property of another person, without that property owner’s permission, unless accompanied and held on leash by a responsible person.
Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor.
Keeping pets leashed in public spaces such as parks, sidewalks and trails is not only the required/legal thing to do, but it also helps prevent unexpected interactions with other animals, pedestrians, and vehicles.
The complete Town of Luray Municipal Code may be reviewed HERE. The complete Page County Code may be reviewed HERE.
The LPD encourages town residents with any leash law questions or concerns to call their offices at 743-5343.