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.
As a Tidewater locality, Chesapeake is fully bound by the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act (9VAC25-830) enforced by Virginia DEQ. The Virginia Stormwater Management Program (VSMP, 9VAC25-870) requires permits for any land disturbance 2,500 sq ft or greater in Bay localities (vs 10,000 sq ft elsewhere). Projects must meet the phosphorus load reduction standard (0.41 lbs/acre/year for new development, 10 percent reduction for redevelopment). Best Management Practices (BMPs) include bioretention, rain gardens, permeable pavement, and detention ponds. Chesapeake Department of Public Works reviews plans and inspects BMPs. Annual maintenance inspections required.
Stop-work order. Civil penalty up to 32,500 dollars per day per violation (VA Code 62.1-44.15:48). Restoration of disturbed areas required.
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake does not impose gas leaf blower bans or specific decibel caps. Leaf blower use is regulated by the general noise ordinance (City Code Chapter 38) ...
Chesapeake, VA
Vehicle noise in Chesapeake includes restrictions on modified exhaust, squealing tires, and loud car audio. Sound systems audible at 50 feet can be cited und...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake treats persistent dog barking as a public nuisance under City Code Chapter 10 (Animals) and Chapter 38 (Noise). Barking that continues for 20 minu...
Chesapeake, VA
Amplified music in Chesapeake must not be plainly audible at 50 feet from the source between 10 PM and 7 AM (11 PM to 8 AM on weekends). Outdoor events with ...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake fence height limits are typically 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in rear and side yards under the Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance. Corner lots and p...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake requires all dogs to be under physical restraint (leash or confinement) when off the owners property under City Code Chapter 10. Leash length is n...
See how Chesapeake's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.