Public Health Rules in Portsmouth, VA (2026)
2 verified public health rules for Portsmouth, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Rodent Control
Portsmouth's housing code puts pest control on the occupant, not just the landlord: Sec. 17-34(4) makes every occupant responsible for eliminating infestation on the part of the premises under their control. The code defines infestation broadly to include insects, rodents, vermin, or other pests, and violations are prosecuted as misdemeanors.
Portsmouth Occupant Duty to Control Infestation
Some RestrictionsSec. 17-34(4); Sec. 17-23
The following duties and responsibilities are hereby imposed upon every occupant of any building covered by the provisions of this article: ... (4)Every occupant shall be responsible for the elimination of infestation in and on the premises subject to his control. [Sec. 17-23:] Infestation means the presence of insects, rodents, vermin or other pests on the premises.
Food Handler Certification
Anyone who works in any capacity at a Portsmouth food establishment must first obtain a food service card from the city health director under § 15.1-19(a). Temporary cards last no more than 30 days, and employing an uncertified worker is a separate violation for the employer.
Portsmouth Food Service Card Requirement
Some RestrictionsPortsmouth City Code § 15.1-19(a)
(a)It shall be unlawful for any person to work or be employed in any capacity in any food establishment unless such person shall have first completed the requirements for, and obtained, a food service employee or food service manager card issued by the director of public health of the city or such director's authorized representatives.