Virginia Statewide Rule
Virginia Firearms Local Preemption With Limited 2020 Authority
Key Facts
- Note
- Code 15.2-915 governs firearm preemption statewide
- Note
- 2020 reforms allow firearm bans in select public spaces
- Requirement
- Conspicuous signage required at restricted locations
- Note
- Violations are Class 1 misdemeanors
- Note
- Broader local gun laws remain preempted
Summary
Virginia preempts most local firearm regulation under Code 15.2-915, but a 2020 amendment lets localities restrict firearms in specific public buildings, parks, recreation centers, and permitted events.
A. No locality shall adopt or enforce any ordinance, resolution, or motion, as permitted by § 15.2-1425, and no agent of such locality shall take any administrative action, governing the purchase, possession, transfer, ownership, carrying, storage, or transporting of firearms, ammunition, or components or combination thereof other than those expressly authorized by statute. For purposes of this section, a statute that does not refer to firearms, ammunition, or components or combination thereof shall not be construed to provide express authorization.
Full Breakdown
Virginia Code section 15.2-915 historically prohibited counties, cities, and towns from adopting any ordinance governing the purchase, possession, transfer, ownership, carrying, storage, or transporting of firearms. Effective July 1, 2020, the General Assembly enacted Chapter 1207 expanding local authority, allowing governing bodies to pass ordinances prohibiting firearms in public buildings used for governmental purposes, public parks, recreation or community centers, and at any event requiring a permit. Localities must post conspicuous notice. Outside these enumerated locations, state law continues to occupy the field, voiding broader municipal gun ordinances.
Violations & Penalties
Knowingly violating a properly adopted local firearms ordinance in a covered location is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months jail and a $2,500 fine. Conflicting local ordinances exceeding statutory authority are unenforceable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Virginia city ban guns on all public property?
Do private property rules count as local ordinances?
Sources
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