Virginia § 28.2-520 - Use of hydraulic dredges prohibited; exceptions; penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 28.2-520 — Use of hydraulic dredges prohibited; exceptions; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 28.2-520. Use of hydraulic dredges prohibited; exceptions; penalty
A. It shall be unlawful for any person, unless he has been issued a permit by the Commission pursuant to subsection B, to (i) take or catch clams through the use of a hydraulic dredge or (ii) have on board his boat a hydraulic dredge designed for harvesting seafood.
B. The Commission may issue a permit authorizing the possession and use of a (i) hydraulic dredge for the purpose of (a) transiting state waters or (b) conducting legitimate aquaculture research and (ii) handheld hydraulically operated device for harvesting cultured clams from leased grounds.
C. Notwithstanding the provisions of clause (ii) of subsection A, a person may have on board his boat a hydraulic dredge designed for harvesting seafood when traveling to or from docks for maintenance or repair of the boat or equipment, or when off-loading catches made in federal waters.
D. The Commission and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science may possess and use hydraulic dredges to take and catch shellfish on an experimental basis.
E. Any person who violates this section is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.
1981, c. 138, § 28.1-128.01; 1992, c. 836; 2001, c. 377; 2015, c. 675.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 28.2-520
What does Code of Virginia § 28.2-520 cover?
Section 28.2-520 ("Use of hydraulic dredges prohibited; exceptions; penalty") 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 § 28.2-520?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 28.2-520" (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 § 28.2-520 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.