Virginia Statewide Rule

Virginia Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act Coastal Buffers

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Virginia (2026)

The Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act mandates 100-foot vegetated buffers along tidal waters and tributaries in 84 covered Tidewater localities, with state-set criteria local ordinances must meet or exceed.

Key Facts

Statute: Va. Code 62.1-44.15:67
RPA Buffer: 100 feet vegetated
Septic Pumpout: Every 5 years
Coverage: Tidewater Virginia only

Source: Virginia Legislative Information System

Full Breakdown

Va. Code Section 62.1-44.15:67 et seq. designates Resource Protection Areas within Tidewater Virginia, requiring 100-foot Resource Protection Area buffers adjacent to tidal shores, perennial streams, and tidal wetlands. The Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance regulations (9VAC25-830) set performance criteria for development, redevelopment, septic pumpout requirements, and impervious cover limits. Tidewater localities listed in 62.1-44.15:68 must adopt conforming ordinances; non-Tidewater jurisdictions are not covered by the Act.

Violations & Penalties

Removing vegetation or building within RPA buffers without approval triggers restoration orders and civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation under 62.1-44.15:74.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Resource Protection Area in Virginia?

RPAs are sensitive lands within 100 feet of tidal waters, tidal wetlands, or perennial nontidal streams. Development is sharply restricted to protect Chesapeake Bay water quality.

Does the Bay Act apply to my property?

Only if you live in one of the 84 Tidewater localities listed in Section 62.1-44.15:68. Inland counties like Roanoke or Wise are not subject to the Act.

Sources

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Resource Protection Area in Virginia?

RPAs are sensitive lands within 100 feet of tidal waters, tidal wetlands, or perennial nontidal streams. Development is sharply restricted to protect Chesapeake Bay water quality.

Does the Bay Act apply to my property?

Only if you live in one of the 84 Tidewater localities listed in Section 62.1-44.15:68. Inland counties like Roanoke or Wise are not subject to the Act.