Virginia § 10.1-1004 - Vandalism; penalties
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 10.1-1004 — Vandalism; penalties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 10.1-1004. Vandalism; penalties
A. It shall be unlawful for any person, without express, prior, written permission of the owner, to:
1. Break, break off, crack, carve upon, write, burn, or otherwise mark upon, remove, or in any manner destroy, disturb, deface, mar, or harm the surfaces of any cave or any natural material which may be found therein, whether attached or broken, including speleothems, speleogens, and sedimentary deposits. The provisions of this section shall not prohibit minimal disturbance for scientific exploration.
2. Break, force, tamper with, or otherwise disturb a lock, gate, door, or other obstruction designed to control or prevent access to any cave, even though entrance thereto may not be gained.
3. Remove, deface, or tamper with a sign stating that a cave is posted or citing provisions of this chapter.
4. Excavate, remove, destroy, injure, deface, or in any manner disturb any burial grounds, historic or prehistoric resources, archaeological or paleontological site or any part thereof, including relics, inscriptions, saltpeter workings, fossils, bones, remains of historical human activity, or any other such features which may be found in any cave, except those caves owned by the Commonwealth or designated as Commonwealth archaeological sites or zones, and which are subject to the provisions of the Virginia Antiquities Act (§ 10.1-2300 et seq.).
B. Entering or remaining in a cave which has not been posted by the owner shall not by itself constitute a violation of this section.
C. Any violation of this section shall be punished as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
D. The provisions of this section shall not apply to an owner of a cave on his own property.
1979, c. 252, § 10-150.13; 1982, c. 81; 1988, c. 891.
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 10.1-1004
What does Code of Virginia § 10.1-1004 cover?
Section 10.1-1004 ("Vandalism; penalties") 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 § 10.1-1004?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 10.1-1004" (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 § 10.1-1004 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.