Does Virginia Beach, VA have its own source-of-income discrimination ordinance?

No. Virginia Beach, VA does not appear to have a local source-of-income discrimination ordinance, Virginia state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from Code of Virginia.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, VA Rental Property Rules: Source-of-Income Discrimination (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Authority: VA Code §36-96.3
Effective: 2020
Voucher discrimination: Prohibited
Enforcement: VA Fair Housing Office

Summary

Since 2020, the Virginia Fair Housing Law bars landlords from refusing applicants based on lawful source of income, including Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers. Virginia Beach landlords must accept vouchers as valid income.

source of funds, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or military status; 2. Discriminate against any person in the terms, conditions, or privileges of sale or rental of a dwelling, or in the provision of services or facilities in the connection therewith to any person because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, source of funds, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or military status; 3. Make, print, or publish, or cause to be made, printed, or published any notice, statement, or advertisement, with respect to the sale or rental of a dwelling that indicates any preference, limitation, or discrimination or an intention to make any suc

Source: Code of VirginiaView official code

Full Breakdown

VA Code §36-96.3 prohibits source-of-income discrimination in housing, covering Housing Choice Vouchers, veterans benefits, Social Security, and other lawful sources. Virginia Beach landlords cannot post no-Section-8 ads, refuse to consider voucher holders, or apply different screening criteria to voucher applicants. The Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority and Virginia Beach Department of Housing and Neighborhood Preservation administer regional voucher programs. Complaints go to the Virginia Fair Housing Office, which can pursue administrative or judicial remedies including damages.

Violations & Fines

Refusing voucher holders, posting source-restricted ads, or applying disparate screening can trigger Fair Housing Office investigations, civil penalties, and tenant damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Virginia Beach landlord post 'no Section 8'?

No. Such advertising is direct evidence of unlawful source-of-income discrimination and can support a Fair Housing complaint with damages and civil penalties.

Where do I file a complaint?

Submit complaints to the Virginia Fair Housing Office within one year. Many tenants also seek help from regional legal aid in Hampton Roads.

Sources & Official References

[1]VA Code §36-96.3

Other rules in Virginia Beach

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSignificant Restrictions Repairs & HabitabilitySome Restrictions Security Deposit RulesSome Restrictions Section 8 Voucher AcceptanceFew Restrictions Rental RegistrationSignificant Restrictions Rent ControlFew Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome Restrictions Parking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsHeavy Restrictions Parking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSignificant Restrictions Fence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome Restrictions Animal Ordinances: Pet Groomer RulesSome Restrictions

All Virginia Beach rules

Compare Virginia Beach to another location·View the Virginia rental property rules overview

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