reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6001. Protection of livestock and poultry

The Commissioner, the Board, the State Veterinarian, and all other veterinarians within the Commonwealth shall use their best efforts to protect livestock and poultry from contagious and infectious disease. It shall also be the duty of the Commissioner, the Board, and the State Veterinarian to cooperate with the livestock and poultry disease control officials of other states and with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in establishing interstate quarantine lines and regulations so as to best protect the livestock and poultry of the Commonwealth against all contagious and infectious diseases.
Code 1950, § 3-566; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-724; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6002. Contagious and infectious diseases; prevention and eradication; presence of biological residues

A. The State Veterinarian shall take such measures as may be necessary to prevent the spread of and eradicate contagious and infectious livestock and poultry diseases. The Board may adopt regulations as may be necessary to effectuate the purposes of this article. The Board and the Commissioner are also authorized to make the regulations adopted under this article conform, insofar as practicable, to those regulations adopted under federal statutes governing animal health.
B. The Commissioner may adopt by reference any federal regulation adopted pursuant to any federal statute relating to animal health, amending it as necessary for intrastate applicability. Any regulation adopted by the Commissioner pursuant to this subsection shall be effective upon filing with the Registrar of Regulations, who shall publish the regulation as a final regulation in the Virginia Register of Regulations, or upon a date specified by the Department that is after the filing.
The regulation shall contain a preamble stating that the Board will receive, consider and respond to a petition by any interested person at any time with respect to reconsideration or revision of such regulation. Neither the requirements of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) nor public participation guidelines adopted pursuant thereto shall apply to the adoption of any regulation by the Commissioner pursuant to this subsection.
C. The Board, after giving notice in the Virginia Register of Regulations, may reconsider and revise the regulation adopted by the Commissioner. If, upon reconsideration, the Board determines that the regulation should be revised other than as authorized by subsection B, the Board may amend the regulation only as authorized by the Administrative Process Act.
D. The Commissioner and the Board may use the powers granted by this article to abate the presence of biological residues in or on livestock or poultry. Biological residues shall mean those substances remaining in or on any animal prior to or at the time of slaughter as the result of treatment or exposure that are determined by the Commissioner and the Board to be or to have the potential for being injurious to the health of humans or animals.
Code 1950, § 3-568; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-726; 1977, c. 299; 1981, c. 130; 1991, c. 294; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6003. Duty of State Veterinarian when animals are suspected of having a contagious or infectious disease

A. The State Veterinarian, upon receipt of reliable information of the existence of any contagious or infectious disease among animals of the Commonwealth with potential impact on livestock or poultry, shall immediately make an evaluation that may include going to the place where such disease has been reported. The evaluation may include conducting tests of the animals believed to be affected with such disease, and ascertain, if possible, what, if any, disease exists, and whether the same is contagious or infectious.
B. Upon notice by the State Veterinarian or his representative, the owner or custodian of any animal to be evaluated shall isolate and confine the animal if necessary to accomplish the evaluation or to prevent the spread of contagious or infectious disease.
C. 1. If a disease is found to be contagious or infectious, the State Veterinarian, or his representative, may adopt and enforce quarantine lines and regulations and shall enforce such cleaning and disinfection as may be deemed necessary to prevent the spread of such disease. Quarantine lines and regulations, when adopted, shall supersede any similar provisions made by the governing body of any county under the provisions of Chapter 12 (§ 15.2-1200 et seq.) of Title 15.2.
2. The State Veterinarian may issue and enforce a proclamation limiting live animal sales and events or the movement of manure, bedding, equipment, vehicles, or other material that may be infectious to prevent the spread of contagious or infectious diseases to livestock and poultry.
Code 1950, § 3-569; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-727; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6004. Regulation for the separation and caring for diseased animals

The Board may adopt regulations and the State Veterinarian may give and enforce directions and orders as to separating, feeding, and caring for diseased or exposed animals as necessary to prevent the animals affected with disease, or capable of communicating disease, from coming in contact with livestock or poultry not so affected.
Code 1950, § 3-572; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-730; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6005. Notice of quarantine

The State Veterinarian, or his representative, may give such notice as may be necessary to make a quarantine effective.
Code 1950, § 3-574; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-732; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6006. Quarantine of individuals

Any individual exposed to contagious or infectious animal diseases that, in the reasonable opinion of the State Veterinarian, may be transmitted by such individual to animals, may be quarantined when, in the reasonable opinion of the State Veterinarian, such quarantine will prevent the spread of such contagious or infectious diseases among livestock or poultry. The provisions of § 32.1-48.010 shall apply, mutatis mutandis, to appeal any order of quarantine issued pursuant to this section. For purposes of this section only, significant health threat shall include threat of contagious or infectious diseases to livestock or poultry.
Code 1950, § 3-571; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-729; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6007. Domestic animals not permitted to enter or leave quarantine

Any domestic animal with any contagious or infectious disease, any domestic animal exposed to such a disease, or any domestic animal that is otherwise capable of communicating such a disease to livestock or poultry shall not be permitted to enter or leave any quarantined district, premises, or grounds, except by authority of the State Veterinarian.
Code 1950, § 3-570; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-728; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6008. Disposition of quarantined animals with potential to impact livestock or poultry

Disposition of quarantined animals, including condemnation, shall be determined by the State Veterinarian or his representative after confirmation by diagnostic testing, the results of which shall be provided to the owner and grower of such animal upon request.
Code 1950, §§ 3-576, 3-584, 3-586, 3-598.8; 1956, c. 376; 1966, cc. 5, 702, §§ 3.1-734, 3.1-749, 3.1-751, 3.1-763.2; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6009. Euthanasia or slaughter of livestock or poultry by owner

A. The State Veterinarian may require the owner or custodian to euthanize or slaughter condemned livestock or poultry within a specified period of time, and under state or federal supervision, or under regulations of the Board. The carcasses shall be disposed of pursuant to regulations adopted by the Board.
B. If the owner or custodian fails to euthanize or slaughter any condemned livestock or poultry pursuant to subsection A, then the State Veterinarian or his representative may seize the condemned livestock or poultry and euthanize or slaughter the animals as required.
Code 1950, § 3-586; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-751; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6010. Proclamation prohibiting animal importation; required tests

A. When the Commissioner or the State Veterinarian shall have a reasonable belief of the existence of contagious or infectious diseases of animals in localities in other states, territories, or countries, or that conditions exist that, in the judgment of the Commissioner or of the State Veterinarian, render the importation of animals from such localities a menace to the health of the livestock or poultry of the Commonwealth, the Commissioner or the State Veterinarian shall, by proclamation, prohibit the importation of any or all kinds of animals from any locality of other states, territories or countries, into the Commonwealth, except pursuant to subsection B.
B. The Commissioner or the State Veterinarian may require documentation of negative laboratory test results using a test specified by the State Veterinarian within a specific time period prior to an animal, embryo, hatching egg, or semen entering the Commonwealth. Expenses associated with meeting entry requirements shall be borne by the owner of the animal.
Code 1950, § 3-576; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-734; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6011. Bringing animals infected with disease into the Commonwealth, or in violation of order or regulation; disinfecting transport vehicles

It shall be unlawful for any person to: (i) transport from outside the Commonwealth into the Commonwealth any animal, knowing the same to be infected with a contagious or infectious disease, or any animal known by the importer to have been exposed to a contagious or infectious disease, or known to bear upon its body ticks or other disease vectors or known to be a carrier of contagious or infectious disease; (ii) import any animal in violation of any legally adopted quarantine or other order or regulation adopted under this article; or (iii) violate any order or regulation adopted under this article to clean and disinfect vehicles used by them for transporting animals into or through the Commonwealth, as may be reasonably necessary to prevent the spread of contagious and infectious diseases of animals within the Commonwealth.
Code 1950, § 3-577; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-736; 1977, c. 395; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6012. Duty of operators of stockyards and poultry slaughter facilities

Any person who operates a stockyard, poultry slaughter facility, or any other premises where livestock or poultry are repeatedly assembled: (i) shall maintain such premises in a sanitary condition as directed by the State Veterinarian; (ii) shall obey all orders or regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter as to handling livestock or poultry that may be affected with contagious or infectious disease, or that have been exposed to contagious or infectious disease; and (iii) shall clean and disinfect such premises or vehicles used in connection therewith, or any part thereof, when ordered to do so by the State Veterinarian or his representative.
Code 1950, § 3-578; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-737; 1977, c. 395; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6013. Duty of officers to execute orders of the Commissioner, Board, or State Veterinarian

The Commissioner, the Board, or the State Veterinarian shall have power to call upon any law-enforcement officer, as defined in § 9.1-101, to execute their orders. Such officers shall obey the orders of the Commissioner, the Board, or the State Veterinarian.
Code 1950, § 3-579; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-738; 1977, c. 395; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6014. Circuit court judges may enforce orders of Commissioner, Board, or State Veterinarian

Upon petition by the Commissioner, the Board, or the State Veterinarian, a circuit court judge may issue orders as are necessary to enforce the orders of the Commissioner, the Board, or State Veterinarian.
1977, c. 395, § 3.1-738.1; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6015. Cooperation with U.S. Department of Agriculture to prevent contagious or infectious diseases

The Governor is authorized to accept, on behalf of the state, the rules and regulations prepared by the U.S. Department of Agriculture under and in pursuance of section three of an act of Congress approved May 29, 1884, entitled "An act for the establishment of a bureau of animal industry, to prevent the exportation of diseased cattle and to provide means for the suppression and extirpation of pleuropneumonia and other contagious diseases among domestic animals," and to cooperate with the authorities of the United States in the enforcement of the provisions of the act.
The inspectors of the U.S. Department of Agriculture shall have the right of inspection, quarantine, and condemnation of animals affected with any contagious or infectious diseases, or suspected to be so affected, or that have been exposed to any such disease, and for these purposes are authorized and empowered to enter upon any ground or premises. Such inspectors shall have the power to call on sheriffs and peace officers to assist them in the discharge of their duties in carrying out the provisions of the act of Congress aforesaid, and it is made the duty of sheriffs and peace officers to assist such inspectors when so requested, and such inspectors shall have the same powers and protection as peace officers while engaged in the discharge of their duties.
All expenses of quarantine, condemnation of animals exposed to disease, and the expenses of any and all measures that may be used to suppress and extirpate pleuropneumonia shall be paid by the United States, and in no case shall the Commonwealth be liable for any damages or expenses of any kind under the provisions of this section.
Code 1950, § 3-16; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-739.1; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6016. Altering disease control identification of livestock or poultry

It shall be unlawful for any person to, unless in accordance with regulations adopted pursuant to this article, alter, deface, change from one animal to another, mutilate, substitute, remove, misrepresent, or otherwise interfere with any tag, brand, tattoo, mark, or other identification adopted or used by any county, the Commissioner, the Board, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or any other state for the identification of any animal in the Commonwealth or shipped into the Commonwealth for the purpose of controlling or eradicating disease.
Code 1950, § 3-591; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-755; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6017. Unlawful to possess anthrax or non-inactivated classical swine fever virus without permission; report; testing of biologicals for use in livestock or poultry; rules for biologicals

A. No person shall buy, sell or have in possession, or administer to livestock, or permit any other to administer to livestock, any product or biological preparation, commonly called vaccine, containing anthrax killed, live, or as a spore, or non-inactivated classical swine fever virus, without permission in writing from the State Veterinarian for each such purchase, sale, or administration. Any person permitted to administer any such product or biological preparation shall remit to the State Veterinarian a report within 10 days of such administration showing the kind, the amount, and the make or brand of the vaccine or virus used, when and from whom purchased, where, when, and by whom administered, including all persons assisting in the administration, together with a description of all animals to which administered, including the breed, age, and sex of each animal.
B. The State Veterinarian is authorized to examine and test any biological, commonly called vaccine, intended for use in livestock or poultry to determine if it is safe, pure, potent, or effective. The Board is authorized to adopt regulations providing for the limitation, prohibition, or use of any biological intended for use in livestock or poultry.
Code 1950, § 3-592; 1962, c. 11; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-756; 1968, c. 49; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6019. Liability for damages

Any person who knowingly disregards, violates, or evades any provision of any section of this article, or of Article 2 (§ 3.2-6024 et seq.), or any regulation or order of the Commissioner, Board, State Veterinarian, or his representative, shall, in addition to the punishment otherwise provided for, or any other remedy, be liable to the owner thereof, for any damages to his livestock or poultry, occasioned by such disregarding, violating, or evading of any of such provisions, regulations, or orders.
Code 1950, § 3-582; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-740; 2002, c. 185; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6020. Appraisement of condemned cattle

All condemned cattle shall be appraised at their fair cash value by three persons, one of whom shall be appointed by the Board or State Veterinarian or his representative, one by the owner, and the third by the two thus selected. Their appraisement shall be made in writing and shall be returned to the Board.
Code 1950, § 3-585; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-750; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6021. Additional compensation to owners of euthanized or slaughtered animals; liability of purchaser of condemned animal

In addition to the amount received for the carcasses of animals euthanized or slaughtered, further compensation may be paid to the owners by the Department out of funds appropriated for that purpose at a rate not exceeding that set forth by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, provided that the total amount received by the owner shall not exceed the appraised value of such animal or animals less the amount received for slaughter.
Whenever the owner selling an animal that has been condemned is unable to obtain compensation out of state and federal appropriations because of the failure of the purchaser to furnish the seller with such proof of slaughter as may be required, the purchaser shall, in addition to the agreed purchase price, be liable to the seller for the amounts he would otherwise receive out of state and federal appropriations.
Code 1950, § 3-590; 1954, c. 437; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-754; 1968, c. 49; 1982, c. 284; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6022. Indemnity to owner for the euthanasia or slaughter of swine

At such time as the Commonwealth is approved for and becomes eligible to participate in and receive funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture pursuant to United States Public Law 87-209; 75 Stat. 481 (21 U.S.C.A. §§ 111 -113 et seq.), the Commissioner may obtain an appraisal of the fair market value of any swine destroyed pursuant to this article and indemnify the owner thereof for the value of such swine destroyed in an amount equal to the indemnity paid by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and in no event shall the total indemnity paid by the Commissioner and the U.S. Department of Agriculture exceed the appraised value of such swine. In cases where salvage is received by the owner of the swine, the amount of salvage shall be deducted from the appraised value of the swine in computing the amount of state indemnity.
Code 1950, § 3-598.9; 1966, c. 5, § 3.1-763.3; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6024. Definitions

As used in this article unless the context requires a different meaning:
"Composting" means the natural process in which beneficial microbes reduce dead poultry into a biologically safe by-product.
"Dead poultry" means poultry, exclusive of those intentionally slaughtered, that die as a result of disease, injury, or of natural causes, upon any premises in the Commonwealth.
"Disposal" means to put dead poultry into a landfill or the complete destruction of dead poultry in an incinerator or a disposal pit, or by rendering or composting.
"Disposal pit" means an opening dug in the ground to a minimum depth of six feet, containing a minimum capacity of 150 cubic feet, covered with a minimum of 12 inches of dirt, and provided with one or more openings for the introduction of poultry therein. Openings shall be of a minimum size of eight inches square and equipped with tight lids.
"Incinerator" means a device designed for treatment of waste by combustion.
"Landfill" means an area permitted by the Department of Environmental Quality allowing the disposal of dead poultry.
"Person" means any person who engages in the raising or keeping of poultry for profit in the Commonwealth.
"Poultry" means all chickens, ducks, turkeys, or other domestic fowls being raised or kept on any premises in the Commonwealth for profit.
"Premises" means the entire tract of land including the buildings thereon, owned, leased, or used by any person for the raising or keeping of poultry for profit.
"Raising or keeping of poultry for profit" means the raising or keeping of 500 or more poultry at one time for the purpose of sale of such poultry or the eggs produced therefrom.
"Rendering" means treating dead poultry according to the process described in 9 C.F.R. § 82.1.
1992, c. 101, § 3.1-742.1; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6025. Proper disposal of dead poultry required of any person raising or keeping poultry for profit

It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the raising or keeping of poultry for profit on any premises, or to enter into a contract to raise or keep poultry for profit for another person, without providing for the disposal of dead poultry using either: (i) a disposal pit; (ii) a landfill; (iii) incineration; (iv) composting; or (v) rendering.
Code 1950, § 3-583.2; 1962, c. 157; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-743; 1992, c. 101; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6026. Disposal of dead poultry

It shall be unlawful for any person engaged in the raising or keeping of poultry for profit to dispose of dead poultry on his premises in any manner except in a disposal pit, landfill, incinerator, or by composting or rendering.
Code 1950, § 3-583.4; 1962, c. 157; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-745; 1992, c. 101; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6028. Exemptions from provisions of article

The State Veterinarian may authorize disposal of dead poultry by a method other than as provided in § 3.2-6025 or 3.2-6026 if he determines that the alternative method meets standards for disposal of dead poultry.
Code 1950, § 3-583.5; 1962, c. 157; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-746; 1972, c. 90; 1992, c. 101; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6029. Regulations

The Board is authorized to adopt regulations concerning the specifications of disposal pits, incinerators, composting and rendering and all other matters within the purview and scope of this article to carry out the provisions of this article.
Code 1950, § 3-583.6; 1962, c. 157; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-747; 1992, c. 101; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6030. Applicability

Nothing in this article shall apply to the disposal of entire flocks of dead poultry governed by regulations adopted pursuant to § 3.2-6002.
1992, c. 101, § 3.1-748.1; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6031. Definitions

As used in this article, unless the context requires a different meaning:
"Garbage" means animal and vegetable wastes resulting from the handling, preparation, cooking, and consumption of foods containing animal carcasses or parts thereof. The Commissioner may in his discretion exclude from this definition such wastes that have been heat treated to the extent that the resultant material is of a uniform consistency, contains by analysis not more than 10 percent moisture, and that he has determined to be nonputrescible. Such treated nonputrescible wastes shall be "commercial feed" as the term is defined in § 3.2-4800, and shall be subject to the provisions of Chapter 48 (§ 3.2-4800 et seq.).
Code 1950, § 3-598.1; 1954, c. 506; 1956, c. 308; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-758; 1970, c. 619; 1994, c. 743; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6032. Unlawful to feed garbage to swine

No person shall feed or knowingly allow any other person to feed any garbage to swine on his premises or any premises over which he has any control.
Code 1950, § 3-598.2; 1954, c. 506; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-759; 1970, c. 619; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6033. Ordinances prohibiting feeding of certain putrescible wastes

The governing body of any locality may by ordinance prohibit the feeding to swine within its jurisdiction of putrescible wastes resulting from the handling, preparation, cooking, and consumption of foods that do not contain animal carcasses or parts thereof.
1970, c. 619, § 3.1-762.1; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6034. Commissioner to enjoin violations

The Commissioner may bring an action to enjoin the violation of any provision of this article in the circuit court of the county or city where such violation occurs.
Code 1950, § 3-598.6; 1954, c. 506; 1956, c. 308; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-763; 1970, c. 619; 2008, c. 860; 2016, c. 563.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6035. Definitions

As used in this article, unless the context requires a different meaning:
"Shooting enclosure" or "enclosure" means any fenced area open commercially to the public or any private facility where animals are held for the purpose of being shot.
"Wildlife" means any native or exotic wild animal or bird.
1995, c. 822, § 3.1-763.5:1; 2007, c. 298; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6036. Department may issue, deny, and revoke licenses

A. The Department shall issue a license for shooting enclosures only to those enclosures that were in operation on or before January 1, 1995. These enclosures shall hold only those animals described in § 3.2-6040 and as specified in regulations. The Department shall issue a license to a shooting enclosure only if it meets the requirements of this article and regulations adopted hereunder. No person shall operate an enclosure unless he has obtained a license from the Department.
B. The Department may deny, suspend, or revoke a license if the applicant for a license or a licensee, violates, or is otherwise not in compliance with this article or the regulations adopted pursuant thereto.
C. Before a shooting enclosure is licensed and throughout the duration of the license, the Department shall inspect the shooting enclosure to ensure compliance with this article or the regulations adopted pursuant thereto.
D. The State Veterinarian is authorized to seize and dispose of any livestock, as described in § 3.2-6040, found in shooting enclosures that are not licensed under this article.
E. Any person convicted of operating an unlicensed shooting enclosure shall pay all reasonable costs incurred by the Department in the seizure and disposal of any confiscated livestock.
F. It is unlawful for any person to knowingly provide livestock, as described in § 3.2-6040, to an unlicensed shooting enclosure.
1995, c. 822, § 3.1-763.5:2; 2007, c. 298; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6037. Grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of license

The Department may deny, suspend, or revoke a license to operate a shooting enclosure, if the:
1. Applicant for a license does not own or lease the land that will be used for the shooting enclosure;
2. Applicant for a license does not meet local zoning and land-use requirements;
3. Operation of the shooting enclosure poses a threat to the health of humans, wildlife, or livestock;
4. Operation of the enclosure poses a threat of harm to: (i) wildlife species, whether native or naturalized; (ii) agricultural practices; or (iii) livestock;
5. Shooting enclosure is constructed or maintained in such a way that animals being held may escape; or
6. Applicant for a license or the licensee fails to meet any requirement of this article or regulations adopted pursuant thereto.
1995, c. 822, § 3.1-763.5:3; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6038. Application and license fees; other costs

A. Any person seeking to obtain a license to operate a shooting enclosure shall pay to the Department a one-time nonrefundable application fee to be established by the Department in an amount sufficient to cover the cost of reviewing the application. The revenue generated by the fee shall be used to defray the costs of reviewing the application for a license. Upon approval of the application for a license, the applicant shall pay to the Department an annual license fee to be established by the Department in an amount sufficient to cover the costs of regulating the operation of such enclosures. Except in instances in which licenses are denied, suspended, or revoked, all licenses shall expire on June 30 of each year. License fees collected by the Department shall be used to carry out its responsibilities to regulate the operation of shooting enclosures.
B. The Department may recover from the licensee the actual costs incurred by the Department for: (i) investigating the conditions of, examining, or disposing of animals pursuant to this article; and (ii) apprehending animals that escape from a shooting enclosure.
1995, c. 822, § 3.1-763.5:4; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6039. Board to adopt regulations

A. The Board shall adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this article including the requirements for licensing and operating shooting enclosures located within the Commonwealth. In addition, the Board may adopt regulations governing the veterinary care to be provided to animals held in shooting enclosures.
B. In adopting such regulations, the Board shall establish criteria for the following:
1. Specific species of goats, sheep, and hogs that may be held;
2. Minimum contiguous acreage necessary;
3. Humane care and humane killing of animals being held;
4. Methods and procedures for disposal of animals;
5. Reporting the death of every animal being held in the shooting enclosure not killed by the clientele; and
6. Ensuring the reasonable utilization of all animals killed by the clientele.
1995, c. 822, § 3.1-763.5:5; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6040. Limitation on animals to be held

In no instance shall any animals other than goats of the genus Capri, sheep of the genera Ammotragus and Ovis, and hogs of the genus Sus, be held in enclosures. The Board shall delineate the specific species of goats, sheep, and hogs that shall be allowed to be held in an enclosure. The importation, possession, and shooting of these animals shall be in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations.
1995, c. 822, § 3.1-763.5:6; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6041. Exemption from article

Nothing in this article or any regulation adopted hereunder shall apply to shooting preserves licensed under Chapter 6 (§ 29.1-600 et seq.) of Title 29.1.
1995, c. 822, § 3.1-763.5:7; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6043. Violations; criminal penalties

A. It is unlawful for any person to violate any of the (i) provisions of this chapter or (ii) regulations adopted or quarantines established under this chapter. Any person who violates such provisions or regulations is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.
B. It is unlawful for any person to fail to allow the State Veterinarian or his representative to perform any duty required of him pursuant to this chapter. Any person who fails to allow the State Veterinarian or his representative to perform any duty required of him pursuant this chapter is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.
C. In addition to the penalties provided in subsections A and B, each day of violation of any provision of Article 3 (§ 3.2-6031 et seq.) shall constitute a separate offense.
2016, c. 563.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6044. Civil penalty

Except as provided in § 3.2-6023, in lieu of any criminal penalty established pursuant to § 3.2-6043, the Board may assess a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed $1,000 per violation. In determining the amount of any civil penalty, the Board shall give due consideration to the (i) history of the person's previous violations, (ii) seriousness of the violation, and (iii) demonstrated good faith of the person charged in attempting to achieve compliance with this chapter after notification of the violation. Such civil penalties shall be deposited into the Livestock and Poultry Disease Fund established in § 3.2-6045. The provisions of this section shall not apply to § 3.2-6023.
2016, c. 563.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 60 - Livestock and Poultry › § 3.2-6045. Livestock and Poultry Disease Fund

There is hereby created in the state treasury a special nonreverting fund to be known as the Livestock and Poultry Disease Fund, referred to in this section as "the Fund." The Fund shall be established on the books of the Comptroller. All civil penalties assessed pursuant to this chapter shall be paid into the state treasury and credited to the Fund. Interest earned on moneys in the Fund shall remain in the Fund and be credited to it. Any moneys remaining in the Fund, including interest thereon, at the end of each fiscal year shall not revert to the general fund but shall remain in the Fund. Moneys in the Fund shall be used to carry out the purposes of this chapter. Expenditures and disbursements from the Fund shall be made by the State Treasurer on warrants issued by the Comptroller upon written request signed by the Commissioner.
2016, c. 563.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 61 - Cattle Branding and Registration › § 3.2-6100. Definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:
"Brand" means any recorded identification mark applied to any position on the hide of a live animal by means of heat, freezing, acid or chemical, except tattoo marks in the ear or numbers used to keep production records, record of age or identification marks used by any governmental agency.
"Livestock market" means a place where a person assembles livestock for public sale if such person is required to procure a license or permit from the Department to operate such market.
1974, c. 642, § 3.1-796.29; 1975, c. 283; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 61 - Cattle Branding and Registration › § 3.2-6101. Authority to adopt regulations

The Commissioner, with the approval of the Board, may adopt regulations reasonably necessary to carry out the intent and purposes of this chapter and that facilitate the tracing and identification of cattle and afford protection against stealing and unlawful dealing in cattle.
1974, c. 642, § 3.1-796.36; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 61 - Cattle Branding and Registration › § 3.2-6102. Registration of brand required; transfer of brand

Any cattle owner who uses a brand to identify his cattle must register his brand by applying to the Department for such registration. The application shall be made on forms prescribed and furnished by the Department, which application shall be accompanied by a fee of $10 and a facsimile of the brand to be registered shall also be furnished by the applicant. All fees collected hereunder for registration, transfer, and reregistration of brands shall be deposited in a special fund of the state treasury for the administration of this chapter. If the brand described in the application, or one similar, or closely resembling a registered brand has not been previously registered by another cattle owner, the Department shall approve the application, register the brand in the name of the applicant and issue to the applicant a certificate of registration. In the event the Department denies registration of a brand for any reason the registration fee of $10 shall be returned to the person making application for registration. When a cattle owner, who has registered a brand with the Department, transfers such brand to another, he shall immediately notify the Department of the transfer, giving the date of transfer, and the name of the transferee. Upon receipt of the notice and a transfer fee of $3, the Department shall note such transfer in the register of brands, and such brand shall not be used by the new owner until permission has been given by the Department.
1974, c. 642, § 3.1-796.30; 1975, c. 283; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 61 - Cattle Branding and Registration › § 3.2-6103. Renewal of brand

There shall be a renewal period for recording brands that shall be once every five years. At least 90 days prior to the renewal date for a brand, the Department shall notify all persons having a registered brand of the date on which such brands must be renewed. On or before the renewal date the registered owner of a brand shall pay to the Department a renewal fee of $10 per registered brand and shall furnish any additional information the Department may require on forms to be furnished by the Department. If any cattle owner fails to renew any brand registered in his name, such brand shall be forfeited and shall be available to any other applicant.
1974, c. 642, § 3.1-796.32; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 61 - Cattle Branding and Registration › § 3.2-6105. Register of brands

The Department shall maintain a complete register of all brands, showing the name and address of the owner, and shall annually publish and distribute copies of this register as prescribed in the regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter.
1974, c. 642, § 3.1-796.34; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 61 - Cattle Branding and Registration › § 3.2-6106. Livestock market to keep copy of register and records on cattle sold

Each operator of a livestock market where cattle are sold shall: (i) keep a copy of the register of brands in his place of business where it will be easily accessible for public inspection; and (ii) keep a record, for at least two years, of all cattle received and the name and address of the owner.
1974, c. 642, § 3.1-796.35; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 61 - Cattle Branding and Registration › § 3.2-6107. Brand registration as evidence of ownership

In all suits at law or in equity, or in any criminal proceedings when the title or right of possession is involved, a copy of the certificate of brand registration verified by affidavit of the Commissioner shall be received in evidence by the court as evidence of the registration of such brand in accordance with the requirements of this chapter.
1974, c. 642, § 3.1-796.31; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 61 - Cattle Branding and Registration › § 3.2-6108. Prohibited acts

It shall be unlawful for:
1. Any person to use any brand for branding cattle unless the brand is registered with the Department;
2. Any person to obliterate, alter or deface the brand of any animals;
3. Any livestock market to receive and sell cattle unless records of such sale are kept in accordance with the requirements of this chapter; or
4. Any livestock market to fail to post a copy of the register of brands furnished to them by the Department in a place easily accessible to interested parties.
1974, c. 642, § 3.1-796.37; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 61 - Cattle Branding and Registration › § 3.2-6109. Penalties

Any person who violates any of the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. All amounts paid as fines for violations of this chapter, when collected by the proper authority, shall be transmitted to the Department and deposited in the state treasury.
1974, c. 642, § 3.1-796.38; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 62 - Equine Activity Liability › § 3.2-6201. Horse racing excluded

The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to horse racing, as that term is defined by § 59.1-365.
1991, c. 358, § 3.1-796.131; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 62 - Equine Activity Liability › § 3.2-6202. Liability limited; liability actions prohibited

A. Except as provided in § 3.2-6203, an equine activity sponsor, an equine professional, or any other person, which shall include a corporation, partnership, or limited liability company, shall not be liable for an injury to or death of a participant resulting from the intrinsic dangers of equine activities and, except as provided in § 3.2-6203, no participant, participant's parent or guardian, or representative of such parent or guardian, shall have or make any claim against or recover from any equine activity sponsor, equine professional, or any other person for injury, loss, damage, or death of the participant resulting from any of the intrinsic dangers of equine activities.
B. Except as provided in § 3.2-6203, no participant or parent or guardian of a participant who has knowingly executed a waiver of his rights to sue or agrees to assume all risks or intrinsic dangers of equine activities may maintain an action against or recover from an equine activity sponsor or an equine professional for an injury to or the death of a participant engaged in an equine activity. The waiver shall give notice to the participant of the intrinsic dangers of equine activities and may be executed at a location other than that of the equine activity. The waiver shall remain valid unless expressly revoked in writing by the participant or his parent or guardian. For purposes of this section, in the case of a minor participant, the execution of a waiver by a duly authorized representative of the parent or guardian designated in writing by the parent or guardian shall constitute a valid and knowing execution of a waiver by the parent or guardian.
1991, c. 358, § 3.1-796.132; 2003, c. 876; 2008, c. 860; 2018, c. 534.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 62 - Equine Activity Liability › § 3.2-6203. Liability of equine activity sponsors, equine professionals

No provision of this chapter shall prevent or limit the liability of an equine activity sponsor or equine professional or any other person who:
1. Intentionally injures the participant;
2. Commits an act or omission that constitutes negligence for the safety of the participant and such act or omission caused the injury, unless such participant, parent or guardian has expressly assumed the risk causing the injury in accordance with subsection B of § 3.2-6202; or
3. Knowingly provides faulty equipment or tack and such equipment or tack was faulty to the extent that it did cause the injury or death of the participant.
1991, c. 358, § 3.1-796.133; 2003, c. 876; 2008, c. 860.
2023 Code of Virginia › Title 3.2 - Agriculture, Animal Care, and Food › Chapter 63 - Ox Activity Liability › § 3.2-6300. Definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:
"Directly engages in an ox activity" means a person who rides, trains, drives, leads, or is a passenger upon an ox, whether mounted or unmounted, or on an ox drawn vehicle, but does not mean a spectator at an ox activity or a person who participates in the ox activity but does not ride, train, drive, lead, or ride as a passenger upon an ox or ox drawn vehicle.
"Ox" means a castrated bovine used for draft, recreational, educational, entertainment or display purposes and shall not include bovines raised primarily for food or fiber.
"Ox activity" means: (i) ox shows, fairs, competitions, rodeos, pulling, driving, performances, or parades; (ii) ox training or teaching activities; (iii) boarding oxen; (iv) riding, inspecting, or evaluating an ox belonging to another whether or not the owner has received some monetary consideration or other thing of value for the use of the ox or is permitting a prospective purchaser of the ox to ride, inspect, or evaluate the ox; and (v) rides, trips or other ox activities of any type however informal or impromptu that are sponsored by an ox activity sponsor.
"Ox activity sponsor" means any person or his agent who, for profit or not for profit, sponsors, organizes, or provides the facilities for an ox activity, including 4-H clubs, riding clubs, school-sponsored and college-sponsored classes and programs, therapeutic riding programs, and operators, instructors, and promoters of ox facilities, including stables, fairs, and arenas where the activity is held.
"Ox professional" means a person or his agent engaged for compensation in: (i) instructing a participant or renting to a participant an ox for the purpose of riding, driving, or being a passenger upon an ox; or (ii) renting equipment or tack to a participant.
"Participant" means any person, whether amateur or professional, who directly engages in an ox activity, whether or not a fee is paid to participate in the ox activity.
1994, c. 404, § 3.1-796.134; 2008, c. 860.