Virginia Beach's Business Licensing & Operations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles business licensing & operations a little differently. In Virginia Beach, Virginia, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Tobacco Retail License

Virginia Beach tobacco retailers must hold a state retail tobacco license and a city Business Professional and Occupational License, sell only to customers 21 or older under Va. Code Section 18.2-371.2, and post required age-restriction signage.

Key details: Minimum age: 21 years. Statute: Va. Code 18.2-371.2. ID required: Under 30 buyers. First-offense fine: $100 to $500.

Sales to underage buyers carry a $100 to $500 civil penalty for first offense, $200 to $1,000 for repeat offenses, plus license suspension and possible revocation by the Virginia Department of Taxation.

Massage Establishments

Virginia Beach massage establishments must hold a city BPOL license, employ only therapists certified by the Virginia Board of Nursing under Va. Code Section 54.1-3000, comply with zoning use rules, and meet city health and safety inspection standards.

Key details: State licensing: Board of Nursing. City license: BPOL required. Statute: Va. Code 54.1-3000. Zoning: Commercial districts only.

Operating without licensed therapists or a city BPOL license is a Class 1 misdemeanor under state law, plus license revocation, civil fines, and possible business closure under city code.

Tattoo & Body Modification

Virginia Beach tattoo and body-piercing studios must register with the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation under Va. Code Section 54.1-700, obtain a city BPOL license, locate in commercial zoning, and verify customer age 18 or 16 with parental consent.

Key details: State licensing: DPOR Board. Statute: Va. Code 54.1-700. Minimum age: 18, or 16 with consent. Health inspections: VB Health Department.

Unlicensed tattooing or piercing is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months jail and a $2,500 fine, plus DPOR sanctions, civil penalties, and potential business closure.

The Bottom Line

Virginia Beach's business licensing & operations rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Virginia Beach is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Virginia Beach can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.