Newport News, VA Firearms: Local Firearms Preemption (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Source: Virginia Legislative Information System →

Recently verified

Virginia state rule: Newport News does not have a local ordinance for local firearms preemption. This topic is governed by Virginia state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Summary

Virginia preempts most local firearm regulation under Code 15.2-915, but a 2020 amendment lets localities restrict firearms in specific public buildings, parks, recreation centers, and permitted events.

Full Breakdown

Virginia Code section 15.2-915 historically prohibited counties, cities, and towns from adopting any ordinance governing the purchase, possession, transfer, ownership, carrying, storage, or transporting of firearms. Effective July 1, 2020, the General Assembly enacted Chapter 1207 expanding local authority, allowing governing bodies to pass ordinances prohibiting firearms in public buildings used for governmental purposes, public parks, recreation or community centers, and at any event requiring a permit. Localities must post conspicuous notice. Outside these enumerated locations, state law continues to occupy the field, voiding broader municipal gun ordinances.

Violations & Fines

Knowingly violating a properly adopted local firearms ordinance in a covered location is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months jail and a $2,500 fine. Conflicting local ordinances exceeding statutory authority are unenforceable.

Newport News, VA Firearms: Local Firearms Preemption (2026)

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Sources & Official References

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