Virginia generally permits open carry of firearms by adults without a permit, though Code 18.2-287.4 restricts certain loaded high-capacity weapons in named public areas of larger localities.
Open carry of handguns and long guns is lawful for non-prohibited adults age 18 and over throughout Virginia, with state preemption under Code 15.2-915 limiting local interference. Code 18.2-287.4 makes it unlawful to carry a loaded semiautomatic rifle or shotgun with a magazine holding more than 20 rounds, or a loaded shotgun with magazine over 7 rounds, on public streets, roads, alleys, sidewalks, or public rights-of-way in cities, certain large counties including Henrico, Prince William, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Arlington, and on public property in towns within those counties.
Violating Code 18.2-287.4 is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Open carry in restricted public buildings or events under Code 15.2-915 ordinances is also a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Alexandria, VA
Alexandria prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and tow...
Alexandria, VA
Alexandria EV chargers need an electrical permit (and possibly a structural permit) via APEX. In the two locally-regulated historic districts or on 100-Year-...
Alexandria, VA
Alexandria regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Alexandria, VA
Alexandria requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Alexandria, VA
Alexandria requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Alexandria, VA
Alexandria restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuis...
See how Alexandria's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
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