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Business Licensing & Operations in Virginia Beach, VA (2026)

3 verified business licensing & operations rules for Virginia Beach, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

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.

Massage Establishment Permits

Some Restrictions

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.

Tattoo and Body Modification Permits

Some Restrictions

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.

Tobacco Retailer License Rules

Some Restrictions

Va. Code § 18.2-371.2(C), (D), (F)

C. A violation of subsection A or B by an individual or by a separate retail establishment is punishable by a civil penalty in the amount of $500 for a first violation and a civil penalty in the amount of $2,500 for a second or subsequent violation within a three-year period. If applicable, upon a second or subsequent violation within a three-year period, the Department of Taxation may suspend ...