West Virginia Dog Poop Laws by County
Whether you live in the hills of Morgantown or the quiet streets of Charleston, one thing holds true across West Virginia: if you own a dog, it’s your responsibility to clean up after them. While the state doesn’t have a uniform pooper scooper law, most counties and cities have local rules in place that you need to follow.
This guide breaks down dog poop laws by county in West Virginia, so you can avoid fines, respect your neighbors, and be the responsible dog owner your pet deserves.
Is There a Statewide Dog Poop Law in West Virginia?
No, West Virginia does not have a statewide law that mandates cleaning up after your dog. However, local governments—cities, counties, and towns—enforce these rules through nuisance, sanitation, or animal control ordinances.
Failing to clean up after your dog can still lead to warnings, citations, or fines depending on where you live. It’s your job to stay informed and follow local law.
West Virginia Dog Poop Laws by County
1. Kanawha County (Charleston)
Charleston enforces cleanup rules under its municipal code. Dog owners are required to clean up feces on public sidewalks, parks, and private property that isn’t theirs.
Fines: First-time violations may lead to a warning; repeat offenses can result in a $50–$100 fine.
To keep your aging dog healthy during walks, use this dog age calculator to check their age in human years.
2. Monongalia County (Morgantown)
Morgantown has local ordinances that make it illegal to leave dog waste behind in public places or on others’ property. Waste must be picked up and disposed of properly in trash bins.
Fine: Typically $50 for the first offense and up to $200 for repeat violations.
3. Cabell County (Huntington)
Huntington’s animal control policies treat leftover dog feces as a sanitation concern. Owners must remove the waste and carry a proper disposal bag when walking their dogs in public spaces.
HOAs in many neighborhoods enforce additional rules and may issue private fines or restrictions for repeat offenders.
4. Berkeley County (Martinsburg)
Martinsburg includes dog poop cleanup as part of its public nuisance ordinance. Leaving dog poop in parks, sidewalks, or other shared spaces is prohibited.
Fine: Usually $25–$75, depending on location and whether the offense is repeated.
5. Wood County (Parkersburg)
Parkersburg mandates pet waste removal under local nuisance laws. Dogs must be leashed and owners must carry waste bags during walks. This is enforced in city parks, trails, and sidewalks.
Violators may be fined or receive citations, particularly in busy areas like parks or near schools.
6. Raleigh County (Beckley)
In Beckley, city ordinances require that pet owners clean up dog feces in public spaces. The rule is also enforced by neighborhood watch groups and HOAs that keep a close eye on dog-related issues.
Fines: $25 for the first violation, $50+ for repeated offenses.
If your dog is slowing down during walks, check their age in human years to help adjust their routine.
7. Jefferson County (Charles Town, Ranson)
Most towns in Jefferson County have public sanitation rules that include mandatory pet waste removal. Owners are expected to pick up immediately and dispose of it in a sanitary way.
Local parks and public walking trails often post signs reminding owners of the rule, and failing to comply may result in being asked to leave or issued a fine.
8. Harrison County (Clarksburg)
Clarksburg treats uncollected pet waste as a public health concern. The city enforces cleanup through its nuisance laws, and complaints from residents are taken seriously.
Enforcement is more common in high-traffic public areas like parks and apartment complexes.
Common Dog Poop Fines in West Virginia Counties
| County/City | First Offense | Repeat Offenses |
|---|---|---|
| Charleston | Warning or $50 | $100+ |
| Morgantown | $50 | $100–$200 |
| Martinsburg | $25 | $75+ |
| Parkersburg | $25–$50 | $100 |
| Beckley | $25 | $50+ |
Tips to Avoid Fines and Be a Respectful Dog Owner
- Carry at least two waste bags every time you walk your dog
- Dispose of bags in proper trash containers—not in yards or drains
- Don’t leave bags on trails or roadsides to “pick up later”
- Train your dog to go before reaching crowded public spaces
Want to understand your dog better as they age? Use this quick dog age calculator to find out how old they are in human years—it’s free and easy.
Do You Still Have to Clean Up If There Are No Signs?
Yes. Even without a visible sign, nearly all cities and counties in West Virginia expect dog owners to clean up waste. If someone reports you or if you’re seen by an officer or community warden, you could still receive a fine.
Why Dog Waste Cleanup Is So Important
Dog poop isn’t just an eyesore. It contains harmful bacteria like E. coli and parasites like roundworms. If left behind, it can contaminate soil, water, and even spread disease to other pets or people.
It’s a health risk—and a major reason why local governments are strict about enforcement.
Conclusion: Do Your Part to Keep West Virginia Clean
Whether you’re walking through Charleston, hiking near Morgantown, or living in a quiet cul-de-sac, picking up your dog’s poop is a basic part of being a responsible pet owner. Most counties in West Virginia have rules—and penalties—for leaving dog waste behind.
Be prepared, stay aware, and always bring a bag. And while you’re at it, find out your dog’s real age in human years—it’s a helpful tool for keeping your pet healthy and active at every life stage.
Let’s work together to keep West Virginia beautiful, healthy, and pet-friendly—one walk at a time.