Virginia § 10.1-1704 - Diversion of property from open-space land use; conveyance or lease of open-space land
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 10.1-1704 — Diversion of property from open-space land use; conveyance or lease of open-space land, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 10.1-1704. Diversion of property from open-space land use; conveyance or lease of open-space land
A. No open-space land, the title to or interest or right in which has been acquired under this chapter and which has been designated as open-space land under the authority of this chapter, shall be converted or diverted from open-space land use unless (i) the conversion or diversion is determined by the public body to be (a) essential to the orderly development and growth of the locality and (b) in accordance with the official comprehensive plan for the locality in effect at the time of conversion or diversion and (ii) there is substituted other real property which is (a) of at least equal fair market value, (b) of greater value as permanent open-space land than the land converted or diverted and (c) of as nearly as feasible equivalent usefulness and location for use as permanent open-space land as is the land converted or diverted. The public body shall assure that the property substituted will be subject to the provisions of this chapter.
B. A public body may convey or lease any real property it has acquired and which has been designated for the purposes of this chapter. The conveyance or lease shall be subject to contractual arrangements that will preserve the property as open-space land, unless the property is to be converted or diverted from open-space land use in accordance with the provisions of subsection A of this section.
1966, c. 461, § 10-153; 1988, c. 891; 1997, c. 338.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 10.1-1704
What does Code of Virginia § 10.1-1704 cover?
Section 10.1-1704 ("Diversion of property from open-space land use; conveyance or lease of open-space land") 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 § 10.1-1704?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 10.1-1704" (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 § 10.1-1704 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.