Virginia § 21-302 - Petition based on widening, deepening, etc., of natural streams
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 21-302 — Petition based on widening, deepening, etc., of natural streams, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 21-302. Petition based on widening, deepening, etc., of natural streams
If the majority of the landowners in any wet, swamp or overflowed lands petition the court for a drainage district based on the widening, deepening, cleaning or straightening of such natural streams only as the United States government or the state drainage authorities pronounce as essential for the drainage of such lands, and agree in the petition to a tax levy for such draining, spread equally over each acre, then the court shall entertain such petition and all proceedings shall be in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, except that the viewers shall not classify the lands as to the benefit derived. Furthermore, in any case where it is made to appear, after the natural stream has been widened, reopened, cleaned out or straightened, that the majority of the landowners of any district, formed under the provisions of this section, desire that such district be divided into subdistricts, the court may, in its discretion so order.
Code 1919, § 1738; 1920, p. 608; 1924, p. 708; 1926, p. 607.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 21-302
What does Code of Virginia § 21-302 cover?
Section 21-302 ("Petition based on widening, deepening, etc., of natural streams") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 21-302?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 21-302" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 21-302 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.