Virginia Pest Control Licensing Law
Virginia Code · 66 sections
The following is the full text of Virginia’s pest control licensing law statutes as published in the Virginia Code. For the official version, see the Virginia Legislature.
Va. Code § 10.1-1114
§ 10.1-1114. Establishment of nurseries; distribution of seeds and seedlings.A. The State Forester may establish and maintain a nursery or nurseries, for the propagation of forest tree seedlings, either upon one or more of the forest reservations of the Commonwealth, or upon such other land as he may and which he is empowered to acquire for that purpose. Seedlings from this nursery may be furnished to the Commonwealth without expense for use upon its state forests or other public grounds or parks. Seeds and seedlings may also be distributed to private individuals pursuant to terms and conditions and at prices approved by the State Forester. B. To the extent permitted by federal law and regulations, the preferred method of treatment shall be fumigation using methyl bromide in seedling plant beds prior to seeding. C. The Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services or his designee may issue an inspection certificate for intrastate and interstate shipments of conifer and hardwood seedlings to certify that they are apparently free of pests and diseases. Code 1950, § 10-36; 1968, c. 40; 1986, c. 567; 1988, c. 891; 2012, cc. 101, 621; 2013, c. 124.
Va. Code § 10.1-1119.7
§ 10.1-1119.7. Characteristics to be considered in evaluating impacts on farm and forest lands.A. In preparing environmental impact reports in accordance with § 10.1-1119.6, state agencies shall consider the impact of the major state project on all farm and forest lands that: 1. Have soil classified as capability class I, II, III, or IV; 2. Have an exceptional combination of physical characteristics for the production of food, feed, fiber, forest products, forage, oilseed, and other agricultural crops with minimum inputs of fuel, fertilizer, pesticides, and labor, and without intolerable soil erosion; 3. Are valuable for production of specific high-value food and fiber crops, such as fruits, vegetables, and nursery crops and have a special combination of soil quality, location, growing season, and moisture supply needed to economically produce sustained high quality or high yields of such crops when treated and managed according to acceptable farming methods; 4. Are of statewide or local importance for the production of food, feed, fiber, forest products, forage, or oilseed crops; 5. Have been recognized under a state program such as the Clean Water Farm Award Program or the Century Farm Program or Century Forest Program; 6. Are part of an agricultural or forestal district or are participating in a use value assessment and taxation program for real estate devoted to agricultural, horticultural, or forest use in accordance with the provisions of Article 4 (§ 58.1-3229 et seq.) of Chapter 32 of Title 58.1; or 7. Make a significant contribution to the local economy or the rural character of the area where the land is located. B. The governing body of each locality, with the cooperation of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, may designate the important farmlands within its jurisdiction. In designating important farmlands the governing body shall demonstrate that adequate provision has been made for nonagricultural uses within its jurisdiction. C. As used in this article, "farmland" includes all land defined as follows: "Important farmland," other than prime or unique farmland, is land that is of statewide or local importance for the production of food, feed, fiber, forage, nursery, oilseed, or other agricultural crops, as determined by the appropriate state agency or local government agency, and that the U.S. Department of Agriculture determines should be considered as farmland for the purposes of this article; "Prime farmland" is land that has the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, fiber, forage, oilseed, nursery, and other agricultural crops with minimum inputs of fuel, fertilizer, pesticides, and labor, and without intolerable soil erosion. Prime farmland includes land that possesses the above characteristics but is being used currently to produce livestock and timber. It does not include land already in or committed to urban development or water storage; and "Unique farmland" is land other than prime farmland that is used for production of specific high-value food and fiber crops, as determined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It has the special combination of soil quality, location, growing season, and moisture supply needed to economically produce sustained high quality or high yields of specific crops when treated and managed according to acceptable farming methods. 2024, cc. 10, 146. Article 3. Forest Management of State-owned Lands Fund.
Va. Code § 10.1-1308
§ 10.1-1308. Regulations.A. The Board, after having studied air pollution in the various areas of the Commonwealth, its causes, prevention, control and abatement, shall have the power to promulgate regulations, including emergency regulations, abating, controlling and prohibiting air pollution throughout or in any part of the Commonwealth in accordance with the provisions of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.), except that a description of provisions of any proposed regulation which are more restrictive than applicable federal requirements, together with the reason why the more restrictive provisions are needed, shall be provided to the standing committee of each house of the General Assembly to which matters relating to the content of the regulation are most properly referable. No such regulation shall prohibit the burning of leaves from trees by persons on property where they reside if the local governing body of the county, city or town has enacted an otherwise valid ordinance regulating such burning. The regulations shall not promote or encourage any substantial degradation of present air quality in any air basin or region which has an air quality superior to that stipulated in the regulations. Any regulations adopted by the Board to have general effect in part or all of the Commonwealth shall be filed in accordance with the Virginia Register Act (§ 2.2-4100 et seq.). B. Any regulation that prohibits the selling of any consumer product shall not restrict the continued sale of the product by retailers of any existing inventories in stock at the time the regulation is promulgated. C. Any regulation requiring the use of stage 1 vapor recovery equipment at gasoline dispensing facilities may be applicable only in areas that have been designated at any time by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as nonattainment for the pollutant ozone. For purposes of this section, gasoline dispensing facility means any site where gasoline is dispensed to motor vehicle tanks from storage tanks. D. No regulation of the Board shall require permits for the construction or operation of qualified fumigation facilities, as defined in § 10.1-1308.01. E. Notwithstanding any other provision of law and no earlier than July 1, 2024, the Board shall adopt regulations to reduce, for the period of 2031 to 2050, the carbon dioxide emissions from any electricity generating unit in the Commonwealth, regardless of fuel type, that serves an electricity generator with a nameplate capacity equal to or greater than 25 megawatts that supplies (i) 10 percent or more of its annual net electrical generation to the electric grid or (ii) more than 15 percent of its annual total useful energy to any entity other than the manufacturing facility to which the generating source is interconnected (covered unit). The Board may establish, implement, and manage an auction program to sell allowances to carry out the purposes of such regulations or may in its discretion utilize an existing multistate trading system. The Board may utilize its existing regulations to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from electric power generating facilities; however, the regulations shall provide that no allowances be issued for covered units in 2050 or any year beyond 2050. The Board may establish rules for trading, the use of banked allowances, and other auction or market mechanisms as it may find appropriate to control allowance costs and otherwise carry out the purpose of this subsection. In adopting such regulations, the Board shall consider only the carbon dioxide emissions from the covered units. The Board shall not provide for emission offsetting or netting based on fuel type. Regulations adopted by the Board under this subsection shall be subject to the requirements set out in §§ 2.2-4007.03, 2.2-4007.04, 2.2-4007.05, and 2.2-4026 through 2.2-4030 of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) and shall be published in the Virginia Register of Regulations. 1966, c. 497, §§ 10-17.16, 10-17.18; 1968, c. 311; 1969, Ex. Sess., c. 8; 1970, c. 469; 1972, c. 781; 1973, c. 251; 1980, c. 469; 1984, c. 734; 1988, cc. 26, 891; 1993, c. 456; 1997, c. 55; 2005, c. 66; 2006, c. 71; 2011, c. 393; 2020, cc. 1193, 1194.
Va. Code § 10.1-1308.01
§ 10.1-1308.01. Qualified fumigation facilities.A. For the purposes of this section, a "qualified fumigation facility" means a facility that: 1. Conducts commodity fumigation using any chemical regulated under Section 112(b) of the federal Clean Air Act of foods, products, components, livestock or materials including fumigation subject to regulation by either the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or conducts such fumigation as required by other international, federal, or state regulations or requirements; 2. Is not otherwise exempt under regulations of the Board for toxic air pollutants; 3. Has the potential to emit less than 10 tons per year of any hazardous air pollutant or 25 tons per year of any combination of hazardous air pollutants regulated by the Board pursuant to its regulations in Articles 4 (9VAC5-60-200 et seq.) and 5 (9VAC5-60-300 et seq.) of Chapter 60 (9VAC5-60); or is not otherwise subject to regulation under the provisions of the federal Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.) related to hazardous air pollutants. For determining potential to emit, "facility" means any building, structure, facility or installation that emits or may emit any regulated air pollutant. A facility shall include all of the pollutant-emitting activities that belong to the same industrial grouping, are located on one or more contiguous or adjacent properties, and are under the control of the same person or persons under common control; 4. Operates in compliance with all federal and state regulations for licensing and operation of fumigation facilities and licensing of fumigant applicators; and 5. Conducts fumigation activities that are, at a minimum, one of the following: a. Performed in buildings or locations within the facility that are no closer than 300 feet from any building, structure, or area not within the facility if such building, structure, or area is regularly occupied by the public. The conditions in this subdivision may be waived or reduced by the Department, in consultation with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services; b. Performed in buildings or containers that are sealed during fumigation and that voluntarily employ capture and control technologies for the fumigant emissions; or c. Monitored utilizing equipment and methods recognized by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, or other equipment and methods widely accepted as an industry standard, to ensure the applicable fumigant airborne concentrations referenced in the permissible exposure limits established by the Department of Labor and Industry or the parts per million standard stipulated in the federally approved pesticide labeling, whichever is more stringent, is not exceeded at the fence or property line during active fumigation and fumigation aeration. B. The operator of a qualified fumigation facility shall provide to the Department, by first-class mail, facsimile, or electronic mail: 1. A written notice prior to conducting fumigation activity at the facility that shall include: a. Exact physical location at the facility of the particular fumigation operation and distance from any building, structure, or other area regularly occupied by the public; b. Object being fumigated (e.g. rail car, truck container, warehouse, bin, storage silo, open pallet of product); c. Product being fumigated; d. Number of objects and quantity of product being fumigated; e. Containment system (e.g. tarp, sealed container); f. Fumigant to be used; g. Expected quantity of fumigant to be used; h. Expected duration of fumigation; i. Expected duration of aeration; j. Material safety data sheet (MSDS) for fumigant; and k. A brief description of capture and control device, if used pursuant to subdivision A 5 b. 2. A written report completed within four business days following the completion of the fumigation activity that shall include: a. Total quantity of fumigant actually used; b. Actual duration of aeration; and c. Monitoring results for fumigation operations conducted pursuant to subdivision A 5 c. C. Prior to the application of fumigant at the site, a facility shall post visible and legible signs at the facility fence or property line closest to any public right-of-way. The signs shall remain in place until completion of the aeration process and shall conform to the format for placards mandated by the federally approved fumigant label. D. In-transit fumigations where the planned aeration is scheduled to occur outside of the Commonwealth are not subject to Board regulations. 2011, c. 393.
Va. Code § 10.1-1400
§ 10.1-1400. Definitions.As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning: "Advanced recycling" means a manufacturing process for the conversion of post-use polymers and recovered feedstocks into basic hydrocarbon raw materials, feedstocks, chemicals, liquid fuels, waxes, lubricants, or other products through processes that include pyrolysis, gasification, depolymerization, reforming, hydrogenation, solvolysis, catalytic cracking, and similar processes. "Advanced recycling" produces recycled products, including monomers, oligomers, plastics, plastics and chemical feedstocks, basic and unfinished chemicals, crude oil, naphtha, liquid transportation fuels, coatings, waxes, lubricants, and other basic hydrocarbons. "Advanced recycling facility" means a facility that, using advanced recycling, receives, stores, and converts post-use polymers and recovered feedstocks that it receives. An "advanced recycling facility" shall be subject to all applicable federal and state environmental laws and regulations. "Applicant" means any and all persons seeking or holding a permit required under this chapter. "Board" means the Virginia Waste Management Board. "Composting" means the manipulation of the natural aerobic process of decomposition of organic materials to increase the rate of decomposition. "Department" means the Department of Environmental Quality. "Depolymerization" means a manufacturing process in which post-use polymers are broken into smaller molecules, including monomers and oligomers; raw, intermediate, or final products; plastics and chemical feedstocks; basic and unfinished chemicals; crude oil; naphtha; liquid transportation fuels; waxes; lubricants; coatings; and other products. "Director" means the Director of the Department of Environmental Quality. "Disclosure statement" means a sworn statement or affirmation, in such form as may be required by the Director, which includes: 1. The full name and business address of all key personnel; 2. The full name and business address of any entity, other than a natural person, that collects, transports, treats, stores, or disposes of solid waste or hazardous waste in which any key personnel holds an equity interest of five percent or more; 3. A description of the business experience of all key personnel listed in the disclosure statement; 4. A listing of all permits or licenses required for the collection, transportation, treatment, storage, or disposal of solid waste or hazardous waste issued to or held by any key personnel within the past 10 years; 5. A listing and explanation of any notices of violation, prosecutions, administrative orders (whether by consent or otherwise), license or permit suspensions or revocations, or enforcement actions of any sort by any state, federal, or local authority, within the past 10 years, that are pending or have concluded with a finding of violation or entry of a consent agreement, regarding an allegation of civil or criminal violation of any law, regulation, or requirement relating to the collection, transportation, treatment, storage, or disposal of solid waste or hazardous waste by any key personnel, and an itemized list of all convictions within 10 years of key personnel of any of the following crimes punishable as felonies under the laws of the Commonwealth or the equivalent thereof under the laws of any other jurisdiction: murder; kidnapping; gambling; robbery; bribery; extortion; criminal usury; arson; burglary; theft and related crimes; forgery and fraudulent practices; fraud in the offering, sale, or purchase of securities; alteration of motor vehicle identification numbers; unlawful manufacture, purchase, use or transfer of firearms; unlawful possession or use of destructive devices or explosives; violation of the Drug Control Act (§ 54.1-3400 et seq.); racketeering; or violation of antitrust laws; 6. A listing of all agencies outside the Commonwealth that have regulatory responsibility over the applicant or have issued any environmental permit or license to the applicant within the past 10 years, in connection with the applicant's collection, transportation, treatment, storage, or disposal of solid waste or hazardous waste; 7. Any other information about the applicant and the key personnel that the Director may require that reasonably relates to the qualifications and ability of the key personnel or the applicant to lawfully and competently operate a solid waste management facility in Virginia; and 8. The full name and business address of any member of the local governing body or planning commission in which the solid waste management facility is located or proposed to be located, who holds an equity interest in the facility. "Disposal" means the discharge, deposit, injection, dumping, spilling, leaking, or placing of any solid waste into or on any land or water so that such solid waste or any constituent thereof may enter the environment or be emitted into the air or discharged into any waters, including ground waters. "Equity" includes both legal and equitable interests. "Federal acts" means any act of Congress providing for waste management and regulations promulgated thereunder. "Gasification" means a manufacturing process through which recovered feedstocks are heated and converted in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere into a fuel and gas mixture that is then converted to crude oil, diesel fuel, gasoline, home heating oil, ethanol, transportation fuel, other fuels, chemicals, waxes, lubricants, chemical feedstocks, diesel and gasoline blendstocks, or other valuable raw, intermediate, or final products that are returned to economic utility in the form of raw materials, products, or fuels. "Hazardous material" means a substance or material in a form or quantity that may pose an unreasonable risk to health, safety, or property when transported, and which the U.S. Secretary of Transportation has so designated by regulation or order. "Hazardous substance" means a substance listed under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act, P.L. 96-510. "Hazardous waste" means a solid waste or combination of solid waste that because of its quantity, concentration or physical, chemical, or infectious characteristics may: 1. Cause or significantly contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible or incapacitating illness; or 2. Pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported, disposed of, or otherwise managed. "Hazardous waste generation" means the act or process of producing hazardous waste. "Household hazardous waste" means any waste material derived from households (including single and multiple residences, hotels, motels, bunkhouses, ranger stations, crew quarters, campgrounds, picnic grounds, and day-use recreation areas) which, except for the fact that it is derived from a household, would be classified as a hazardous waste, including nickel, cadmium, mercuric oxide, manganese, zinc-carbon or lead batteries; solvent-based paint, paint thinner, paint strippers, or other paint solvents; any product containing trichloroethylene, toxic art supplies, used motor oil and unusable gasoline or kerosene, fluorescent or high intensity light bulbs, ammunition, fireworks, banned pesticides, or restricted-use pesticides as defined in § 3.2-3900. All empty household product containers and any household products in legal distribution, storage, or use shall not be considered household hazardous waste. "Key personnel" means the applicant itself and any person employed by the applicant in a managerial capacity, or empowered to make discretionary decisions, with respect to the solid waste or hazardous waste operations of the applicant in Virginia, but does not include employees exclusively engaged in the physical or mechanical collection, transportation, treatment, storage, or disposal of solid or hazardous waste and such other employees as the Director may designate by regulation. If the applicant has not previously conducted solid waste or hazardous waste operations in Virginia, "key personnel" also includes any officer, director, or partner of the applicant, or any holder of five percent or more of the equity or debt of the applicant. If any holder of five percent or more of the equity or debt of the applicant or of any key personnel is not a natural person, "key personnel" includes all key personnel of that entity, provided that where such entity is a chartered lending institution or a reporting company under the Federal Securities Exchange Act of 1934, "key personnel" does not include key personnel of such entity. Provided further that "key personnel" means the chief executive officer of any agency of the United States or of any agency or political subdivision of the Commonwealth and all key personnel of any person, other than a natural person, that operates a landfill or other facility for the disposal, treatment, or storage of nonhazardous solid waste under contract with or for one of those governmental entities. "Manifest" means the form used for identifying the quantity, composition, origin, routing, and destination of hazardous waste during its transportation from the point of generation to the point of disposal, treatment, or storage of such hazardous waste. "Mixed radioactive waste" means radioactive waste that contains a substance that renders the mixture a hazardous waste. "Open dump" means a site on which any solid waste is placed, discharged, deposited, injected, dumped, or spilled so as to create a nuisance or present a threat of a release of harmful substances into the environment or present a hazard to human health. "Person" includes an individual, corporation, partnership, association, governmental body, municipal corporation, or any other legal entity. "Post-use polymer" means a plastic polymer that: 1. Is derived from any industrial, commercial, agricultural, or domestic activity. 2. Is processed at an advanced recycling facility or held at such facility prior to processing. 3. Is used or intended for use as a feedstock to manufacture crude oil, fuels, feedstocks, blendstocks, raw materials, or other intermediate products or final products, using advanced recycling. 4. Is not mixed with solid waste or hazardous waste on site or during processing at the advanced recycling facility at which it is processed. 5. Has been sorted from solid waste and other regulated waste but may contain residual amounts of (i) solid wastes, such as organic material, and (ii) incidental contaminants or impurities, such as paper labels or metal rings. "Pyrolysis" means a manufacturing process through which post-use polymers are heated in the absence of oxygen until melted and thermally decomposed and are then cooled, condensed, and converted to crude oil, diesel fuel, gasoline, home heating oil, ethanol, transportation fuel, other fuels, chemicals, waxes, lubricants, chemical feedstocks, diesel and gasoline blendstocks, or other valuable raw, intermediate, or final products that are returned to economic utility in the form of raw materials, products, or fuels. "Radioactive waste" or "nuclear waste" includes: 1. "Low-level radioactive waste" material that: a. Is not high-level radioactive waste, spent nuclear fuel, transuranic waste, or by-product material as defined in § 11(e)(2) of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C. § 2014(e)(2)); and b. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission, consistent with existing law, classifies as low-level radioactive waste; or 2. "High-level radioactive waste," which means: a. The highly radioactive material resulting from the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel, including liquid waste produced directly in reprocessing and any solid material derived from such liquid waste that contains fission products in sufficient concentrations; and b. Other highly radioactive material that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, consistent with existing law, determines by rule requires permanent isolation. "Recovered feedstock" means one or more of the following materials that has been processed so that it can be used as feedstock in an advanced recycling facility: 1. Post-use polymers. 2. Materials for which the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has made a nonwaste determination under 40 C.F.R. § 241.3(c) or has otherwise determined are feedstocks and not solid waste. "Recovered feedstock" does not include unprocessed municipal solid waste and is not mixed with solid waste or hazardous waste on site or during processing at an advanced recycling facility. "Recycling residue" means the (i) nonmetallic substances, including plastic, rubber, and insulation, that remain after a shredder has separated for purposes of recycling the ferrous and nonferrous metal from a motor vehicle, appliance, or other discarded metallic item and (ii) organic waste remaining after removal of metals, glass, plastics, and paper that are to be recycled as part of a resource recovery process for municipal solid waste resulting in the production of a refuse derived fuel. "Resource conservation" means reduction of the amounts of solid waste that are generated, reduction of overall resource consumption, and utilization of recovered resources. "Resource recovery" means the recovery of material or energy from solid waste. "Resource recovery system" means a solid waste management system that provides for collection, separation, recycling, and recovery of solid wastes, including disposal of nonrecoverable waste residues. "Sanitary landfill" means a disposal facility for solid waste so located, designed, and operated that it does not pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment, including pollution of air, land, surface water, or ground water. "Sludge" means any solid, semisolid, or liquid wastes with similar characteristics and effects generated from a public, municipal, commercial, or industrial wastewater treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, air pollution control facility, or any other waste-producing facility. "Solid waste" means any garbage, refuse, sludge, and other discarded material, including solid, liquid, semisolid, or contained gaseous material, resulting from industrial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations, or community activities, but does not include (i) solid or dissolved material in domestic sewage; (ii) solid or dissolved material in irrigation return flows or in industrial discharges that are sources subject to a permit from the State Water Control Board; (iii) source, special nuclear, or by-product material as defined by the Federal Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended; or (iv) post-use polymers or recovered feedstocks that are (a) processed at an advanced recycling facility or (b) held at or held for the purpose of conversion at such advanced recycling facility prior to conversion. "Solid waste management facility" means a site used for planned treating, long-term storage, or disposing of solid waste. A "solid waste management facility" may consist of several treatment, storage, or disposal units. "Solvolysis" means a manufacturing process through which post-use polymers are purified with the aid of solvents, allowing additives and contaminants to be removed. The products of solvolysis are polymers capable of being recycled or reused without first being reverted to a monomer. "Solvolysis" includes hydrolysis, aminolysis, ammonolysis, methanolysis, and glycolysis. "Transport" or "transportation" means any movement of property and any packing, loading, or unloading or storage incidental thereto. "Treatment" means any method, technique, or process, including incineration or neutralization, designed to change the physical, chemical, or biological character or composition of any waste to neutralize it or to render it less hazardous or nonhazardous, safer for transport, amenable to recovery or storage, or reduced in volume. "Vegetative waste" means decomposable materials generated by yard and lawn care or land-clearing activities and includes, but is not limited to, leaves, grass trimmings, and woody wastes such as shrub and tree prunings, bark, limbs, roots, and stumps. "Waste" means any solid, hazardous, or radioactive waste as defined in this section. "Waste management" means the collection, source separation, storage, transportation, transfer, processing, treatment, and disposal of waste or resource recovery. "Waste management" does not include pyrolysis, gasification, depolymerization, solvolysis, or any other advanced recycling process if the source materials used in such process are composed of post-use polymers or recovered feedstocks. "Yard waste" means decomposable waste materials generated by yard and lawn care and includes leaves, grass trimmings, brush, wood chips, and shrub and tree trimmings. "Yard waste" does not include roots or stumps that exceed six inches in diameter. 1986, c. 492, §§ 10-264, 10-268; 1987, c. 120; 1988, cc. 117, 891; 1990, cc. 499, 781, 919; 1993, cc. 214, 215, 496; 1996, c. 236; 1997, c. 294; 2001, c. 569; 2003, c. 620; 2009, c. 27; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 375.
Va. Code § 2.2-4314
§ 2.2-4314. Petition for procurement of less toxic goods and products; periodic review of procurement standards.A. As used in this section: "Goods and products" means goods and products that are used or consumed by an agency of the Commonwealth in the performance of its statutory functions. The term shall include, but not be limited to (i) cleaning materials, (ii) paints and coatings, (iii) solvents, (iv) adhesives, (v) inks, and (vi) pesticides and herbicides. The term shall not include: (i) fuels, (ii) food and beverages, (iii) furniture and fixtures, (iv) tobacco products, and (v) packaging and containers. "Less toxic goods and products" means goods and products that (i) are functionally equivalent to and (ii) contain, emit, produce, or generate, less toxic or hazardous substances, or other toxic or hazardous substances that pose less of a hazard to public health and safety, or both, than goods and products procured by the Department of General Services or other agency of the Commonwealth. "Toxic or hazardous substance" means (i) a chemical identified on the Toxic Chemical List established pursuant to § 313 of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, 42 U.S.C. § 11001 et seq. (P.L. 99-499) or (ii) a chemical listed pursuant to §§ 101 (14) or 102 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. § 9601 et seq. (P.L. 92-500). B. Any person who manufactures, sells, or supplies goods or products may petition the Department of General Services or other appropriate agency of the Commonwealth for the inclusion of the less toxic goods and products in its procurement process. The petitioner shall submit, prior to or during the procurement process, documentation that establishes that the goods or products meet the performance standards set forth in the applicable specifications. If the Department of General Services or other agency of the Commonwealth that receives the petition determines that the documentation establishes that the less toxic goods or products meet the performance standards set forth in the applicable specifications, it shall incorporate such goods or products into its procurement process. C. The Department of General Services and all agencies of the Commonwealth shall review and revise their procurement procedures and specifications on a continuing basis to encourage the use of less toxic goods and products. However, nothing in this section shall require the Department or other agencies to purchase, test or evaluate any particular goods or products. Nor shall this section require the Department to purchase goods or products other than those that would be purchased under regular procurement procedures. 1994, c. 946, § 11-41.02; 2001, c. 844.
Va. Code § 22.1-132.2
§ 22.1-132.2. Integrated pest management on school property.The Department of Education shall make information available to school boards on integrated pest management programs that appropriately address the application of chemical pesticides and other pest control measures on school property. For purposes of this section, "integrated pest management" shall mean a managed pest control and suppression program that uses various integrated methods to keep pests from causing economic, health-related, or aesthetic injury and minimizes the use of pesticides and the risk to human health and the environment associated with pesticide applications. Methods may include the utilization of site or pest inspections, pest population monitoring, evaluation of control requirements, and the use of one or more pest control methods including sanitation, structural repair, nonchemical methods, and pesticides when nontoxic options produce unsatisfactory results or are impractical. Each local school division shall maintain documentation of any pesticide application that includes the target pest, the formulation applied, and the specific location of the application. The guidelines and programs adopted pursuant to this section shall permit the immediate application of pesticides or other effective control measures to eradicate pest infestations that pose an acute danger to students and staff. 2009, c. 440; 2010, c. 40.
Va. Code § 3.2-102
§ 3.2-102. General powers and duties of the Commissioner.A. The Commissioner shall be vested with the powers and duties set out in § 2.2-601, the powers and duties herein provided, and such other powers and duties as may be prescribed by law, including those prescribed in Title 59.1. He shall be the executive officer of the Board, and shall see that its orders are carried out. He shall see to the proper execution of laws relating to the Department. Unless the Governor expressly reserves such power to himself, the Commissioner shall promote, protect, and develop the agricultural interests of the Commonwealth. The Commissioner shall develop, implement, and maintain programs within the Department including those that promote the development and marketing of the Commonwealth's agricultural products in domestic and international markets, including promotions, market development and research, marketing assistance, market information, and product grading and certification; promote the creation of new agribusiness including new crops, biotechnology and new uses of agricultural products, and the expansion of existing agribusiness within the Commonwealth; develop, promote, and maintain consumer protection programs that protect the safety and quality of the Commonwealth's food supply through food and dairy inspection activities, industry and consumer education, and information on food safety; work with other state agencies to preserve the Commonwealth's agricultural lands; ensure animal health and protect the Commonwealth's livestock industries through disease control and surveillance, maintaining animal health diagnostic laboratories, and encouraging the humane treatment and care of animals; protect public health and the environment through regulation and proper handling of pesticides, agricultural stewardship, and protection of endangered plant and insect species; protect crop and plant health and productivity; ensure consumer protection and fair trade practices in commerce; develop plans and emergency response protocols to protect the agriculture industry from bioterrorism, plant and animal diseases, and agricultural pests; assist as directed by the Governor in the Commonwealth's response to natural disasters; develop and implement programs and inspection activities to ensure that the Commonwealth's agricultural products move freely in trade domestically and internationally; and enter into agreements with federal, state, and local governments, land grant universities, and other organizations that include marketing, plant protection, pest control, pesticides, and meat and poultry inspection. B. In addition, the Commissioner shall: 1. Establish and maintain a farm-to-school website. The purpose of the website shall be to facilitate and promote the purchase of Virginia farm products by schools, universities, and other educational institutions under the jurisdiction of the State Department of Education. The website shall present such current information as the availability of Virginia farm products, including the types and amount of products, and the names of and contact information for farmers, farm organizations, and businesses marketing such products; 2. Establish and operate a nonprofit, nonstock corporation under Chapter 10 (§ 13.1-801 et seq.) of Title 13.1 as a public instrumentality exercising public and essential governmental functions to promote, develop, and sustain markets for licensed Virginia wineries and farm wineries, as defined in § 4.1-100. Such corporation shall provide wholesale wine distribution services for wineries and farm wineries licensed in accordance with § 4.1-206.1. The board of directors of such corporation shall be composed of the Commissioner and four members appointed by the Board, including one owner or manager of a winery or farm winery licensee that is not served by a wholesaler when the owner or manager is appointed to the board; one owner or manager of a winery or farm winery licensee that produces no more than 10,000 cases per year; and two owners or managers of wine wholesaler licensees. In making appointments to the board of directors, the Board shall consider nominations of winery and farm winery licensees submitted by the Virginia Wineries Association and wine wholesale licensees submitted by the Virginia Wine Wholesalers Association. The Commissioner shall require such corporation to report to him at least annually on its activities, including reporting the quantity of wine distributed for each winery and farm winery during the preceding year. The provisions of the Virginia Public Procurement Act (§ 2.2-4300 et seq.) shall not apply to the establishment of such corporation nor to the exercise of any of its powers granted under this section; 3. Establish and operate a nonprofit, nonstock corporation under Chapter 10 (§ 13.1-801 et seq.) of Title 13.1 as a public instrumentality exercising public and essential governmental functions to promote, develop, and sustain markets for Virginia breweries and limited breweries. Such corporation shall provide wholesale beer distribution services for Virginia breweries and limited breweries licensed in accordance with § 4.1-206.1. The board of directors of such corporation shall be composed of the Commissioner and four members appointed by the Board, (i) two of whom shall be an owner or manager of a Virginia beer wholesale licensee, (ii) one of whom shall be an owner or manager of a brewery or limited brewery licensee, and (iii) one of whom shall be an owner or manager of a brewery or limited brewery licensee that is not served by a wholesaler at the time such owner or manager is appointed to the board of directors. In making appointments to the board of directors, the Board shall consider nominations submitted by the Virginia Beer Wholesalers Association regarding members listed in clause (i) and nominations submitted by the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild regarding members listed in clauses (ii) and (iii). At least annually, such corporation shall be required to report to the Commissioner on its activities, including reporting the quantity of beer distributed for each brewery or limited brewery licensee during the preceding year. The Commissioner shall report such information to the General Assembly. The provisions of the Virginia Public Procurement Act (§ 2.2-4300 et seq.) shall not apply to the establishment of such corporation nor to the exercise of any of its powers granted under this section; 4. Promulgate regulations in accordance with the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) not inconsistent with the laws of Virginia necessary to carry out the provisions of Article 1.1:1 (§ 18.2-340.15 et seq.) of Chapter 8 of Title 18.2. Such regulations may include penalties for violations; and 5. Ensure that the Department compiles and publishes the annual report relating to foreign adversary ownership of agricultural land required under § 55.1-509. Code 1950, §§ 3-7, 3-9, 3-13; 1966, c. 702, §§ 3.1-8, 3.1-10, 3.1-14; 1971, Ex. Sess., c. 34; 1975, c. 260; 1977, c. 186; 1978, cc. 219, 540; 1982, c. 150; 1985, c. 397; 1993, c. 455; 1994, cc. 261, 370; 1995, c. 10; 1996, c. 996; 2005, c. 633; 2007, cc. 352, 870, 932, §§ 3.1-14.4, 3.1-14.01; 2008, c. 860; 2012, cc. 803, 835; 2020, cc. 1113, 1114; 2022, cc. 554, 609; 2023, cc. 597, 765, 796; 2024, cc. 10, 146.
Va. Code § 3.2-108.1
§ 3.2-108.1. Virginia Pollinator Protection Strategy.A. The Department shall develop and maintain a Virginia Pollinator Protection Strategy (the Strategy) to (i) promote the health of and mitigate the risks to all pollinator species and (ii) ensure a robust agriculture economy and apiary industry for honeybees and other managed pollinators. B. In developing the Strategy, the Department shall seek the assistance of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Department of Wildlife Resources, and the Department of Environmental Quality and shall establish a stakeholder group composed of representatives of affected groups, including beekeepers, agricultural producers, commercial pesticide applicators, private pesticide applicators, pesticide manufacturers, retailers, lawn and turf service providers, agribusiness and farmer organizations, conservation interests, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia State University, and the Virginia Cooperative Extension. C. The Strategy shall include a plan for the protection of managed pollinators that provides voluntary best management practices for pesticide users, beekeepers, and landowners and agricultural producers. The protection plan shall support: 1. Communication between beekeepers and applicators; 2. Reduction of the risk to pollinators from pesticides; 3. Increases in pollinator habitat; 4. Maintenance of existing compliance with state pesticide use requirements; 5. Identification of needs for further research to promote robust agriculture and apiary industries; and 6. Identification of additional opportunities for education and outreach on pollinators. 2016, c. 11; 2020, c. 958.
Va. Code § 3.2-109
§ 3.2-109. Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services; appointments; qualifications; terms of office.The Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services is established as a policy board, within the meaning of § 2.2-2100, in the executive branch of state government and may adopt regulations in accordance with the provisions of this title. The Board shall consist of (i) one member from each congressional district, at least eight of whom shall be currently practicing farmers, and (ii) two at-large members, one of whom shall be a structural commercial applicator of pesticides and one of whom shall be engaged in the commercial sale or application of agricultural pesticides; all members to be appointed by the Governor for a term of four years and confirmed by the General Assembly. The presidents of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Virginia State University or their designees shall be ex officio members of the Board with voting privileges. All members of the Board shall be citizens of the Commonwealth. No member of the Board, except the ex officio members, shall be eligible for more than two successive terms; provided that persons appointed to fill vacancies may serve two additional successive terms after the terms of the vacancies they were appointed to fill have expired. All vacancies in the membership of the Board shall be filled by the Governor for the unexpired term. Code 1950, § 3-1; 1952, c. 175; 1956, c. 37; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-1; 1971, Ex. Sess., c. 135; 1978, c. 219; 1985, c. 397; 1992, c. 121; 2008, c. 860; 2011, cc. 98, 185; 2012, cc. 803, 835.
Va. Code § 3.2-3800
§ 3.2-3800. Definitions.As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning: "Dealer" means any person that acquires nursery stock for the purpose of resale and distribution who is not a grower of nursery stock. "Inspection certificate" means a document in any form issued by the Commissioner, or the appropriate official from another state, declaring an item or location to be apparently free from plant pests. Inspection certificates include nursery stock certificates, phytosanitary stock certificates, state-of-origin certificates, or any other certification tags, seals, and stamps that verify compliance with this chapter or any regulations adopted hereunder. "Nursery" means any premises where nursery stock is propagated, grown, fumigated, treated, packed, stored, or otherwise prepared for sale or distribution. "Nursery stock" means all trees, shrubs, woody vines (including ornamentals), bush fruits, grapevines, fruit trees, and nut trees offered for sale and distribution; all buds, grafts, scions, and cuttings from such plants; and any container, soil, and other packing material with such plants or plant products. It shall also mean herbaceous plants (including strawberry plants, narcissus plants, and narcissus bulbs) if the Board determines that controlling the movement of such plants or bulbs is necessary to control any plant pest. Unless designated by the Board, nursery stock shall not include florist or greenhouse plants for inside culture or use. "Nurseryman" means any person that produces nursery stock for sale or distribution. "Person" means the term as defined in § 1-230. The term also means any society. "Plant pest" means any living stage of insects, mites, nematodes, slugs, snails, protozoa, other invertebrate animals, bacteria, fungi, other parasitic plants, parasitic plant parts, viruses, any other similar organism, or any infectious substances that can injure, infect, or damage any plants or plant products. "Plants or plant products" means any trees, shrubs, vines, forage, fiber, cereal, and all other plants; cuttings, grafts, scions, buds, and all other plant parts; fruit, vegetables, roots, bulbs, seeds, wood, lumber, and all other plant products; or any container, soil, and packing material with plants or plant products. Code 1950, § 3-178.1; 1964, c. 476; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-135; 1980, c. 291, § 3.1-188.32; 1988, c. 552; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3900
§ 3.2-3900. Definitions.As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning: "Active ingredient" means (in the case of a pesticide other than a plant regulator, defoliant, desiccant, or anti-desiccant) an ingredient that will prevent, destroy, repel, or mitigate insects, fungi, rodents, weeds, or other pests. "Agricultural commodity" means any plant or part thereof, animal, or animal product, produced by a person (including farmers, ranchers, vineyardists, plant propagators, Christmas tree growers, aquaculturists, floriculturists, orchardists, foresters, nurserymen, wood treaters not for hire, or other comparable persons) primarily for sale, consumption, propagation, or other use by man or animals. "Certificate" means the document issued to a certified applicator or registered technician who has completed all the requirements of Article 3. "Certification" or "certified" means the recognition granted by the Board to an applicator who has completed all the requirements of Article 3. "Certified applicator" means a person who: (i) has satisfactorily completed the Board requirements for certification as a commercial applicator, registered technician, or private applicator; and (ii) has been issued a valid certificate. "Commercial applicator" means any person who has completed the requirements for certification to use or supervise the use of any pesticide for any purpose or on any property other than as provided in the definition of private applicator. "Defoliant" means any substance or mixture of substances intended for causing the leaves or foliage to drop from a plant, with or without causing abscission. "Desiccant" means any substance or mixture of substances intended for artificially accelerating the drying of plant tissue. "Device" means any instrument or contrivance intended for: (i) trapping, destroying, repelling, or mitigating insects or rodents; or (ii) destroying, repelling, or mitigating fungi, bacteria, weeds or other pests as may be designated by the Commissioner. Device shall not include treated wood products, simple mechanical devices such as rattraps, or equipment used for the application of pesticide when sold separately. "Fumigant" means any substance or mixture of substances that emits or liberates gases, fumes, or vapors capable of destroying vermin, rodents, insects, and other pests. "Fungicide" means any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any fungi or plant disease. "Herbicide" means any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any weed. "Ingredient statement" or "guaranteed analysis statement" means a statement containing: (i) the name and percentage of each active ingredient; (ii) the total percentage of the inert ingredients; and (iii) if the pesticide contains arsenic in any form, the percentages of total and water soluble arsenic. "Insect" means any small invertebrate animal generally having a segmented form and belonging to the class Insecta including beetles, bugs, and bees. For purposes of this act, the term insect shall also mean classes of arthropods whose members are usually wingless and have more than six legs including spiders, mites, ticks, centipedes, and wood lice. "Insecticide" means any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any insects that may be present in any environment whatsoever. "Label" means the written, printed or graphic matter on, or attached to, the pesticide or device, or the immediate container thereof, and the outside container or wrapper of the retail package, if any, of the pesticide or device. "Labeling" means all labels and other written, printed, or graphic matter: (i) upon the pesticide or device or any of its containers or wrappers; (ii) accompanying the pesticide or device at any time; or (iii) referenced on the label or in literature accompanying the pesticide or device. Labeling shall not include current official publications of the agricultural experiment station, the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, the Department, the State Board of Health, or similar federal or state institutions when accurate, nonmisleading reference is made to such official publications and such agencies are authorized by law to conduct research in the field of pesticides. "Licensed" or "licensee" means a person issued a license by the Board to engage in the sale, storage, distribution, recommendation, or application of pesticides for compensation. "Pest" means any deleterious organism that is: (i) any vertebrate animal other than man; (ii) any invertebrate animal excluding any internal parasite of living man or other living animals; (iii) any plant growing where not wanted, and any plant part such as a root; or (iv) any bacterium, virus, or other microorganisms (except for those on or in living man or other living animals and those on or in processed food or processed animal feed, beverages, drugs as defined by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act at 21 U.S.C. § 321 (g)(1), and cosmetics as defined by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act at 21 U.S.C. § 321 (i)). Any organism classified as endangered, threatened, or otherwise protected under federal or state laws shall not be deemed a pest for the purposes of this chapter. "Pesticide" means: (i) any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any insects, rodents, fungi, bacteria, weeds, other forms of plant or animal life, bacterium, or viruses, except viruses on or in living man or other animals, which the Commissioner shall declare to be a pest; (ii) any substance or mixture of substances intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant; and (iii) any substance intended to become an active ingredient in any substance defined in clause (i) and (ii). "Pesticide business" means any person engaged in the business of: distributing, applying or recommending the use of a product; or storing, selling, or offering for sale pesticides directly to the user. The term "pesticide business" does not include: (i) wood treaters not for hire; (ii) seed treaters not for hire; (iii) operations that produce agricultural products, unless the owners or operators of such operations described in clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) are engaged in the business of selling or offering for sale pesticides, or distributing pesticides to persons outside of that agricultural producing operation in connection with commercial transactions; or (iv) businesses exempted by regulations adopted by the Board. "Plant regulator" means any substance or mixture of substances, intended through physiological action, for accelerating or retarding the rate of growth or rate of maturation, or for otherwise altering the behavior of ornamental or crop plants or the produce thereof, but shall not include substances to the extent that they are intended as plant nutrients, trace elements, nutritional chemicals, plant inoculants, and soil amendments. "Private applicator" means an individual who uses or supervises the use of any pesticide that is classified for restricted use for purposes of producing any agricultural commodity on property owned or rented by him or his employer or, if applied without compensation other than trading of personal services between producers of agricultural commodities, on the property of another person. "Registered technician" means an individual who has satisfactorily completed the Board requirements for certification to apply general use pesticides, and to apply restricted use pesticides while under the direct supervision of a certified commercial applicator. Registered technicians render services similar to those of a certified commercial applicator, but have not completed all the requirements to be eligible for certification as a commercial applicator. "Registrant" means the person registering any pesticide pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. "Restricted use pesticide" or "pesticide classified for restricted use" means any pesticide classified as restricted by the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. "Rodenticide" means any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating rodents or any other vertebrate animal declared by the Commissioner to be a pest. "Serious violation" means a violation of this chapter or regulation adopted hereunder that results in a substantial probability of death or serious physical harm to persons, serious harm to property, or serious harm to the environment unless the person or licensee did not or could not with the exercise of reasonable diligence know of the violation. "State special use" or "pesticide classified for restricted use in the Commonwealth" means any pesticide that is judged by the Board after special review to be so hazardous or injurious to persons, pollinating insects, animals, crops, wildlife, lands, or the environment (other than the pests it is intended to prevent, destroy, control, or mitigate) that additional restrictions on its sale, purpose, use, or possession are required. "Under the direct supervision of" means the act or process whereby the application of a pesticide is made by a competent person acting under the instructions and control of a certified applicator who is responsible for the actions of that person. "Unreasonable adverse effects on the environment" means any unreasonable risk to man or the environment, taking into account the economic, social, and environmental costs and benefits of the use of any pesticide. "Use" means the employment of a pesticide for the purposes of: (i) preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest; or (ii) regulating plant growth, causing defoliation or desiccation of plants. The term "use" shall include applying, mixing, handling, or transferring a pesticide after the manufacturer's original seal is broken, and any act consistent with the label. 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.27; 1993, c. 773; 1995, c. 103; 2008, c. 860; 2012, cc. 803, 835. §§ 3.2-3901 through 3.2-3903. Repealed.Repealed by Acts 2012, cc. 803 and 835, cl. 32.
Va. Code § 3.2-3904
§ 3.2-3904. Powers and duties of the Board.The Board shall have the following powers and duties: 1. Appoint advisory committees as necessary to implement this chapter; 2. Contract for research projects and establish priorities; 3. Consult with the Department of Environmental Quality regarding compliance with the applicable waste management regulations for the safe and proper disposal of pesticide concentrates, used pesticide containers, and unused pesticides; 4. Consult with the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry regarding compliance with the applicable standards and regulations needed to ensure safe working conditions for pest control and agricultural workers; 5. Consult with the Department of Wildlife Resources regarding standards for the protection of wildlife and fish and to further promote cooperation with respect to programs established by the Department of Wildlife Resources for the protection of endangered or threatened species; 6. Inform the citizens of the desirability and availability of nonchemical and less toxic alternatives to chemical pesticides and the benefits of the safe and proper use of pest control products while promoting the use of integrated pest management techniques and encouraging the development of nonchemical and less toxic alternatives to chemical pesticides; 7. Require that pesticides are adequately tested and are safe for use under local conditions; 8. Require that individuals who sell, store, or apply pesticides commercially are adequately trained and observe appropriate safety practices; 9. Cooperate, receive grants-in-aid, and enter into agreements with any federal, state, or local agency to promote the purposes of this chapter; 10. Consult with the Department of Health regarding compliance with public health standards; 11. Designate any pesticide as state special use or classified for restricted use; and 12. Restrict the distribution, possession, sale, or use of tributyltin compounds. 1987, c. 15, § 3.1-249.25; 1989, c. 575, §§ 3.1-249.29, 3.1-249.62; 1991, c. 333; 2005, c. 633; 2008, c. 860; 2020, c. 958.
Va. Code § 3.2-3906
§ 3.2-3906. Board to adopt regulations.The Board may adopt regulations pursuant to the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.), including: 1. Licensing of businesses that manufacture, sell, store, recommend for use, mix, or apply pesticides; 2. Registration of pesticides for manufacture, distribution, sale, storage, or use; 3. Requiring reporting and record keeping related to licensing and registration; 4. Establishing training, testing and standards for certification of commercial applicators, registered technicians, and private applicators; 5. Revoking, suspending or denying licenses (business), registration (products), and certification or certificate (applicators or technicians); 6. Requiring licensees and certificate holders to inform the public when using pesticides in and around structures; 7. Establishing a fee structure for licensure, registration and certification to defray the costs of implementing this chapter; 8. Classifying or subclassifying certification or certificates to be issued under this chapter. Such classifications may include agricultural, forest, ornamental, aquatic, right-of-way or industrial, institutional, structural or health-related pest control; 9. Restricting or prohibiting the sale or use and disposal of any pesticide or pesticide container or residuals that: (i) undesirably persists in the environment or increases due to biological amplification or unreasonable adverse effects on the environment; or (ii) because of toxicity or inordinate hazard to man, animal, bird or plant may be contrary to the public interest; and 10. Other regulations necessary or convenient to carry out the purposes of this chapter. 1989, c. 575, §§ 3.1-249.30, 3.1-249.31; 1992, c. 114; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3907
§ 3.2-3907. Delegation of authority; exclusive authority to regulate.The Board may delegate any authority vested in it under this chapter to the Commissioner or other employees of the Department. The Board shall have the exclusive authority to regulate pesticides in accordance with this chapter. The Board's authority to regulate pesticides under this chapter shall not be delegated to any locality. 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.33; 1992, c. 289; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3908
§ 3.2-3908. Protection of trade secrets and other information.A. In submitting data required by this chapter, the applicant may: (i) clearly mark any portions that he believes are trade secrets or commercial or financial information; and (ii) submit such marked materials separately from other material. B. The Commissioner shall not make public information that, in his judgment, contains or relates to trade secrets or commercial or financial information. The Commissioner may reveal information: 1. Relating to formulas of products to any consulting federal, state, or local agency at a public hearing or in findings of fact issued by the Commissioner or Board; 2. To any person in connection with a public proceeding under law or regulation if the Commissioner finds the information relevant to a determination that a pesticide, or any ingredient of a pesticide, causes unreasonable adverse effects on health or the environment; 3. To contractors with the Commonwealth and employees of such contractors if the Commissioner finds disclosure necessary and requires, as a condition to the disclosure of information, that the person receiving it take any security precautions as provided for by regulation; 4. Concerning production, distribution, sale, or inventories in connection with a public proceeding to determine whether a pesticide or any ingredient of a pesticide causes unreasonable adverse effects on health or the environment if the Commissioner determines that disclosure is necessary and in the public interest; and 5. Concerning the objectives, methodology, results, or significance of any test or experiment performed on or with a registered or previously registered pesticide or its separate ingredients, impurities, or degradation products; any information concerning the effects of such pesticide on any organism or the behavior of such pesticide in the environment including data on safety to fish and wildlife, humans and other mammals, plants, animals, and soil; and studies on persistence, translocation and fate in the environment, and metabolism. Information concerning: (i) manufacturing or quality control processes; (ii) the details of methods for testing, detecting, or measuring the quantity of any deliberately added inert ingredient; or (iii) the identity or percentage quantity of any deliberately added inert ingredient, shall not be revealed unless the Commissioner determines that disclosure is necessary to protect against an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment. C. 1. The Commissioner shall notify the applicant or registrant in writing by certified mail if he proposes to release information that the applicant or registrant marked as confidential. The Commissioner shall not release such information for inspection until 30 days after receipt of the notice by the applicant or registrant. During this period, the applicant or registrant may institute an action in circuit court for a declaratory judgment as to whether such information is subject to protection. 2. The Commissioner shall notify the submitter by certified mail if he proposes to release information under subdivision B 4 or B 5. The Commissioner shall not release such information without the submitter's consent until 30 days after receipt of the notice by the submitter. The Commissioner may select alternative notice procedures and a shorter period of notice if he finds that disclosure is necessary to avoid or mitigate an imminent and substantial risk or injury to the public health. During such period the submitter may institute an action in circuit court to enjoin or limit the proposed disclosure. The court shall give expedited consideration to any such action. The court may enjoin disclosure, limit the disclosure, or limit the parties to whom disclosure shall be made to the extent that: (i) the proposed disclosure of information under subdivision B 4 is not required to protect against an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment; or (ii) the public interest in the disclosure of information in the public proceeding under subdivision B 5 does not outweigh the interests in preserving the confidentiality of the information. D. The Commissioner shall not knowingly disclose information submitted by an applicant or registrant under this chapter to any employee or agent of any entity engaged in the production, sale, or distribution of pesticides in countries other than the United States or to any person who intends to deliver such data to any such entity unless the applicant or registrant has consented to disclosure. The Commissioner shall require an affirmation from any person who intends to inspect data that such person does not seek access to the data for purposes of delivering it or offering it for sale to any such business or entity or its agents or employees and will not purposefully deliver or negligently cause the data to be delivered to such business or entity or its agents or employees. E. The Commissioner shall maintain records of the names of persons to whom data are disclosed under this section and the persons or organizations they represent and shall inform the applicant or registrant of the names and affiliation of such persons. F. Any person, who, with intent to defraud, uses or reveals information relative to formulas of products acquired pursuant to this chapter is guilty of a Class 6 felony. Code 1950, § 3-208.36; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-238; 1975, c. 102; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.68; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3909
§ 3.2-3909. Reports of pesticide accidents and incidents.The Board shall by regulation require the reporting of significant pesticide accidents or incidents posing a threat to humans or the environment to appropriate governmental agencies. To the extent feasible, accident reporting requirements shall be consistent with similar reports required under other laws. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.10; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.56; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3910
§ 3.2-3910. Complaints to Commissioner or the Board.Any person may register a written complaint with the Commissioner or the Board relating to the sale, use, storage, handling, or disposal of any pesticide. The Commissioner or the Board shall institute an investigation of the alleged damage caused by such pesticide. The Commissioner may seek the advice of other state or federal agencies or institutions. When it is determined that a violation has occurred, the Commissioner shall proceed as provided in § 3.2-3946. 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.32; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3911
§ 3.2-3911. Damages resulting from pesticide use or application.A. Any person claiming damages from the use or application of any pesticide classified for restricted use shall file with the Commissioner a written statement within 60 days after the date that damages occurred and, if a growing crop is alleged to have been damaged, prior to the time that 25 percent of the crop has been harvested. Such statement shall contain: (i) the name of the person allegedly responsible for the application of such pesticide; (ii) the name of the owner or lessee of the property where the crop is grown and the damage is alleged to have occurred; and (iii) the date of the alleged damage. Upon receipt of the statement, the Commissioner shall notify the certificate holder and the owner or lessee of the property or other person who may be charged with the responsibility of the damages claimed, and furnish copies of the statement as requested. B. The Commissioner shall inspect damages where possible and make his findings available to the parties. The claimant shall permit the Commissioner, the certificate holder, and his representatives to observe within reasonable hours any plants, animals, or other property alleged to have been damaged. Failure of the claimant to permit such observation and examination of the damaged property shall relieve the Commissioner of responsibility to take further action with reference to that claim. C. The filing of a statement or the failure to file a statement need not be alleged in any complaint filed in a court of law. The failure to file the statement shall not be considered a bar to the maintenance of any criminal or civil action. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.10; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.56; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3912
§ 3.2-3912. Pesticide Control Fund established.There is hereby created in the state treasury a special nonreverting fund to be known as the Pesticide Control Fund, hereafter referred to as "the Fund." The Fund shall be established on the books of the Comptroller. All moneys levied and collected under the provisions of this chapter shall be paid into the state treasury and credited to the Fund. Interest earned on moneys in the Fund shall remain in the Fund and be credited to it. Any moneys remaining in the Fund, including interest thereon, at the end of each fiscal year shall not revert to the general fund but shall remain in the Fund. Moneys in the Fund shall be used by the Department solely for carrying out the purposes of this chapter. Expenditures and disbursements from the Fund shall be made by the State Treasurer on warrants issued by the Comptroller upon written request signed by the Commissioner. 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.34; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3914
§ 3.2-3914. Registration required.Every pesticide manufactured, distributed, sold, offered for sale, used, or offered for use shall be registered in accordance with regulations adopted by the Board. Registration shall lapse unless the registrant pays an annual fee set forth in regulations adopted by the Board. Code 1950, § 3-208.19; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-221; 1976, c. 627; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.35; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3915
§ 3.2-3915. Products registered under Federal Act.The Commissioner may register and permit the sale and use of any pesticide registered under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act. Such products shall be subject to the registration fees and all other provisions of this chapter. Code 1950, § 3-208.20; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-222; 1975, c. 102; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.36; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3916
§ 3.2-3916. Products registered as single pesticide.Products that: (i) have the same formula; (ii) are manufactured by the same person; (iii) include labelings with the same claims; and (iv) bear designations identifying the products as the same pesticide may be registered as a single pesticide without an additional fee. Code 1950, § 3-208.22; 1960, c. 535; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-224; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.37; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3917
§ 3.2-3917. Change in labeling or formulas without reregistration.The Commissioner may allow a change in the labeling or formulas of a pesticide within a registration period without requiring reregistration provided that such changes do not lower the efficacy of the product. Code 1950, §§ 3-208.23, 3-208.31; 1960, c. 535; 1966, c. 702, §§ 3.1-225, 3.1-233; 1976, c. 627; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, §§ 3.1-249.38, 3.1-249.63; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3918
§ 3.2-3918. Statement to be filed by registrant.A. The registrant shall file a statement with the Commissioner including: 1. The name and address of the registrant and the name and address of the person whose name will appear on the label, if other than the registrant; 2. The name of the pesticide; 3. A complete copy of the labeling accompanying the pesticide and a statement of all claims made and to be made for it including directions for use; 4. If requested, a full description of the tests made and the results thereof upon which the claims are based; and 5. Other information requested by the Board such as product efficacy, all known health and environmental impacts, and known incidents of human or wildlife illnesses. B. In the case of renewal of registration, a statement shall be required only with respect to information different from that furnished when the pesticide was last registered or in response to additional requirements imposed by the Board. Code 1950, § 3-208.24; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-226; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575; § 3.1-249.39; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3919
§ 3.2-3919. Each brand or grade to be registered; fees.Before manufacturing, distributing, selling, offering for sale, or offering for use any pesticide, the registrant shall register each brand or grade of a pesticide with the Commissioner annually upon forms furnished by the Department and shall pay the Department an annual registration fee for each brand or grade offered for sale or use. The Commissioner shall issue a registration entitling the registrant to manufacture, distribute, or sell all registered brands until the expiration of the registration. Code 1950, § 3-208.25; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-227; 1970, c. 376; 1976, c. 627; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575; § 3.1-249.40; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3921
§ 3.2-3921. Requirements for registration.The Commissioner shall register a pesticide if: (i) he finds the composition of the pesticide warrants any proposed claims; and (ii) the pesticide, its labeling, and any other submitted material comply with the requirements of this chapter. If either condition is not met, the Commissioner shall notify the registrant of the manner in which the pesticide, labeling, or other material fails to comply with the requirements for registration so as to afford the registrant an opportunity to make the necessary correction. Code 1950, §§ 3-208.27, 3-208.28; 1966, c. 702, §§ 3.1-229, 3.1-230; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, §§ 3.1-249.42, 3.1-249.43; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3922
§ 3.2-3922. When Commissioner may refuse or cancel registration.The Commissioner may refuse to register or cancel the registration of any brand of pesticide upon satisfactory proof that the registrant has committed any of the acts prohibited by subsection A of § 3.2-3939 or any regulation adopted by the Board. No registration shall be revoked or refused until the registrant shall have been given a hearing by the Commissioner. Code 1950, § 3-208.29; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-231; 1981, c. 260; 1982, c. 361; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.44; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3923
§ 3.2-3923. When Board may refuse or cancel registration.The Board may deny or cancel the registration of a pesticide if it finds after a public hearing that: 1. Considering the available information on the benefits of a product and any associated risks, use of the pesticide has demonstrated unreasonable adverse effects on the environment; 2. A false or misleading statement about the pesticide has been made or implied by the registrant or the registrant's agent in writing, verbally, or through any form of advertising literature; or 3. The registrant or the pesticide fails to comply with a requirement of this chapter or a regulation adopted hereunder. 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.45; 1992, c. 114; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3924
§ 3.2-3924. Annual business license required.A. No pesticide business may sell, distribute, or store any pesticide without a pesticide business license issued pursuant to regulations adopted by the Board. The Board shall adopt regulations exempting retailers of limited quantities of nonrestricted use pesticides including grocery stores, convenience stores, drug stores, veterinarians, and other businesses who sell pesticides primarily for limited household use. B. No person may apply or recommend for use any pesticide commercially without a pesticide business license and the employment of a certified commercial applicator responsible for: (i) the safe application of the pesticides; and (ii) providing recommendations for the use of pesticides. C. An annual business license shall be required for each location or outlet that sells, distributes, stores, applies, or recommends for use any pesticide. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.7; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.46; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3925
§ 3.2-3925. Fees.A. A nonrefundable annual licensing fee shall be required with each application for a pesticide business license. B. If a person fails to apply for renewal of a pesticide business license prior to expiration, the applicant shall pay the licensing fee and a late fee of 20 percent of the licensing fee as a condition of renewal. 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.47; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3926
§ 3.2-3926. Records.A. As a condition of obtaining or renewing a license, each pesticide business required to be licensed shall maintain records as required by the Board. B. The Board may require the submission of records from a licensed pesticide business. Failure to submit a record requested by the Board is a ground for license revocation. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.11; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.48; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3927
§ 3.2-3927. Evidence of financial responsibility required of licensed pesticide business.A. The Board shall not issue a pesticide business license until the business has furnished evidence of financial responsibility, consisting of a liability insurance policy from a person authorized to do business in the Commonwealth that protects persons who suffer legal damages as a result of the use of any pesticide by the applicant. Financial responsibility need not apply to damages or injury to agricultural crops, plants, or property being worked upon by the applicant. The Board by regulation may establish and prescribe the conditions for financial responsibility. B. The amount of financial responsibility shall be established by the Board at a minimum of $100,000 for property damage; $100,000 for personal injury to or death of one person; and $300,000 per occurrence. The Board may accept a liability insurance policy containing a deductible clause in an amount considered usual and customary in the industry, with the provision that the insurer shall pay all claims in full and that the amount of the deductible shall be recoverable only from the insured. The Board may adopt regulations governing the provision of additional evidence of financial responsibility based upon annual gross revenue of the applicant or his employer's business and an assessment of the risks of the applicant or his employer's business to persons, property, and the environment. Such financial responsibility shall be maintained at not less than such amount at all times during the licensed period. The applicant shall notify the Board 10 days prior to any reduction at the request of the applicant or cancellation by the insurer. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.9; 1981, c. 260; 1984, c. 272; 1987, cc. 258, 291; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.49; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3928
§ 3.2-3928. Licensing of pesticide bulk storage facilities.The Board shall establish by regulation specific requirements for the licensing of a pesticide business that mixes, stores, or otherwise handles pesticides in bulk quantities. For the purposes of this section, bulk quantity shall not include containers approved for transportation in interstate commerce by the U.S. Department of Transportation. 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.50; 2008, c. 860. Article 3. Pesticide Application and Certification.
Va. Code § 3.2-3929
§ 3.2-3929. Restricted use pesticides prohibited; exceptions; training required.A. No person shall use any pesticide classified for restricted use unless that person: (i) has first complied with the certification requirements of the Board; (ii) is under the direct supervision of a certified applicator on-site and training for certification as a commercial applicator or registered technician; or (iii) is producing an agricultural commodity while under the direct supervision of a private applicator on property owned or leased by that private applicator. B. The Board may specify by regulation the amount of training and service required to qualify a person for each classification or subclassification of certification as a commercial applicator or registered technician. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.3; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.51; 1993, c. 773; 1995, c. 103; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3930
§ 3.2-3930. Application and certification of commercial applicators.A. No person shall use (except under supervised conditions of training for certification) or supervise the use of any pesticide in exchange for compensation of any kind other than the trading of personal services between producers of agricultural commodities without first obtaining certification as either a commercial applicator or registered technician in accordance with regulations adopted by the Board. Application for a commercial applicator's or registered technician's certificate shall be made in writing to the Commissioner. Each application for a certificate shall contain: (i) information regarding the applicant's qualifications and proposed operations; (ii) the classification or classifications the applicant is applying for; (iii) the full name of the applicant or, if the applicant is a member of a firm or partnership, the names of the principal officers of the association, corporation, or group; (iv) the principal business address of the applicant in the Commonwealth and elsewhere; and (v) any other information required by the Commissioner. B. The Commissioner shall not issue a commercial applicator's or registered technician's certificate until the individual who uses or supervises the use of any pesticide is certified by: (i) presenting proof of completion of a training course approved by the Board and appropriate to the desired classification; and (ii) passing a written examination. C. Each commercial applicator and registered technician shall be required to renew his certification biennially subject to payment of the required fee and presentation of proof of completion of a Board-approved recertification course. Reexamination or special examination may be required by the Board of any person: (i) whose certification has been suspended, revoked, or modified pursuant to subsection B of § 3.2-3940; (ii) if significant technological developments have occurred requiring additional knowledge; (iii) when required by additional standards established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; (iv) when applying for a different classification of certification; or (v) when required by regulations of the Board. In the event that reexamination is required, the fee shall be no greater than that imposed for initial certification. D. The Commissioner shall issue a certificate for classifications for which the applicant is qualified if he finds the applicant meets the requirements to apply pesticides in any of the classifications he has applied for; and, if the applicant is applying for a certificate to engage in aerial application, has met all of the requirements of the Federal Aviation Agency, the Department of Aviation of the Commonwealth, and any other applicable laws. The Commissioner may limit the certification of the applicant to the use of certain pesticides, or to certain areas, or to certain types of equipment if the applicant is only so qualified. If a certificate is not issued as applied for, the Commissioner shall inform the applicant in writing of the reasons within 30 days. Copies of such action shall be reported to the Board. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.4; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.52; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3931
§ 3.2-3931. Agencies or persons exempt or partially exempt.A. All state agencies, municipal corporations, or other governmental agencies shall be exempt from any certification fees prescribed by this article, but remain subject to the provisions of this article and regulations adopted hereunder concerning the application of pesticides. B. Individuals, employees, or representatives of such governmental agencies shall be certified as commercial applicators or registered technicians for the use of pesticides covered by the applicant's certification. The certification shall be valid only when applying or supervising application of pesticides used by such governmental agencies. C. The following persons shall be exempt from the provisions of this article: (i) persons conducting laboratory research involving restricted use pesticides; (ii) doctors of medicine or doctors of veterinary medicine applying pesticides as drugs or medication, or to control pests in corpses during the normal course of their practice; (iii) providers of janitorial, cleaning, or sanitizing services if the providers use no pesticides other than nonrestricted use sanitizers, disinfectants, and germicides; (iv) persons who apply paints containing pesticides, provided that the pesticides in the paints are not restricted use pesticides; (v) classes of persons specified by regulation who can use or supervise the use of pesticides with minimal risk to the public health and safety by virtue of their experience and knowledge regarding the safe use of pesticides; and (vi) classes of persons specified by regulation whose use or supervision of the use of pesticides can be accomplished with minimal risk to the public health and safety by virtue of the nature of the pesticides used or method of application of the pesticides. D. A painter who applies restricted-use marine antifoulant paint only under the direct, on-site supervision of a commercial applicator is not required to be a commercial applicator or a registered technician, provided that one commercial applicator may not provide on-site supervision for more than eight paint applicators. E. Neither the provisions of this chapter nor regulations adopted hereunder shall require the certification of any person who uses or supervises the use of any pesticide that is not a restricted use pesticide only on property owned or leased by his employer as part of his job duties. This exemption shall not apply to any person who: (i) uses or supervises the use of any pesticide on any area open to the general public at educational institutions, health care facilities, day-care facilities, or convalescent facilities; (ii) uses or supervises the use of any pesticide within any area where open food is stored, processed, or sold; (iii) uses or supervises the use of any pesticide on any recreational land over five acres in size; and (iv) is otherwise specifically required by this article to be certified as a commercial applicator. F. Neither the provisions of this chapter nor the regulations adopted hereunder shall require the certification of any unpaid volunteer who uses any nonrestricted herbicide with the express authorization of a local political subdivision for the sole purpose of controlling invasive plants or noxious weeds, as that term is defined in § 3.2-800, on properties owned by such local political subdivision. Such unpaid volunteer shall use such herbicide under the direct supervision of a certified commercial applicator, and such local political subdivision shall provide instruction by a certified commercial applicator to such unpaid volunteer prior to application on (i) the risks associated with the herbicide utilized, (ii) the proper use of equipment used to apply the herbicide, (iii) the proper use of personal protective equipment, (iv) other information to prevent an unreasonable adverse effect on the environment, and (v) any other information relevant to the specific herbicide utilized. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.5; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.53; 1993, c. 773; 1995, c. 103; 2008, c. 860; 2024, c. 720.
Va. Code § 3.2-3932
§ 3.2-3932. Application and certification of private applicators.A. It is unlawful to use or supervise the use of any pesticide classified for restricted use on any property, unless the applicator: (i) has first obtained certification from the Commissioner as a private applicator; (ii) is exempt or excepted from the requirement to be certified; or (iii) is producing an agricultural commodity while under the direct supervision of a private applicator on property owned or leased by that private applicator. B. An applicator shall be required to renew his certification biennially under the classification or subclassification for which such applicator is certified. The Commissioner shall require reexamination or special examination of any applicator if: (i) certification has been suspended, revoked, or modified pursuant to § 3.2-3940; (ii) significant technological developments have occurred requiring additional knowledge; (iii) required by additional standards established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; or (iv) required by regulations of the Board. To obtain recertification, the applicator shall furnish satisfactory evidence of completion of educational courses, programs, or seminars approved by the Board. C. The Commissioner shall inform the applicant in writing of his decision within 30 days. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.6; 1976, c. 236; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.54; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3938
§ 3.2-3938. Misbranded pesticides.Any pesticide or device is misbranded if: 1. Its labeling bears any statement, design, or graphic representation relative thereto or to its ingredients that is false or misleading in any particular; 2. It is an imitation of or is offered for sale under the name of another pesticide; 3. Its labeling bears any reference to registration under this chapter; 4. The accompanying labeling does not contain directions for use that are adequate for the protection of the public; 5. The label does not contain a warning or caution statement that may be necessary and, if complied with, adequate to prevent injury to man, other vertebrate animals, vegetation, and useful invertebrate animals; 6. The label does not bear an ingredient statement or guaranteed analysis statement on the immediate container of the retail package (and on the outside container or wrapper if such statement on the immediate container cannot be clearly read) that is presented or displayed under customary conditions of purchase. The Commissioner may permit the ingredient statement to appear prominently on some other part of the container if the size or form of the container makes it impracticable to place it on the part of the retail package that is presented or displayed under customary conditions of purchase; 7. Any words, statement, or other information required under this chapter to appear on the labeling is not prominently placed thereon with such conspicuousness (as compared with other words, statements, designs, or graphic matter in the labeling) and in such terms as to render it likely to be read and understood by the ordinary individual under customary conditions of purchase and use; 8. In the case of an insecticide, fungicide, or herbicide, when used as directed or in accordance with commonly recognized safe practice, it shall be injurious to living man or other vertebrate animals or vegetation to which it is applied, or to the person applying such pesticide, excepting pests and weeds; or 9. In the case of a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant, when used as directed it shall be injurious to living man or other vertebrate animals, or vegetation to which it is applied, or to the person applying such pesticide; provided that physical or physiological effects on plants or parts thereof shall not be deemed to be injury, when this is the purpose for which the plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant was applied, in accordance with the label claims and recommendations. 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.27; 1993, c. 773; 1995, c. 103; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3939
§ 3.2-3939. Violations generally.A. It is unlawful for any person to manufacture, distribute, sell, offer for sale, use or offer for use: 1. Any pesticide not registered pursuant to the provisions of this chapter; any pesticide if any of the claims made for it or any of the directions for its use differ in substance from the representations made in connection with its registration; or any pesticide if the composition of a pesticide differs from its composition as represented in connection with its registration. 2. Any pesticide sold, offered for sale, or offered for use that is not in the registrant's or the manufacturer's unbroken container, and does not have an affixed and visible label bearing the following information: a. The name and address of the manufacturer, registrant, or person for whom manufactured; b. The name, brand, or trademark under which said pesticide is sold; and c. The net weight or measure of the content, subject to reasonable variations as permitted by the Commissioner. 3. Any pesticide containing any substance in quantities highly toxic to man, unless the label bears: a. A skull and crossbones; b. The word "poison" shown prominently in red on a background of distinctly contrasting color; and c. A statement of an antidote for the pesticide. 4. The pesticides commonly known as lead arsenate, basic lead arsenate, calcium arsenate, magnesium arsenate, zinc arsenate, zinc arsenite, sodium fluoride, sodium fluosilicate, and barium fluosilicate, unless they have been distinctly colored as provided by regulations issued hereunder. Any other white powder pesticide that the Commissioner requires to be distinctly colored after an investigation of and after a public hearing on the necessity for such action. The Commissioner may exempt any pesticide to the extent that it is intended for a particular use if he determines that distinctive coloring is unnecessary for the protection of the public health. 5. Any pesticide that is adulterated or misbranded, or any device that is misbranded. 6. Any pesticide that is the subject of a stop sale, use, or removal order as provided for in § 3.2-3944 until such time as the provisions of that section have been met. B. It is unlawful for any person to use or cause to be used any pesticide in a manner inconsistent with its labeling or regulations of the Board, provided that such deviation may include provisions set forth in Section 2 (ee) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. § 136 et seq.). C. It is unlawful to dispose of containers or unused portions of pesticide in a manner inconsistent with label directions or the regulations of the Board in the absence of label directions, or if those regulations further restrict such disposal. D. It is unlawful for any person to knowingly use any pesticide against any organism that is otherwise protected under fish, game, or migratory bird laws, without first obtaining authorization as necessary from the federal or state agency responsible for the protection of the organism. E. It is unlawful for any person to detach, alter, deface or destroy, in whole or in part, any label or labeling provided for in this chapter or the regulations adopted hereunder. F. It is unlawful for any manufacturer, distributor, dealer, carrier, or other person to refuse, upon a request in writing specifying the nature or kind of pesticide or device to which such request relates, to furnish to or permit any person designated by the Commissioner to have access to and to copy such records of business transactions as may be essential in carrying out the purposes of this chapter. G. It is unlawful for any person to give a guaranty or undertaking provided for in § 3.2-3941 that is false in any particular, except that a person who receives and relies upon a guaranty authorized under such section may give a guaranty to the same effect, which guaranty shall contain in addition to his own name and address the name and address of the person residing in the U.S. from whom he received the guaranty or undertaking. H. It is unlawful for any person to oppose or interfere in any way with the Commissioner in carrying out the duties imposed by this chapter. Code 1950, §§ 3-208.31, 3-208.32, 3-208.34, 3-208.35, 3-208.37; 1960, c. 535; 1966, c. 702, §§ 3.1-233, 3.1-234, 3.1-236, 3.1-237, 3.1-239; 1970, c. 376, § 3.1-233.1; 1975, c. 102; 1976, c. 627; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, §§ 3.1-249.63 to 3.1-249.67, 3.1-249.69; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3940
§ 3.2-3940. Administrative violations.A. In addition to imposing civil penalties and referring violations for criminal prosecution, the Board may deny, suspend, modify, or revoke a license after providing an opportunity for a hearing if it finds that the applicant, licensee, or his employee has committed any of the following violations: 1. Made false or fraudulent claims through any media misrepresenting the effect of materials or methods; 2. Made a pesticide recommendation inconsistent with the label registered pursuant to this chapter, provided that such deviation may include provisions set forth in Section 2 (ee) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. § 136 et seq.); 3. Acted as a pesticide business with negligence, incompetence, or misconduct; 4. Made false or fraudulent records, invoices, or reports; 5. Failed to submit records required by the Board; 6. Used fraud, misrepresentation, or false information in an application for a license or a renewal of a license; or in selling or offering to sell pesticides; 7. Stored or disposed of containers or pesticides by means other than those prescribed on the label or by regulation; 8. Provided or made available any restricted use pesticide to any person not certified to apply such product; 9. Failed to notify the Department of a reportable pesticide spill, accident, or incident; 10. Acted as a pesticide business without first obtaining the pesticide business license required in § 3.2-3924; or 11. Failed to pay any civil penalty assessed by the Board. B. After opportunity for a hearing, the Board may deny, suspend, revoke, or modify the provision of any certificate if it finds that the applicant or the holder of a certificate has: 1. Made claims through any media that intentionally misrepresent the effects on the environment likely to result from the application of a pesticide; 2. Used or caused to be used any pesticide inconsistent with: (i) the label registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; (ii) a Virginia state registered use; or (iii) other permissible uses; 3. Applied any pesticide in a negligent manner; 4. Failed to comply with the provisions of Article 3, regulations adopted hereunder, or of any lawful order of the Commissioner or the Board; 5. Failed to: (i) keep and maintain required records or reports; or (ii) furnish or permit access to any such records or reports for copying by the Commissioner; 6. Made false or fraudulent records, invoices, or reports concerning the use or application of any pesticide; 7. Used or caused to be used any pesticide classified for restricted use unless under the direct supervision of a certified applicator; 8. Used fraud or misrepresentation in applying for a certificate or renewal of a certificate; 9. Failed to comply with any limitations or restrictions on a certification; 10. Aided, abetted, or conspired with any person to violate the provisions of Article 3; 11. Impersonated any federal, state, or local official; 12. Made any statement, declaration, or representation implying that any person certified or registered under the provisions of Article 3 is recommended or endorsed by any agency of the Commonwealth; or 13. Been convicted or is subject to a final order assessing a penalty pursuant to § 14 (a) or (b) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. § 136 et seq.). C. The Commissioner may, without a hearing, suspend the license of any person licensed or certified simultaneously with the institution of proceedings for a hearing, if he finds there is a substantial danger to the public health, safety, or the environment. The hearing shall be scheduled within a reasonable time of the date of the summary suspension. D. Any licensee or certificate holder whose license or certificate has been suspended shall not engage in the activity for which he has been certified or licensed pending the hearing. E. The Board shall suspend a license or certificate if a civil penalty is not paid within 60 days or a challenge is not made pursuant to subsection D of § 3.2-3943. When deciding whether to deny, suspend, revoke, or modify any certificate or license, the Board shall give due consideration to: (i) the history of previous violations; (ii) the seriousness of the violation including any irreparable harm to the environment and any hazards to the health and safety of the public; and (iii) the demonstrated good faith in attempting to achieve compliance with the chapter after notification of the violation. Code 1950, § 3-208.31; 1960, c. 535; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-233; 1976, c. 627; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, §§ 3.1-249.63, 3.1-249.76; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3941
§ 3.2-3941. Exemptions from penalties.The penalties provided for violations of subsection A of § 3.2-3939 and § 3.2-3940 shall not apply to: 1. Any carrier transporting pesticides if such carrier permits the Commissioner to copy all records showing the transactions in and movements of the pesticides upon request; 2. Public officials of the Commonwealth and the federal government engaged in the performance of their official duties; 3. Individuals or agencies authorized by law to conduct research in the field of pesticides when such research is conducted in accordance with regulations established by the Board; and 4. Any person who establishes a guaranty signed by, and containing the name and address of, the registrant or person residing in the United States from whom he purchased and received in good faith the pesticide in the same unbroken package, to the effect that the pesticide was lawfully registered at the time of sale and delivery to him, and that it complies with the other requirements of this chapter, designating this chapter. In such case the guarantor shall be subject to the penalties that would otherwise attach to the person holding the guaranty under the provisions of this chapter. Code 1950, § 3-208.44; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-246; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.74; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3942
§ 3.2-3942. Right of entry; warrant requirements; procedure.A. The Commissioner may enter any public or private premises operating as a pesticide business at reasonable times, with the consent of the owner or tenant thereof, and upon presentation of appropriate credentials for carrying out the purposes of this chapter. B. If the Commissioner is denied access, he may apply for an administrative search warrant from a judge with authority to issue criminal warrants or a magistrate whose jurisdiction encompasses the premises. 1. No warrant shall be issued except upon probable cause and supported by an affidavit particularly describing (i) the place, things, or persons to be inspected or tested; and (ii) the purpose for which the inspection, testing, or collection of samples is to be made. 2. Probable cause shall exist if either (i) reasonable legislative or administrative standards for conducting inspection, testing, or collection of samples are satisfied with respect to the particular place, thing, or person, or (ii) there is cause to believe that a condition, object, activity, or circumstance legally justifies the inspection, testing, or collection of samples. 3. The supporting affidavit shall contain either (i) a statement that consent to inspect, test, or collect samples has been sought and refused, or (ii) facts or circumstances reasonably justifying the failure to seek consent. If probable cause is based upon legislative or administrative standards for selecting places of business for inspection, the affidavit shall contain factual allegations sufficient to justify an independent determination by the court that the inspection program is based on reasonable standards and that the standards are being applied to a particular place of business in a neutral and fair manner. After issuing a warrant under this section, the magistrate or judge shall file the affidavit in the manner prescribed by § 19.2-54. C. Any administrative search warrant shall be effective for a period of not more than 15 days unless extended or renewed by the judicial officer who issued the original warrant. The warrant shall be executed and returned to the clerk of the circuit court of the city or county wherein the search was made within the time specified or within the extended or renewed time. The return shall list any records removed or samples taken pursuant to the warrant. The warrant shall be void after the expiration of time unless executed or renewed. D. No warrant shall be executed in the absence of the owner, tenant, operator, or custodian of the premises unless the issuing judicial officer specifically authorizes that such authority is reasonably necessary to affect the purposes of the law or regulation. Entry pursuant to such a warrant shall not be made forcibly. The issuing officer may authorize a forcible entry where the facts (i) create a reasonable suspicion of an immediate threat to the health and safety of persons or to the environment, or (ii) establish that reasonable attempts to serve a previous warrant have been unsuccessful. If forcible entry is authorized, the warrant shall be issued jointly to the Commissioner and to a law-enforcement officer who shall accompany the Commissioner during the execution of the warrant. E. No court of the Commonwealth shall have jurisdiction to hear a challenge to the warrant prior to its return, except as a defense in a contempt proceeding or if the owner or custodian of the place to be inspected submits a substantial preliminary showing by affidavit and accompanied by proof that (i) a statement included by the affiant in his affidavit for the administrative search warrant was false and made knowingly and intentionally or with reckless disregard for the truth, and (ii) the false statement was necessary to the finding of probable cause. The court may conduct in camera review as appropriate. F. After the warrant has been executed and returned, the validity of the warrant may be reviewed either as a defense to any Notice of Violation or by declaratory judgment action brought in a circuit court. The review shall be confined to the face of the warrant, affidavits, and supporting materials presented to the issuing judicial officer. If the owner or custodian of the place inspected submits a substantial showing by affidavit and accompanied by proof that (i) a statement included in the warrant was false and made knowingly and intentionally or with reckless disregard for the truth, and (ii) the false statement was necessary to the finding of probable cause, the reviewing court shall limit its inquiry to whether there is substantial evidence in the record supporting the issuance of the warrant and shall not conduct a de novo determination of probable cause. 1975, c. 377, § 3.1-249.18; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.58; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860; 2014, c. 354.
Va. Code § 3.2-3943
§ 3.2-3943. Civil penalties; procedure.A. The Board may assess against any person violating this chapter or regulations adopted hereunder a civil penalty after providing written notice of the alleged violation. Such notice shall not constitute a case decision as defined in § 2.2-4001. The person so notified shall have 30 days to provide any additional, relevant facts to the Board, including facts that demonstrate a good-faith attempt to achieve compliance. In determining the amount of any civil penalty, the Board shall give due consideration to (i) the history of previous violations; (ii) the seriousness of the violation, including any irreparable harm to the environment and any hazards to the health and safety of the public; and (iii) the demonstrated good faith in attempting to achieve compliance. B. No sooner than 30 days after providing written notice of the alleged violation pursuant to subsection A, the Board may assess a penalty of not more than $1,000 for a violation that is less than serious; not more than $5,000 for a serious violation; and not more than $20,000 for a repeat or knowing violation. The Board may assess an additional penalty of up to $100,000 for any violation that causes serious damage to the environment, serious injury to property, or serious injury to or death of any person. C. Civil penalties assessed under this section shall be paid into Pesticide Control Fund established in § 3.2-3912. The Commissioner shall prescribe procedures for payment of penalties that are not contested by licensees or persons, including provisions for a person to consent to abatement of the alleged violation and payment of a penalty or negotiated sum in lieu of such penalty without admission of civil liability. D. The person to whom a civil penalty is issued shall have 15 days to request an informal fact-finding conference, held pursuant to § 2.2-4019, to challenge the fact or amount of the civil penalty. If the civil penalty is upheld, such person shall have 15 days to (i) pay the proposed penalty in full or contest either the amount of the penalty or the fact of the violation and (ii) forward the proposed amount to the Commissioner's office for placement in an interest-bearing trust account in the State Treasurer's office. If administrative or judicial review shows no violation or that the amount of penalty should be reduced, the Commissioner shall have 30 days from that showing to remit the appropriate amount to the person, with interest accrued thereon. If the violation is upheld, the amount collected shall be paid into the Pesticide Control Fund. E. Final orders of the Board may be recorded, enforced, and satisfied as orders or decrees of a circuit court upon certification by the secretary of the Board. Such orders may be appealed in accordance with the provisions of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.). Code 1950, §§ 3-208.39, 3-208.42; 1966, c. 702, §§ 3.1-241, 3.1-244; 1970, c. 376; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.70; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860; 2016, c. 320.
Va. Code § 3.2-3944
§ 3.2-3944. "Stop-sale or removal" orders; "stop-use" orders; judicial review.A. When the Commissioner has reason to believe that a pesticide is being offered for sale or use or is being used in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter, he shall issue and enforce a written or printed "stop sale or removal" order. The order shall be directed to the owner or custodian of the lot of pesticide and shall require him to hold the pesticide at a designated place until this chapter has been complied with and the pesticide is released in writing by the Commissioner or the violation is otherwise legally disposed of by written authority. The owner or custodian of such pesticide shall have the right to administrative and judicial review of such order in accordance with the provisions of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.). The provisions of this section shall not be construed as limiting the right of the enforcement officer to proceed as authorized by other provisions of this chapter. The Commissioner shall release the pesticide when the requirements of the provisions of this chapter have been complied with and upon payment of all costs and expenses incurred in connection with the withdrawal. B. When the Commissioner has reason to believe that any pesticide is being offered for sale or use or is being used in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter by a person, he shall issue and enforce a written or printed "stop-use" order until the Pesticide Control Act has been complied with or the violation has been otherwise legally disposed of by written authority. The person shall have the right to administrative and judicial review of such order in accordance with the provisions of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.). The provisions of this section shall not be construed as limiting the right of the enforcement officer to proceed as authorized by other provisions of this chapter. Code 1950, § 3-208.46; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-248; 1981, c. 260; 1986, c. 615; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.77; 1993, c. 773; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-3945
§ 3.2-3945. Seizure, condemnation, and sale.Any lot of pesticide in violation of this chapter shall be subject to seizure on complaint of the Commissioner to the circuit court in the area where the pesticide is located. If the court finds the pesticide to be in violation of this chapter and orders its condemnation, it shall be disposed of after the claimant is provided an opportunity to apply for the release of the pesticide or for permission to process, relabel, or otherwise bring it into compliance with this chapter. Code 1950, § 3-208.47; 1966, c. 702, § 3.1-249; 1981, c. 260; 1989, c. 575, § 3.1-249.78; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-400
§ 3.2-400. Definitions.As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning: "Agricultural activity" means any activity used in the production of food and fiber, including farming, feedlots, grazing livestock, poultry raising, dairy farming, and aquaculture activities. "Agricultural stewardship plan" or "plan" means a site-specific plan for an agricultural activity to manage, through use of stewardship measures, one or more of the following: soil, water, plants, plant nutrients, pest controls, wastes, and animals. "Board" means the Soil and Water Conservation Board. "Complaint" means an allegation made by any person to the Commissioner that an owner's or operator's agricultural activity is creating or, if not changed, will create pollution and that states the location and nature of such agricultural activity. "District" or "soil and water conservation district" means a political subdivision of the Commonwealth organized in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 5 (§ 10.1-500 et seq.) of Title 10.1. "Informal fact-finding conference" means an informal fact-finding conference conducted in accordance with § 2.2-4019. "Operator" means any person who exercises managerial control over any agricultural activity. "Owner" means any person who owns land where an agricultural activity occurs. "Pollution" means any alteration of the physical, chemical, or biological properties of any state waters resulting from sedimentation, nutrients, or toxins. "State waters" means all water, on the surface or in the ground, wholly or partially within or bordering the Commonwealth or within its jurisdiction. "Stewardship measures" or "measures" means measures for controlling the addition of pollutants from existing and new categories and classes of nonpoint sources of pollution that reflect the pollutant reduction achievable through the application of the best available nonpoint pollution control methods, technologies, processes, siting criteria, operating methods, or other alternatives. "Stewardship measures" or "measures" includes: (i) agricultural water quality protection management measures described in the Virginia Agricultural Best Management Practices Manual; and (ii) agricultural water quality protection management measures contained in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service Field Office Technical Guide. 1996, c. 773, § 10.1-559.1; 2000, c. 973; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-4808
§ 3.2-4808. Adulteration.A. It is unlawful for any person who is a manufacturer or guarantor of a commercial feed to distribute a commercial feed if the commercial feed: 1. Contains any poisonous or deleterious substance that may render the commercial feed or its packaging injurious to health, unless the poisonous or deleterious substance is not an added substance and is not of sufficient quantity to render the commercial feed injurious to health under ordinary circumstances; 2. Contains any added poisonous, added deleterious, or added nonnutritive substance that is unsafe within the meaning of Section 406 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. If the substance is a food additive or a pesticide chemical in or on a raw agricultural commodity, then subdivisions A 3 and A 4 shall govern; 3. Is, bears, or contains any food additive that is unsafe within the meaning of Section 409 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; 4. Is a raw agricultural commodity and it bears or contains a pesticide chemical that is unsafe within the meaning of Section 408 (a) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. If a pesticide chemical has been used in or on a raw agricultural commodity in conformity within an exemption granted, or a tolerance prescribed, under Section 408 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and such raw agricultural commodity has been subjected to processing such as canning, cooking, freezing, dehydrating, or milling, then the residue of such pesticide chemical remaining in or on such processed feed shall not be deemed unsafe, so long as: (i) such residue in or on the raw agricultural commodity has been removed to the extent possible within good manufacturing practice; (ii) the concentration of such residue in the processed feed is not greater than the tolerance prescribed by Section 408 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act for the raw agricultural commodity; and (iii) the feeding of such processed feed will not result, or be likely to result, in a pesticide residue in the edible produce of the animal, and that pesticide residue is unsafe within the meaning of Section 408 (a) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; 5. Is, bears or contains any color additive that is unsafe within the meaning of Section 721 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; 6. Is, bears, or contains any new animal drug that is unsafe within the meaning of Section 512 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; 7. Has had any valuable constituent, in whole or in part, omitted or abstracted from the commercial feed, or any less valuable substance substituted into the commercial feed; 8. Has had the composition or quality of the commercial feed fall below or differ from that which the manufacturer or guarantor purports or represents the commercial feed to possess by its labeling; 9. Contains a drug, and the methods used in, or the facilities or controls used for, its manufacture, processing, or packaging do not conform to current good manufacturing practice; or if the drug does not conform to regulations adopted by the Board, to assure that the drug meets the requirements of this chapter as to safety, and to assure that the drug has the identity, strength, quality, and purity characteristics that it purports or is represented to possess. In adopting such regulations, the Board shall adopt the current good manufacturing practice regulations for Type A Medicated Articles, and Type B, and Type C Medicated Feeds, established under authority of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, unless the Board determines that such regulations are not appropriate to the conditions that exist in the Commonwealth; or 10. Contains viable weed seeds in amounts exceeding the limits as specified in the regulations of the Board. Nothing in this subdivision shall apply to whole unprocessed seeds. B. The violation of any provision of this section shall be deemed to be adulteration. 1994, c. 743, § 3.1-828.10; 2008, c. 860.
Va. Code § 3.2-5400
§ 3.2-5400. Definitions.As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning: "Animal food manufacturer" means any person engaged in the business of preparing animal (including poultry) food derived wholly or in part from livestock or poultry carcasses or parts or products of such carcasses. "Broker" means any person engaged in the business of buying or selling livestock products or poultry products on commission, or otherwise negotiating purchases or sales of such articles other than for his own account or as an employee of another person. "Capable of use as human food" shall apply to any livestock or poultry carcass, or part or product of any such carcass, unless it is denatured or otherwise identified as required by regulations prescribed by the Board to deter its use as human food, or it is naturally inedible by humans. "Container" or "package" means any box, can, tin, cloth, plastic, or other receptacle, wrapper, or cover. "Federal acts" means the Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. § 601 et seq.) and the federal Poultry Products Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. § 451 et seq.). "Immediate container" means any consumer package; or any other container in which livestock products or poultry products, not consumer packaged, are packed. "Inspector" means an employee or official of the Commonwealth authorized by the Commissioner or any employee or official of the government of any locality authorized by the Commissioner to perform any inspection functions under this article under an agreement between the Commissioner and such governmental subdivision. "Label" means a display of written, printed, or graphic matter upon any article or the immediate container (not including package liners) of any article. "Labeling" means all labels and other written, printed, or graphic matter: (i) upon any article or any of its containers or wrappers; or (ii) accompanying such article. "Livestock" means any cattle, sheep, swine, goats, horses, mules, or other equines, whether live or dead. "Livestock product" means any carcass, part thereof, meat, or meat food product of any livestock. "Meat food product" means any product capable of use as human food that is made wholly or in part from any meat or other portion of the carcass of any cattle, sheep, swine, or goats. Products that contain meat or other portions of such carcasses only in a relatively small proportion or historically have not been considered by consumers as products of the meat food industry, and that are exempted from definition as a meat food product by the Commissioner under such conditions as he may prescribe to assure that the meat or other portions of such carcass contained in such product are not adulterated and that such products are not represented as meat food products. This term as applied to food products of equines shall have a comparable meaning. "Official certificate" means any certificate prescribed by regulations of the Board for issuance by an inspector or other person performing official functions under this article. "Official device" means any device prescribed or authorized by the Commissioner for use in applying any official mark. "Official establishment" means any establishment as determined by the Commissioner at which inspection of the slaughter of livestock or poultry or the preparation of livestock products or poultry products is maintained under the authority of this article. "Official inspection legend" means any symbol prescribed by regulations of the Board showing that an article was inspected and passed in accordance with this article. "Official mark" means the official inspection legend or any other symbol prescribed by regulations of the Board to identify the status of any article or livestock or poultry under this article. "Pesticide chemical," "food additive," "color additive," and "raw agricultural commodity" shall have the same meanings for purposes of this article as under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. § 321 et seq.). "Poultry" means any domesticated bird, whether live or dead. "Poultry product" means any poultry carcass or part thereof; or any product that is made wholly or in part from any poultry carcass or part thereof, excepting products that contain poultry ingredients only in a relatively small proportion or historically have not been considered by consumers as products of the poultry food industry, and that are exempted by the Commissioner from definition as a poultry product under such conditions as he may prescribe to assure that the poultry ingredients in such products are not adulterated and that such products are not represented as poultry products. "Prepared" means slaughtered, canned, salted, stuffed, rendered, boned, cut up, or otherwise manufactured or processed. "Render" means any person engaged in the business of rendering livestock or poultry carcasses, or parts of products of such carcasses, except rendering conducted under inspection or exemption under this article. "Shipping container" means any container used or intended for use in packaging the product packed in an immediate container. 1970, c. 290, § 3.1-884.18; 2008, c. 860; 2020, c. 318.
Va. Code § 3.2-5401
§ 3.2-5401. Adulterated livestock product or poultry product.Any livestock product or poultry product shall be deemed to be adulterated: 1. If it bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance that may render it injurious to health; but in case the substance is not an added substance, such article shall not be considered adulterated under this clause if the quantity of such substance in or on such article does not ordinarily render it injurious to health; 2. If it bears or contains (by reason of administration of any substance to the livestock or poultry or otherwise) any added poisonous or added deleterious substance (other than one that is: (i) a pesticide chemical in or on a raw agricultural commodity; (ii) a food additive; or (iii) a color additive) that may, in the judgment of the Commissioner, make such article unfit for human food; 3. If it is, in whole or in part, a raw agricultural commodity and such commodity bears or contains a pesticide chemical that is unsafe within the meaning of § 346a of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; 4. If it bears or contains any food additive that is unsafe within the meaning of § 348 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; 5. If it bears or contains any color additive that is unsafe within the meaning of § 379e of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; provided, that an article that is not otherwise deemed adulterated under subsection C or D of this section shall nevertheless be deemed adulterated if use of the pesticide chemical, food additive, or color additive in or on such article is prohibited by regulations of the Board in official establishments; 6. If it consists in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance or is for any other reason unsound, unhealthful, unwholesome, or otherwise unfit for human food; 7. If it has been prepared, packed, or held under unsanitary conditions whereby it may have become contaminated with filth, or whereby it may have been rendered injurious to health; 8. If it is, in whole or in part, the product of an animal (including poultry) that has died otherwise than by slaughter; 9. If its container is composed, in whole or in part, of any poisonous or deleterious substance that may render the contents injurious to health; 10. If it has been intentionally subjected to radiation, unless the use of the radiation was in conformity with a regulation or exemption in effect pursuant to § 348 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; 11. If any valuable constituent has been in whole or in part omitted or abstracted therefrom; or if any substance has been substituted, wholly or in part therefor; or if damage or inferiority has been concealed in any manner; or if any substance has been added thereto or mixed or packed therewith so as to increase its bulk or weight, or reduce its quality or strength, or make it appear better or of greater value than it is; or 12. If it is margarine containing animal fat and any of the raw material used therein consisted in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance. 1970, c. 290, § 3.1-884.18; 2008, c. 860; 2020, c. 318.
Va. Code § 32.1-247
§ 32.1-247. Vector control.The Board shall develop and maintain the capability and technical competence necessary to investigate the occurrence of diseases borne by insects and rodents and shall recommend such measures as may be necessary to prevent the spread of such diseases and to eradicate or control disease-bearing insects and rodents. In this regard the Board shall make provision for assistance to mosquito control commissions when requested, field surveys and investigation of complaints, advice to citizens and local governments, training in vector control, advice and recommendations on proper use of pesticides, and identifying specimens. 1979, c. 711; 1985, c. 372.
Va. Code § 35.1-13
§ 35.1-13. Regulations governing hotels.Regulations of the Board governing hotels shall provide minimum standards for, but shall not be limited to: (i) food preparation and handling; (ii) physical plant sanitation; (iii) the provision, storage, and cleansing of linens and towels; (iv) general housekeeping and maintenance practices; (v) requirements for approved water supply and sewage disposal systems; (vi) vector and pest control; (vii) swimming pools, saunas, and other similar facilities, including personnel standards for the operation thereof; (viii) ice machines and dispensers of perishable food items; and (ix) a procedure for obtaining a license. Code 1950, §§ 35-8, 35-9, 35-16, 35-16.1, 35-18; 1956, c. 394; 1964, c. 499; 1970, c. 435; 1981, c. 468.
Va. Code § 35.1-14
§ 35.1-14. Regulations governing restaurants; advisory standards for exempt entities.A. Regulations of the Board governing restaurants shall include but not be limited to the following subjects: (i) a procedure for obtaining a license; (ii) the safe and sanitary maintenance, storage, operation, and use of equipment; (iii) the sanitary maintenance and use of a restaurant's physical plant; (iv) the safe preparation, handling, protection, and preservation of food, including necessary refrigeration or heating methods; (v) procedures for vector and pest control; (vi) requirements for toilet and cleansing facilities for employees and customers; (vii) requirements for appropriate lighting and ventilation not otherwise provided for in the Uniform Statewide Building Code; (viii) requirements for an approved water supply and sewage disposal system; (ix) personal hygiene standards for employees, particularly those engaged in food handling; (x) the appropriate use of precautions to prevent the transmission of communicable diseases; and (xi) training standards that address food safety and food allergy awareness and safety. B. In its regulations, the Board may classify restaurants by type and specify different requirements for each classification. C. The Board may adopt any edition of the Food and Drug Administration's Food Code, or supplement thereto, or any portion thereof, as regulations, with any amendments as it deems appropriate. In addition, the Board may repeal or amend any regulation adopted pursuant to this subsection. No regulations adopted or amended by the Board pursuant to this subsection, however, shall establish requirements for any license, permit, or inspection unless such license, permit, or inspection is otherwise provided for in this title. The provisions of the Food and Drug Administration's Food Code shall not apply to farmers selling their own farm-produced products directly to consumers for their personal use, whether such sales occur on such farmer's farm or at a farmers' market, unless such provisions are adopted in accordance with the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.). D. The Board may issue advisory standards for the safe preparation, handling, protection, and preservation of food by entities exempt from the provisions of this title pursuant to § 35.1-25 or 35.1-26. E. The provisions of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) shall not apply to the adoption of any regulation pursuant to subsection C if the Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services adopts the same edition of the Food Code, or the same portions thereof, pursuant to subsection B of § 3.2-5121 and the regulations adopted by the Board and the Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services have the same effective date. In the event that the Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services adopts regulations pursuant to § 2.2-4012.1, the effective date of the Board's regulations may be any date on or after the effective date of the regulations adopted by the Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Notwithstanding any exemption to the contrary, a regulation promulgated pursuant to subsection C shall be subject to the requirements set out in §§ 2.2-4007.03, 2.2-4007.04, and 2.2-4007.05, and shall be published in the Virginia Register of Regulations. After the close of the 60-day comment period, the Board may adopt a final regulation, with or without changes. Such regulation shall become effective 15 days after publication in the Virginia Register, unless the Board has withdrawn or suspended the regulation, or a later date has been set by the Board. The Board shall also hold at least one public hearing on the proposed regulation during the 60-day comment period. The notice for such public hearing shall include the date, time and place of the hearing. F. The Board shall adopt regulations pursuant to subsection C that allow the receipt for sale or service of rabbits that are slaughtered or processed in a facility that complies with regulations adopted by the Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services pursuant to the provisions of subsection H of § 3.2-5121. G. Regulations adopted by the Board pursuant to this section shall not require an establishment that sells only prepared foods to have a certified food protection manager, as defined in § 35.1-1, on site during all hours of operation. Code 1950, §§ 35-28, 35-32, 35-33, 35-34, 35-35, 35-36, 35-37; 1981, c. 468; 1993, c. 336; 2003, c. 695; 2004, c. 802; 2007, cc. 873, 916; 2015, cc. 356, 528; 2018, c. 674; 2022, c. 393.
Va. Code § 35.1-16
§ 35.1-16. Regulations governing summer camps.The regulations of the Board governing summer camps shall include, but not be limited to: (i) an approved drinking water supply; (ii) an approved sewage disposal system; (iii) an approved solid waste disposal system; (iv) the adequate and sanitary preparation, handling, protection and preservation of food; (v) the proper maintenance of buildings, grounds, and equipment; (vi) vector and pest control; (vii) toilet, swimming, and bathing facilities, including shower facilities; (viii) a procedure for obtaining a license. Code 1950, §§ 35-45, 35-46, 35-47, 35-48, 35-49; 1981, c. 468.
Va. Code § 35.1-17
§ 35.1-17. Regulations governing campgrounds.A. The regulations of the Board governing campgrounds shall include minimum standards for (i) an approved drinking water supply; (ii) an approved sewage disposal system; (iii) an approved solid waste disposal system; (iv) the proper maintenance of buildings, grounds, and equipment; (v) vector and pest control; (vi) toilet, swimming, and bathing facilities, including shower facilities; (vii) effective measures for the control of animals and pets; (viii) appropriate procedures and safeguards for hazardous situations, including specifically the maintenance and sale of propane gas or other explosives and combustibles; and (ix) a procedure for obtaining a license. B. The Board may in its sole discretion prescribe regulations for classes of campgrounds and different requirements for each class. Code 1950, § 35-55; 1981, c. 468. Chapter 3. Licenses; Inspections.
Va. Code § 4.1-1602
§ 4.1-1602. Permit to operate pharmaceutical processor or cannabis dispensing facility.A. No person shall operate a pharmaceutical processor or a cannabis dispensing facility without first obtaining a permit from the Board. The application for such permit shall be made on a form provided by the Authority and signed by a pharmacist who will be in full and actual charge of the pharmaceutical processor's dispensing area or cannabis dispensing facility. The Board shall establish an application fee and other general requirements for such application. B. Each permit shall expire annually on a date determined by the Board in regulation. The number of permits that the Board may issue or renew in any year is limited to one pharmaceutical processor and up to five cannabis dispensing facilities for each health service area established by the Board of Health. Permits shall be displayed in a conspicuous place on the premises of the pharmaceutical processor and cannabis dispensing facility. C. The Board shall adopt regulations establishing health, safety, and security requirements for pharmaceutical processors and cannabis dispensing facilities. Such regulations shall include requirements for (i) physical standards; (ii) location restrictions; (iii) security systems and controls; (iv) minimum equipment and resources; (v) recordkeeping; (vi) labeling and packaging; (vii) routine inspections no more frequently than once annually; (viii) processes for safely and securely dispensing and delivering in person cannabis products to a patient, his registered agent, or, if such patient is a minor or a vulnerable adult as defined in § 18.2-369, such patient's parent or legal guardian; (ix) dosage limitations for cannabis products that provide that each dispensed dose of a cannabis product not exceed 10 milligrams of total tetrahydrocannabinol, except as permitted under § 4.1-1603.2; (x) a process for the wholesale distribution of and the transfer of usable cannabis, botanical cannabis, cannabis oil, and cannabis products between pharmaceutical processors, between a pharmaceutical processor and a cannabis dispensing facility, and between cannabis dispensing facilities; (xi) an allowance for the sale of devices for administration of dispensed cannabis products and hemp-based CBD products that meet the applicable standards set forth in state and federal law, including the laboratory testing standards set forth in subsection N; (xii) an allowance for the use and distribution of inert product samples containing no cannabinoids for patient demonstration exclusively at the pharmaceutical processor or cannabis dispensing facility, and not for further distribution or sale, without the need for a written certification; (xiii) a process for acquiring industrial hemp extracts and formulating such extracts into cannabis products; and (xiv) an allowance for the advertising and promotion of the pharmaceutical processor's products and operations, which shall not limit the pharmaceutical processor from the provision of educational material to practitioners who issue written certifications and patients. The Board shall also adopt regulations for pharmaceutical processors that include requirements for (a) processes for safely and securely cultivating cannabis plants intended for producing cannabis products, (b) the disposal of agricultural waste, and (c) a process for registering cannabis products. D. The Board shall require pharmaceutical processors, after processing and before dispensing any cannabis products, to make a sample available from each batch of cannabis product for testing by an independent laboratory that is located in Commonwealth and meets Board requirements. A valid sample size for testing shall be determined by each laboratory and may vary due to sample matrix, analytical method, and laboratory-specific procedures. A minimum sample size of 0.5 percent of individual units for dispensing or distribution from each homogenized batch of cannabis oil is required to achieve a representative cannabis oil sample for analysis. A minimum sample size, to be determined by the certified testing laboratory, from each batch of botanical cannabis is required to achieve a representative botanical cannabis sample for analysis. Botanical cannabis products shall only be tested for the following: total cannabidiol (CBD), total tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), terpenes, pesticide chemical residue, heavy metals, mycotoxins, moisture, and microbiological contaminants. Testing thresholds shall be consistent with generally accepted cannabis industry thresholds. The pharmaceutical processor may remediate botanical cannabis or cannabis oil that fails any quality testing standard except pesticides. Following remediation, all remediated botanical cannabis or cannabis oil shall be subject to laboratory testing, which shall not be more stringent than initial testing prior to remediation. Remediated botanical cannabis or cannabis oil that passes such quality testing may be packaged and labeled. If a batch of botanical cannabis fails retesting after remediation, it shall be considered usable cannabis and may be processed into cannabis oil. Stability testing shall not be required for any cannabis product with an expiration date assigned by the pharmaceutical processor of 12 months or less from the date of the cannabis product registration approval. Stability testing required for assignment of an expiration date longer than 12 months shall be limited to microbial testing, on a pass/fail basis, and potency testing, on a 15 percent deviation basis, of total THC and total CBD. No cannabis product shall have an expiration date longer than 12 months from the date of the cannabis product registration approval unless supported by stability testing. E. A laboratory testing samples for a pharmaceutical processor shall obtain a controlled substances registration certificate pursuant to § 54.1-3423 and shall comply with quality standards established by the Board of Pharmacy in regulation. F. Every pharmaceutical processor's dispensing area or cannabis dispensing facility shall be under the personal supervision of a licensed pharmacist on the premises of the pharmaceutical processor or cannabis dispensing facility unless all cannabis products are contained in a vault or other similar container to which only the pharmacist has access controls. The pharmaceutical processor shall ensure that security measures are adequate to protect the cannabis from diversion at all times, and the pharmacist-in-charge shall have concurrent responsibility for preventing diversion from the dispensing area. Every pharmaceutical processor shall designate a person who shall have oversight of the cultivation and production areas of the pharmaceutical processor and shall provide such information to the Board. The Board shall direct all communications related to enforcement of requirements related to cultivation and production of cannabis and cannabis products by the pharmaceutical processor to such designated person. G. The Board shall require the material owners of an applicant for a pharmaceutical processor or cannabis dispensing facility permit to submit to fingerprinting and provide personal descriptive information to be forwarded along with his fingerprints through the Central Criminal Records Exchange to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the purpose of obtaining criminal history record information regarding the applicant's material owners. The cost of fingerprinting and the criminal history record search shall be paid by the applicant. The Central Criminal Records Exchange shall forward the results of the criminal history background check to the Board or its designee, which shall be a governmental entity. H. A pharmaceutical processor shall maintain evidence of criminal background checks for all employees and delivery agents of the pharmaceutical processor. Criminal background checks of employees and delivery agents may be conducted by any service sufficient to disclose any federal and state criminal convictions. I. In addition to other employees authorized by the Board, a pharmaceutical processor may employ individuals who may have less than one year of experience (i) to perform cultivation-related duties under the supervision of an individual who has received a degree in a field related to the cultivation of plants or a certification recognized by the Board or who has at least one year of experience cultivating plants, (ii) to perform extraction-related duties under the supervision of an individual who has a degree in chemistry or pharmacology or at least one year of experience extracting chemicals from plants, (iii) to perform duties at the pharmaceutical processor and cannabis dispensing facility upon certification as a pharmacy technician, and (iv) to serve as pharmacy technician trainees. J. A pharmaceutical processor to whom a permit has been issued by the Board may (i) establish up to five cannabis dispensing facilities, subject to the permit requirement set forth in subsection B, for the dispensing of cannabis products that have been cultivated and produced on the premises of a pharmaceutical processor permitted by the Board and (ii) establish, if authorized by the Board, one additional location at which the pharmaceutical processor may cultivate cannabis plants. Each cannabis dispensing facility and the additional cultivation location shall be located within the same health service area as the pharmaceutical processor. K. No person who has been convicted of a felony under the laws of the Commonwealth or another jurisdiction within the last five years shall be employed by or act as an agent of a pharmaceutical processor or cannabis dispensing facility. L. Every pharmaceutical processor or cannabis dispensing facility shall adopt policies for pre-employment drug screening and regular, ongoing, random drug screening of employees. M. A pharmacist at the pharmaceutical processor's dispensing area and the cannabis dispensing facility shall determine the number of pharmacy interns, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacy technician trainees who can be safely and competently supervised at one time; however, no pharmacist shall supervise more than six persons performing the duties of a pharmacy technician at one time in the pharmaceutical processor's dispensing area or cannabis dispensing facility. N. A pharmaceutical processor may acquire from a registered industrial hemp handler or processor industrial hemp extracts that (i) are grown and processed in Virginia in compliance with state or federal law, and (ii) notwithstanding the tetrahydrocannabinol limits set forth in the definition of "industrial hemp extract" in § 3.2-5145.1, contain a total tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of no greater than 0.3 percent. A pharmaceutical processor may process and formulate such extracts into an allowable dosage of cannabis product. Industrial hemp extracts acquired and formulated by a pharmaceutical processor are subject to the same third-party testing requirements that may apply to cannabis plant extract. Testing shall be performed by a laboratory located in Virginia and in compliance with state law governing the testing of cannabis products. The industrial hemp handler or processor shall provide such third-party testing results to the pharmaceutical processor before industrial hemp extracts may be acquired. O. Product labels for all cannabis products and botanical cannabis shall be complete, accurate, easily discernable, and uniform among different products and brands. Pharmaceutical processors shall affix to all cannabis products and botanical cannabis a label, which shall also be accessible on the pharmaceutical processor's website, that includes: 1. The product name; 2. All active and inactive ingredients, including cannabinoids, terpenes, additives, preservatives, flavorings, sweeteners, and carrier oils; 3. The total percentage and milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol included in the product and the number of milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol in each serving; 4. The amount of product that constitutes a single serving and the amount recommended for use by the practitioner or dispensing pharmacist; 5. Information regarding the product's purpose and detailed usage directions; 6. Child and safety warnings in a conspicuous font; and 7. Such other information required by the Board. P. A pharmaceutical processor or cannabis dispensing facility shall maintain an adequate supply of cannabis products that (i) contain cannabidiol as their primary cannabinoid and (ii) have low levels of or no tetrahydrocannabinol. Q. With the exception of § 2.2-4031, neither the provisions of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) nor public participation guidelines adopted pursuant thereto shall apply to the adoption of any regulation pursuant to this section. Prior to adopting any regulation pursuant to this section, the Board shall publish a notice of opportunity to comment in the Virginia Register of Regulations and post the action on the Virginia Regulatory Town Hall. Such notice of opportunity to comment shall contain (i) a summary of the proposed regulation; (ii) the text of the proposed regulation; and (iii) the name, address, and telephone number of the agency contact person responsible for receiving public comments. Such notice shall be made at least 60 days in advance of the last date prescribed in such notice for submittals of public comment. The legislative review provisions of subsections A and B of § 2.2-4014 shall apply to the promulgation or final adoption process for regulations pursuant to this section. The Board shall consider and keep on file all public comments received for any regulation adopted pursuant to this section. 2023, cc. 740, 744, 760, 773, 780, 794, 799, 812; 2024, c. 732.
Va. Code § 46.2-1086
§ 46.2-1086. Devices for emission of smoke screens, gas projectors or flame throwers; prohibited.It shall be a Class 6 felony to install or to aid or abet in installing, in any manner, in or on any motor vehicle any device, appliance, equipment, or instrument of any kind, character, or description, or any part of such device, appliance, equipment, or instrument, designed for generating or emitting smoke, thereby creating what is commonly known as a "smoke screen," or of emitting any gas or flame which may be a hindrance or obstruction to traffic. It shall also be a Class 6 felony to knowingly possess or drive on the highways any motor vehicle so equipped. Additionally, the driver's license of any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be suspended for six months from the date of conviction. The provisions of this section shall not apply to vehicles used in applying herbicides, insecticides, or pesticides. Code 1950, § 46-309; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-305; 1962, c. 302; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code § 55.1-1223
§ 55.1-1223. Notice to tenants for insecticide or pesticide use.A. The landlord shall give written notice to the tenant no less than 48 hours prior to his application of an insecticide or pesticide in the tenant's dwelling unit unless the tenant agrees to a shorter notification period. If a tenant requests the application of the insecticide or pesticide, the 48-hour notice is not required. Tenants who have concerns about specific insecticides or pesticides shall notify the landlord in writing no less than 24 hours before the scheduled insecticide or pesticide application. The tenant shall prepare the dwelling unit for the application of insecticides or pesticides in accordance with any written instructions of the landlord and, if insects or pests are found to be present, follow any written instructions of the landlord to eliminate the insects or pests following the application of insecticides or pesticides. B. In addition, the landlord shall post notice of all insecticide or pesticide applications in areas of the premises other than the dwelling units. Such notice shall consist of conspicuous signs placed in or upon such premises where the insecticide or pesticide will be applied at least 48 hours prior to the application. C. A violation by the tenant of this section may be remedied by the landlord in accordance with § 55.1-1248 or by notice given by the landlord requiring the tenant to remedy in accordance with § 55.1-1245, as applicable. 2000, c. 760, § 55-248.13:3; 2009, c. 663; 2018, c. 221; 2019, c. 712.
Va. Code § 55.1-1227
§ 55.1-1227. Tenant to maintain dwelling unit.A. In addition to the provisions of the rental agreement, the tenant shall: 1. Comply with all obligations primarily imposed upon tenants by applicable provisions of building and housing codes materially affecting health and safety; 2. Keep that part of the dwelling unit and the part of the premises that he occupies and uses as clean and safe as the condition of the premises permit; 3. Keep that part of the dwelling unit and the part of the premises that he occupies free from insects and pests, as those terms are defined in § 3.2-3900, and promptly notify the landlord of the existence of any insects or pests; 4. Remove from his dwelling unit all ashes, garbage, rubbish, and other waste in a clean and safe manner and in the appropriate receptacles provided by the landlord; 5. Keep all plumbing fixtures in the dwelling unit or used by the tenant as clean as their condition permits; 6. Use in a reasonable manner all utilities and all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, and other facilities and appliances, including an elevator in a multifamily premises, and keep all utility services paid for by the tenant to the utility service provider or its agent on at all times during the term of the rental agreement; 7. Not deliberately or negligently destroy, deface, damage, impair, or remove any part of the premises or permit any person, whether known by the tenant or not, to do so; 8. Not remove or tamper with a properly functioning smoke alarm installed by the landlord, including removing any working batteries, so as to render the alarm inoperative. The tenant shall maintain the smoke alarm in accordance with the uniform set of standards for maintenance of smoke alarms established in the Statewide Fire Prevention Code (§ 27-94 et seq.) and subdivision C 6 of § 36-105, Part III of the Uniform Statewide Building Code (§ 36-97 et seq.); 9. Not remove or tamper with a properly functioning carbon monoxide alarm installed by the landlord, including the removal of any working batteries, so as to render the carbon monoxide alarm inoperative. The tenant shall maintain the carbon monoxide alarm in accordance with the uniform set of standards for maintenance of carbon monoxide alarms established in the Statewide Fire Prevention Code (§ 27-94 et seq.) and subdivision C 6 of § 36-105, Part III of the Uniform Statewide Building Code (§ 36-97 et seq.); 10. Use reasonable efforts to maintain the dwelling unit and any other part of the premises that he occupies in such a condition as to prevent accumulation of moisture and the growth of mold and promptly notify the landlord of any moisture accumulation that occurs or of any visible evidence of mold discovered by the tenant; 11. Not paint or disturb painted surfaces or make alterations in the dwelling unit without the prior written approval of the landlord, provided that (i) the dwelling unit was constructed prior to 1978 and therefore requires the landlord to provide the tenant with lead-based paint disclosures and (ii) the landlord has provided the tenant with such disclosures and the rental agreement provides that the tenant is required to obtain the landlord's prior written approval before painting, disturbing painted surfaces, or making alterations in the dwelling unit; 12. Be responsible for his conduct and the conduct of other persons, whether known by the tenant or not, who are on the premises with his consent, to ensure that his neighbors' peaceful enjoyment of the premises will not be disturbed; 13. Abide by all reasonable rules and regulations imposed by the landlord; 14. Be financially responsible for the added cost of treatment or extermination due to the tenant's unreasonable delay in reporting the existence of any insects or pests and be financially responsible for the cost of treatment or extermination due to the tenant's fault in failing to prevent infestation of any insects or pests in the area occupied; and 15. Use reasonable care to prevent any dog or other animal in possession of the tenant, authorized occupants, or guests or invitees from causing personal injuries to a third party in the dwelling unit or on the premises, or property damage to the dwelling unit or the premises. B. If the duty imposed by subdivision A 1 is greater than any duty imposed by any other subdivision of that subsection, the tenant's duty shall be determined by reference to subdivision A 1. 1974, c. 680, § 55-248.16; 1987, c. 428; 1999, c. 80; 2000, c. 760; 2003, c. 355; 2004, c. 226; 2008, cc. 489, 617, 640; 2009, c. 663; 2011, c. 766; 2014, c. 632; 2016, c. 744; 2017, cc. 262, 730; 2018, cc. 41, 81, 221; 2019, c. 712.
Va. Code § 55.1-1244.1
§ 55.1-1244.1. Tenant's remedy by repair.A. For purposes of this section, "actual costs" means (i) the amount paid on an invoice to a third-party licensed contractor or a licensed pesticide business by a tenant, local government, or nonprofit entity or (ii) the amount donated by a third-party contractor or pesticide business as reflected on such contractor's or pesticide business's invoice. B. If (i) there exists in the dwelling unit a condition that constitutes a material noncompliance by the landlord with the rental agreement or with provisions of law or that, if not promptly corrected, will constitute a fire hazard or serious threat to the life, health, or safety of occupants of the premises, including an infestation of rodents or a lack of heat, hot or cold running water, light, electricity, or adequate sewage disposal facilities, and (ii) the tenant has notified the landlord of the condition in writing, the landlord shall take reasonable steps to make the repair or to remedy such condition within 14 days of receiving notice from the tenant. C. If the landlord does not take reasonable steps to repair or remedy the offending condition within 14 days of receiving a tenant's notice pursuant to subsection B, the tenant may contract with a third-party contractor licensed by the Board for Contractors or, in the case of a rodent infestation, a pesticide business employing commercial applicators or registered technicians who are licensed, certified, and registered with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services pursuant to Chapter 39 (§ 3.2-3900 et seq.) of Title 3.2, to repair or remedy the condition specified in the notice. A tenant who contracts with a third-party licensed contractor or pesticide business is entitled to recover the actual costs incurred for the work performed, not exceeding the greater of one month's rent or $1,500. Unless the tenant has been reimbursed by the landlord, the tenant may deduct the actual costs incurred for the work performed pursuant to the contract with the third-party contractor or pesticide business after submitting to the landlord an itemized statement accompanied by receipts for purchased items and third-party contractor or pest control services. D. A local government or nonprofit entity may procure the services of a third-party licensed contractor or pesticide business on behalf of the tenant pursuant to subsection B. Such assistance shall have no effect on the tenant's entitlement under this section to be reimbursed by the landlord or to make a deduction from the periodic rent. E. A tenant may not repair a property condition at the landlord's expense under this section to the extent that (i) the property condition was caused by an act or omission of the tenant, an authorized occupant, or a guest or invitee; (ii) the landlord was unable to remedy the property condition because the landlord was denied access to the dwelling unit; or (iii) the landlord had already remedied the property condition prior to the tenant's contracting with a licensed third-party contractor or pesticide business pursuant to subsection C. 2020, c. 1020. Article 5. Landlord Remedies. This section has more than one version with varying effective dates. To view a complete list of the versions of this section see Table of Contents.
Va. Code § 55.1-1818
§ 55.1-1818. Common areas; notice of pesticide application.The association shall post notice of all pesticide applications in or upon the common areas. Such notice shall consist of conspicuous signs placed in or upon the common areas where the pesticide will be applied at least 48 hours prior to the application. 2011, c. 264, § 55-510.3; 2019, c. 712.
Va. Code § 55.1-1957
§ 55.1-1957. Common elements; notice of pesticide application.The unit owners' association shall post notice of all pesticide applications in or upon the common elements. Such notice shall consist of conspicuous signs placed in or upon the common elements where the pesticide will be applied at least 48 hours prior to the application. 1999, c. 65, § 55-79.80:01; 2019, c. 712.
Va. Code § 55.1-2139
§ 55.1-2139. Common elements; notice of pesticide application.Associations shall post notification of all pesticide applications in or upon the common elements. Such notice shall consist of conspicuous signs placed in or upon the common elements where the pesticide will be applied at least 48 hours prior to the application. 1999, c. 65, § 55-464.1; 2019, c. 712.
Va. Code § 58.1-337
§ 58.1-337. Tax credit for purchase of conservation tillage and precision agriculture equipment.A. 1. For taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2021, but before January 1, 2030, any individual engaged in agricultural production for market who has in place a soil conservation plan approved by the local soil and water conservation district and is implementing a nutrient management plan developed by a certified nutrient management planner in accordance with § 10.1-104.2 by the required tax return filing date of the individual shall be allowed a refundable credit against the tax imposed by § 58.1-320 of an amount equaling 25 percent of all expenditures made by such individual for the purchase of equipment certified by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board as reducing soil compaction such as a "no-till" planter, drill, or other equipment or equipment that provides more precise pesticide and fertilizer application or injection. For purposes of this section, equipment that reduces soil compaction includes equipment utilizing guidance systems to control traffic patterns that are designed to minimize the disturbance of soil in planting crops, including such planters, drills, or other equipment that may be attached to equipment already owned by the taxpayer. 2. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Virginia State University shall provide at the request of the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board technical assistance in determining appropriate specifications for certified equipment which would provide for more precise pesticide and fertilizer application to reduce the potential for adverse environmental impacts. The equipment shall be divided into the following categories: a. Sprayers for pesticides and liquid fertilizers; b. Pneumatic fertilizer applicators; c. Monitors, computer regulators, and height-adjustable booms for sprayers and liquid fertilizer applicators; d. Manure applicators; e. Tramline adapters; and f. Starter fertilizer banding attachments for planters. 3. The amount of such credit under this subsection shall not exceed $17,500 in the year of purchase. If the amount of the credit exceeds the taxpayer's liability for such taxable year, the excess may be refunded by the Tax Commissioner. Tax credits shall be refunded by the Tax Commissioner on behalf of the Commonwealth for 100 percent of face value. Tax credits shall be refunded within 90 days after the filing date of the income tax return on which the individual applies for the refund. 4. For purposes of this subsection, the amount of any credit attributable to the purchase of equipment certified by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board as reducing soil compaction or providing more precise pesticide and fertilizer application or injection by a partnership or electing small business corporation (S corporation) shall be allocated to the individual partners or shareholders in proportion to their ownership or interest in the partnership or S corporation. B. 1. For taxable years beginning before January 1, 2021, any individual engaged in agricultural production for market who has in place a nutrient management plan approved by the local soil and water conservation district by the required tax return filing date of the individual shall be allowed a credit against the tax imposed by § 58.1-320 of an amount equaling 25 percent of all expenditures made by such individual for the purchase of equipment certified by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board as providing more precise pesticide and fertilizer application. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Virginia State University shall provide at the request of the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board technical assistance in determining appropriate specifications for certified equipment which would provide for more precise pesticide and fertilizer application to reduce the potential for adverse environmental impacts. The equipment shall be divided into the following categories: a. Sprayers for pesticides and liquid fertilizers; b. Pneumatic fertilizer applicators; c. Monitors, computer regulators, and height-adjustable booms for sprayers and liquid fertilizer applicators; d. Manure applicators; e. Tramline adapters; and f. Starter fertilizer banding attachments for planters. 2. The amount of such credit under subdivision 1 shall not exceed $3,750 or the total amount of the tax imposed by this chapter, whichever is less, in the year of purchase. If the amount of such credit exceeds the taxpayer's tax liability for such taxable year, the amount which exceeds the tax liability may be carried over for credit against the income taxes of such individual in the next five taxable years until the total amount of the tax credit has been taken. 3. For purposes of this subsection, the amount of any credit attributable to the purchase of equipment certified by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board as providing more precise pesticide and fertilizer application by a partnership or electing small business corporation (S corporation) shall be allocated to the individual partners or shareholders in proportion to their ownership or interest in the partnership or S corporation. 1990, c. 416; 1996, c. 739; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 272; 2024, cc. 212, 234.
Va. Code § 58.1-3505
§ 58.1-3505. Classification of farm animals, certain grains, agricultural products, farm machinery, farm implements and equipment; governing body may exempt.A. Farm animals, grains and other feeds used for the nurture of farm animals, agricultural products as defined in § 3.2-6400, farm machinery and farm implements are hereby defined as separate items of taxation and classified as follows: 1. Horses, mules and other kindred animals. 2. Cattle. 3. Sheep and goats. 4. Hogs. 5. Poultry. 6. Grains and other feeds used for the nurture of farm animals. 7. Grain; tobacco; wine produced by farm wineries as defined in § 4.1-100 and other agricultural products in the hands of a producer. 8. a. Farm machinery and farm implements other than the farm machinery and farm implements described in subdivision 10, which shall include (i) equipment and machinery used by farm wineries as defined in § 4.1-100 in the production of wine; (ii) equipment and machinery used by a nursery for the production of horticultural products; (iii) any farm tractor as defined in § 46.2-100, regardless of whether such farm tractor is used exclusively for agricultural purposes; (iv) motor vehicles that are used primarily for agricultural purposes, for which the owner is not required to obtain a registration certificate, license plate, and decal or pay a registration fee pursuant to § 46.2-665, 46.2-666, or 46.2-670; and (v) privately owned trailers as defined in § 46.2-100 that are primarily used by farmers in their farming operations for the transportation of farm animals or other farm products as enumerated in subdivisions 1 through 7. For purposes of this section, "nursery" means any premises where nursery stock is propagated, grown, fumigated, treated, packed, stored, or otherwise prepared for sale or distribution, and "nursery stock" means all trees, shrubs, woody vines (including ornamentals), bush fruits, grapevines, fruit trees, and nut trees offered for sale and distribution; all buds, grafts, scions, and cuttings from such plants; and any container, soil, and other packing material with such plants or plant products. "Nursery stock" also means herbaceous plants and any florist or greenhouse plants. b. Farm machinery, farm equipment, and farm implements, other than farm machinery and farm implements described in subdivision 10, used by an indoor, closed, controlled-environment commercial agricultural facility, including property described in subdivisions 8 a and b of § 58.1-609.2, for the production of agricultural products. For purposes of this subdivision, "indoor, closed, controlled-environment commercial agricultural facility" shall include indoor vertical farming or a greenhouse. 9. Equipment used by farmers or farm cooperatives qualifying under § 521 of the Internal Revenue Code to manufacture industrial ethanol, provided that the materials from which the ethanol is derived consist primarily of farm products. 10. Farm machinery designed solely for the planting, production or harvesting of a single product or commodity. 11. Unless exempted by subdivision 8, privately owned trailers as defined in § 46.2-100 that are primarily used by farmers in their farming operations for the transportation of farm animals or other farm products as enumerated in subdivisions 1 through 7. 12. Unless exempted by subdivision 8, motor vehicles that are used primarily for agricultural purposes, for which the owner is not required to obtain a registration certificate, license plate, and decal or pay a registration fee pursuant to § 46.2-665, 46.2-666, or 46.2-670, or pickup or panel trucks or sport utility vehicles for which the owner is required to obtain a permanent farm use placard pursuant to § 46.2-684.2. 13. Trucks or tractor trucks as defined in § 46.2-100, that are primarily used by farmers in their farming operations for the transportation of farm animals or other farm products as enumerated in subdivisions 1 through 7 or for the transport of farm-related machinery. 14. Farm machinery and farm implements, other than the farm machinery and farm implements described in subdivisions 8 and 10, which shall include equipment and machinery used for forest harvesting and silvicultural activities. 15. Farm machinery and farm implements, other than the farm machinery and farm implements described in subdivisions 8, 10, and 14, which shall include season-extending vegetable hoop houses used for in-field production of produce. B. The governing body of any county, city or town may, by ordinance duly adopted, exempt in whole or in part from taxation, or provide a different rate of tax upon, all or any of the above classes of farm animals, grains and feeds used for the nurture of farm animals, farm vehicles, and farm machinery, implements or equipment set forth in subsection A. C. Grain; tobacco; wine produced by farm wineries as defined in § 4.1-100; and other agricultural products, as defined in § 3.2-6400, shall be exempt from taxation under this chapter while in the hands of a producer. 1976, c. 560; 1979, c. 576; 1980, c. 314; 1984, cc. 150, 675; 1993, c. 866; 1998, c. 332; 2004, c. 556; 2012, c. 272; 2018, cc. 30, 618; 2019, c. 259; 2020, c. 251; 2023, cc. 85, 86, 344; 2024, cc. 87, 88.
Va. Code § 58.1-436
§ 58.1-436. Tax credit for purchase of conservation tillage and precision agricultural application equipment.A. 1. For taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2021, but before January 1, 2030, any corporation engaged in agricultural production for market which has in place a soil conservation plan approved by the local soil and water conservation district and is implementing a nutrient management plan developed by a certified nutrient management planner in accordance with § 10.1-104.2 by the required tax return filing date of the corporation shall be allowed a refundable credit against the tax imposed by § 58.1-400 in an amount equaling 25 percent of all expenditures made by such corporation for the purchase of equipment certified by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board as reducing soil compaction such as a "no-till" planter, drill, or other equipment or equipment that provides more precise pesticide and fertilizer application or injection. For purposes of this section, equipment that reduces soil compaction includes equipment utilizing guidance systems to control traffic patterns that are designed to minimize the disturbance of soil in planting crops, including such planters, drills, or other equipment that may be attached to equipment already owned by the taxpayer. 2. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Virginia State University shall provide at the request of the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board technical assistance in determining appropriate specifications for certified equipment which would provide for more precise pesticide and fertilizer application to reduce the potential for adverse environmental impacts. The equipment shall be divided into the following categories: a. Sprayers for pesticides and liquid fertilizers; b. Pneumatic fertilizer applicators; c. Monitors, computer regulators, and height-adjustable booms for sprayers and liquid fertilizer applicators; d. Manure applicators; e. Tramline adapters; and f. Starter fertilizer banding attachments for planters. 3. The amount of such credit under this subsection shall not exceed $17,500 in the year of purchase. If the amount of the credit exceeds the taxpayer's liability for such taxable year, the excess shall be refunded by the Tax Commissioner. Tax credits shall be refunded by the Tax Commissioner on behalf of the Commonwealth for 100 percent of face value. Tax credits shall be refunded within 90 days after the filing date of the income tax return on which the taxpayer applies for the refund. 4. For purposes of this subsection, the amount of any credit attributable to the purchase of equipment certified by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board as reducing soil compaction or providing more precise pesticide and fertilizer application or injection by a partnership or S corporation shall be allocated to the individual partners or shareholders in proportion to their ownership or interest in the partnership or S corporation. B. 1. For taxable years beginning before January 1, 2021, any corporation engaged in agricultural production for market which has in place a nutrient management plan approved by the local soil and water conservation district by the required tax return filing date of the corporation shall be allowed a credit against the tax imposed by § 58.1-400 of an amount equaling 25 percent of all expenditures made by such corporation for the purchase of equipment certified by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board as providing more precise pesticide and fertilizer application. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Virginia State University shall provide at the request of the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board technical assistance in determining appropriate specifications for certified equipment which would provide for more precise pesticide and fertilizer application to reduce the potential for adverse environmental impacts. The equipment shall be divided into the following categories: a. Sprayers for pesticides and liquid fertilizers; b. Pneumatic fertilizer applicators; c. Monitors, computer regulators, and height adjustable booms for sprayers and liquid fertilizer applicators; d. Manure applicators; e. Tramline adapters; and f. Starter fertilizer banding attachments for planters. 2. The amount of such credit under subdivision 1 shall not exceed $3,750 or the total amount of the tax imposed by this chapter, whichever is less, in the year of purchase. If the amount of such credit exceeds the taxpayer's tax liability for such taxable year, the amount which exceeds the tax liability may be carried over for credit against the income taxes of such corporation in the next five taxable years until the total amount of the tax credit has been taken. Credits granted to a partnership or electing small business corporation (S corporation) shall be passed through to the partners or shareholders, respectively. 3. For purposes of this subsection, the amount of any credit attributable to the purchase of equipment certified by the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board as providing more precise pesticide and fertilizer application by a partnership or S corporation shall be allocated to the individual partners or shareholders in proportion to their ownership or interest in the partnership or S corporation. 1990, c. 416; 1996, c. 739; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 272; 2024, cc. 212, 234.
The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)