HB1396

Virginia HB1396 establishes permits and regulations for hunting with dogs, including civil penalties for violations.

Virginia HB1396 mandates that individuals and organizations obtain permits from the Department to hunt game animals, fur-bearing animals, and nuisance species using dogs. It sets conditions for exemptions and outlines practices to prevent dogs from entering private property without permission. Starting July 1, 2027, it will be illegal to release dogs to hunt, pursue, or chase game animals, fur-bearing animals, or nuisance species. Exemptions include mounted fox hunting, waterfowl hunting, and using tracking dogs for retrieving wounded or dead animals.