Setting up a Non-Commercial Kennel in Prince William County: A Step-By-Step Guide to Zoning Approval

A non-commercial kennel refers to a facility maintained for private, non-business purposes as an accessory use to an agricultural or residential property. It is intended for animals owned strictly by the resident or homeowner, excluding occasional temporary pets.

In Prince William County, zoning approval is mandatory before establishing a kennel or securing a kennel license. To help with the plan, Development Services’ Land Development Division has outlined the county's primary zoning rules on Non-Commercial Kennels. Here are some of the key factors:

Permitted Districts & Dog Limits

A property's zoning district determines how many dogs can be kept on property. Up to eight (8) dogs are allowed by right if the property is zoned A-1 (Agricultural) or SR-5. If there are more than eight (8) dogs, owners must obtain an approved Special Use Permit in all applicable districts (A-1, SR-5, SR-3, and SR-1). In SR-1 and SR-3 districts owners must obtain an approved Special Use Permit for any number of dogs. Before applying, use the Prince William County Mapper to identify your property's exact zoning district.

Yard Setup & Safety Rules

All kennel structures, pens, or runs must be placed in the side or rear yard only. Everything must be at least 25 feet away from all property lines. If plans include a separate doghouse or shed for the kennel, it requires its own separate zoning approval.

Licensing

To save time, it’s important to know the process, as well as in which order applications are to be received. You must secure zoning approval first, approve any detached dog sheds second, apply for the kennel license third, and register your individual dogs online last, as follows:

1. Secure zoning approval or apply for a Special Use Permit.
2. Detached buildings, sheds or a doghouse require separate, individual zoning approvals.
3. Once zoning is approved, apply for a kennel license.
4. Ensure all individual dogs are registered online with the county.

For the complete guide visit the Non-Commercial Dog Kennel webpage. For more information visit www.pwcva.gov/zoning-counters, email [email protected] or call (703) 792-6830.