Virginia Beach, VA Right to Farm: Agricultural Zoning Protection (2026)
Key Facts
- Districts
- AG-1 and AG-2 Agricultural
- Residential density cap
- 1 dwelling per 15 acres
- Min. single-family lot
- 1 acre, 150 ft width
- Agritourism by right
- Up to 250 attendees
- Farm sales bldg by right
- Up to 3,500 sq ft
Summary
AG-1 and AG-2 zoning districts protect farmland in Virginia Beach's rural south, permitting farming, agritourism and farm sales by right ahead of residential sprawl.
The purpose of the AG-1 and AG-2 Agricultural Districts is to protect and preserve agricultural lands for agricultural functions, including agritourism and the direct sale of agricultural and agricultural-related products to the public, and to protect and preserve agricultural lands and activities in the rural areas of the city in harmony with reasonable levels of rural residential development...
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 170 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City Zoning Ordinance Article 4 creates the AG-1 and AG-2 Agricultural Districts to preserve farmland south of the green line. Farming, orchards, livestock grazing and beekeeping are permitted by right; agritourism up to 250 attendees and farm-product sales up to 3,500 sq ft are also by-right. Residential density is capped at one dwelling per 15 acres, and single-family lots need a 1-acre minimum, keeping subdivision pressure off working farmland.
Violations & Fines
Uses beyond what Article 4 lists as permitted (P) require a conditional use permit from city council; unpermitted development is a zoning violation enforceable by the zoning administrator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a house on agricultural land in Virginia Beach?
Are farm stands allowed in the AG districts?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
Compare Virginia Beach to another location·View the Virginia right to farm overview
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