Virginia § 28.2-707 - Restrictions on crab dredging; penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 28.2-707 — Restrictions on crab dredging; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 28.2-707. Restrictions on crab dredging; penalty
A. It is unlawful for any boat licensed to dredge crabs to use more than two dredges at any time when dredging for crabs. Such boat may use only one dredge on each side of the boat or join two dredges together for use over the stern of the boat. The size of dredges shall not exceed limits established by the Commission. The Commission is authorized to promulgate regulations limiting the size of dredges.
B. It is unlawful to dislodge crabs from the bottom with a crab dredge using hydraulic methods.
C. It is unlawful to use a crab dredge on Saturday.
D. It is unlawful to use a dredge for catching crabs between April 1 and December 1; however, the Commission, when in its judgment it is advisable due to weather conditions or for purposes relating to the conservation of the blue crab and it is not contrary to the public interest, may close a season in its entirety, may open any season as early as November 16, may delay opening any season, may extend any season until April 16 and may close any season early.
E. It is unlawful to use dredges to take crabs in any of the rivers, or their estuaries, inlets, or creeks, except on the ocean side of Accomack and Northampton Counties.
Any person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.
Code 1950, § 28-171; 1960, c. 517; 1962, c. 406, § 28.1-166; 1981, c. 52; 1983, c. 603, § 28.1-165.1; 1992, cc. 122, 836; 1994, c. 492; 1996, c. 433.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 28.2-707
What does Code of Virginia § 28.2-707 cover?
Section 28.2-707 ("Restrictions on crab dredging; 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 § 28.2-707?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 28.2-707" (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 § 28.2-707 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.