Vienna, VA Rental Property Rules: Rental Registration (2026)

The Town of Vienna does not maintain a comprehensive rental license or registration program like some larger Virginia jurisdictions (Alexandria, Arlington). Instead, rental properties within Vienna are governed by the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA, VA Code Title 55.1, Chapter 12), the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), and Town of Vienna Code property maintenance provisions. Rental units must provide functional plumbing, heating, electrical systems, weatherproofing, and working smoke detectors. Landlords must deliver premises in fit habitable condition and maintain them throughout the tenancy. Virginia is a Dillon's Rule state, meaning Vienna cannot create regulatory programs without General Assembly authorization. VA Code Section 36-105.1:1 authorizes certain localities to establish rental inspection districts for blighted areas, but Vienna has not designated such districts. Security deposits are capped at two months rent under VRLTA. Landlords must provide written disclosures regarding mold, lead-based paint (pre-1978 properties), and known defects. Tenant screening, lease terms, eviction procedures, and late fees are all governed by state law. Complaints about substandard rental conditions should be directed to Vienna Department of Planning and Zoning code enforcement.