Norfolk runs a Virginia Stormwater Management Program under Va. Code §62.1-44.15:24. Because the entire city is a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area, land disturbance of 2,500 square feet or more triggers stormwater and erosion controls, far below the statewide one-acre threshold.
Norfolk enforces the Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Program through its city code and MS4 permit, discharging into the Elizabeth River, Lafayette River, and Chesapeake Bay. Statewide the permit threshold is one acre, but every Norfolk parcel sits in a designated Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area, so under 9VAC25-875-70 any land-disturbing activity of 2,500 square feet or more must control runoff quantity and water quality. New development must recharge groundwater, treat post-construction runoff, and often use green infrastructure. In this low-lying tidal city, on-site retention also doubles as flood mitigation as sea levels rise.
Disturbing 2,500 square feet or more without an approved stormwater and erosion control plan draws a stop-work order and city enforcement. Illicit discharges to the storm sewer bring fines and mandatory cleanup.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Norfolk City, VA
Norfolk lets residents put up holiday decorations on private property without a permit. Displays just cannot block sidewalks or sight lines, create fire or e...
Norfolk City, VA
Norfolk allows small temporary signs to advertise a yard or garage sale on private property, but bars them from the public right-of-way, utility poles, and t...
Norfolk City, VA
Norfolk treats political yard signs as temporary signs under its zoning ordinance and cannot regulate their message. Signs are allowed on private property wi...
Norfolk City, VA
Norfolk runs rental inspection districts under Va. Code 36-105.1:1 and City Code Chapter 36.1. Rental homes in designated older neighborhoods must pass a cod...
Norfolk City, VA
Norfolk follows the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, not a local just-cause law. Landlords must give written notice and sue in court; a month-to...
Norfolk City, VA
Norfolk has no rent control, and it legally cannot enact any. Virginia is a strict Dillon's Rule state, so no locality may cap rent without the General Assem...
See how Norfolk City's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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