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2005 SESSION


CHAPTER 307
An Act to amend and reenact § 3.1-796.84 of the Code of Virginia, relating to permits to sell companion animals; penalties.
[H 2338]
Approved March 20, 2005
 

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1.  That § 3.1-796.84 of the Code of Virginia is amended and reenacted as follows:

§ 3.1-796.84. Local ordinances; penalties.

The governing body of any county, city or town may, by local ordinance, require a person operating a pet shop or operating as a dealer in companion animals to obtain a permit. Such local governing body may charge no more than fifty dollars $50 per year for such permit. The revenues derived therefrom shall be used for the administration and enforcement of such ordinance.

The aforementioned local ordinance may provide: (i) that records be kept by the permittees as are deemed necessary; (ii) for public hearing prior to issuance, renewal or revocation of any such permit; or (iii) for the denial of issuance, denial of renewal or for the revocation of such permit for fraudulent practices or inhumane treatment of the animals dealt with by the permittee.

The local ordinance may also provide penalties for violation of the ordinance for either a criminal penalty not to exceed those of a Class 3 misdemeanor or a civil penalty not to exceed $500 for any violation of the ordinance. Any civil penalties collected shall be deposited by the local treasurer pursuant to § 3.1-796.101.