Property Maintenance in Norfolk, VA (2026)
5 verified property maintenance rules for Norfolk, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Trash Bin Storage
Norfolk property maintenance code requires trash and recycling carts to be stored out of public view between collections. Front yard or driveway storage visible from the street can trigger code enforcement notices from Neighborhood Quality.
Property Maintenance: Trash Bins
Some RestrictionsProperty Blight
Norfolk actively enforces property blight under VA Code 36-49.1:1 and the Spot Blight Abatement program. Owners of blighted properties receive notices to repair; failure can lead to forced rehabilitation, liens, and in extreme cases city acquisition.
Property Maintenance: Property Blight
Heavy RestrictionsVacant Lot Maintenance
Norfolk requires vacant lots to be kept clear of tall grass, trash, and debris under the Virginia Maintenance Code and VA Code 15.2-901. Owners face abatement fees and liens when the city mows and cleans after notice.
Property Maintenance: Vacant Lots
Some RestrictionsVa. Code § 15.2-901
§ 15.2-901 . Locality may provide for removal or disposal of trash and clutter, cutting of grass, weeds, and running bamboo; penalty in certain counties; penalty. A. Any locality may, by ordinance, provide that: 1. The owners of property therein shall, at such time or times as the governing body may prescribe, remove therefrom any and all trash, garbage, refuse, litter, clutter, except on land ...
Snow & Sidewalk Clearing
Norfolk has no ordinance compelling homeowners to clear snow from sidewalks within a set time. The city encourages voluntary clearing for safety, and businesses in downtown and waterfront districts are expected to maintain storefront walkways.
Property Maintenance: Snow Sidewalk Clearing
Few RestrictionsGarage Sale Rules
Norfolk allows residential garage and yard sales with no permit for occasional sales. Most sales are limited to a few per year, from dawn to dusk, with no sidewalk or right-of-way obstruction.
Property Maintenance: Garage Sale Rules
Few RestrictionsLooking for Norfolk City county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Norfolk city rules.
Property Maintenance in Norfolk City →