Environmental Rules in Chesapeake, VA (2026)
5 verified environmental rules for Chesapeake, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Stormwater Management
Chesapeake is subject to the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act (9VAC25-830) and Virginia Stormwater Management Program. All land-disturbing activity over 2,500 square feet requires a stormwater permit with water quality treatment meeting phosphorus load reduction standards.
Environmental: Stormwater
Heavy RestrictionsErosion Control
Chesapeake enforces the Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Law (VA Code 62.1-44.15:51) for all land-disturbing activity over 2,500 square feet. Approved E&S plans, silt fencing, and construction entrance stabilization are required before any grading begins.
Environmental: Erosion Control
Heavy RestrictionsCoastal Development
Chesapeake regulates coastal development through the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act (CBPA) program and local ordinances. The city enforces Resource Protection Areas (RPAs) with 100-foot buffers along tidal waters, wetlands, and perennial streams. Development in RPAs is heavily restricted, requiring water quality impact assessments and mitigation. The city's extensive tidal creek and wetland systems make coastal development regulations significant.
Chesapeake Wetlands Protection Rules
Heavy RestrictionsFlood Zones
Chesapeake has extensive FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas along the Elizabeth River, Intracoastal Waterway, Great Dismal Swamp, and tidal tributaries. Base Flood Elevation plus 2 feet of freeboard is required for new construction, with strict elevation and breakaway wall standards.
Environmental: Flood Zones
Heavy RestrictionsGrading & Drainage
Chesapeake grading requires a permit for any cut or fill over 100 cubic yards or land disturbance over 2,500 square feet. Positive drainage away from structures and neighbor properties is mandatory, with tidal shoreline work requiring VMRC approval.
Environmental: Grading Drainage
Some RestrictionsLooking for Chesapeake City county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Chesapeake city rules.
Environmental Rules in Chesapeake City →