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.
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.
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.
Richmond, VA
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Richmond, VA
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Richmond, VA
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Richmond, VA
Outdoor kitchens in Richmond require separate trade permits from PDR Building Permits: building permit for structural elements, mechanical permit for gas lin...
Richmond, VA
Richmond has no specific city ordinance regulating residential offset smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired pizza ovens at single-family homes. Multi-unit re...
Richmond, VA
Richmond enforces the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (VSFPC), which adopts the 2018 International Fire Code. IFC §308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooki...
See how Richmond's local firearms preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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