How Virginia Beach Handles Cannabis Regulations: A Practical Guide
Virginia Beach maintains 161 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with cannabis regulations. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Virginia Beach falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Cannabis Delivery Rules
Direct delivery of recreational cannabis to Virginia Beach addresses remains restricted under Virginia state law until the Cannabis Control Authority adopts retail and delivery regulations.
Key details: Adult retail delivery: Not yet authorized. Medical delivery: Licensed processors only. Gifting rule: Up to one ounce. Statute: VA Code §4.1-1102.
Selling, advertising, or delivering cannabis without a CCA or Board of Pharmacy license can result in Class 1 misdemeanor charges, felony charges for larger amounts, and asset forfeiture.
Compared to other cities, Virginia Beach takes a harder line on cannabis delivery rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Personal Cultivation Limits
Virginia Beach residents who are 21 or older can grow up to four marijuana plants for personal use, and a household can never hold more than four at any point. The plants must stay at the grower's main residence, out of public view, tagged with the grower's name and ID number, and away from anyone under 21.
Key details: Plant limit: 4 plants per household, at any point. Minimum age: 21 years or older. Where to grow: Grower's main place of residence only. Required tag: Name, license or ID number, personal-use notation. First offense, 5 to 10 plants: $250 civil penalty.
Going over the four-plant cap is where the penalties climb. Possessing more than four but no more than 10 plants brings a $250 civil penalty for a first offense, a Class 3 misdemeanor for a second offense, and a Class 2 misdemeanor for a third and any later offense. More than 10 but no more than 49 plants is a Class 1 misdemeanor. More than 49 but no more than 100 plants is a Class 6 felony. More than 100 plants is a felony carrying one to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Breaking the visibility, access or tagging conditions carries a civil penalty of no more than $25.
The Bottom Line
Virginia Beach's cannabis regulations 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, which shows when its source was last checked.