Virginia § 15.2-2288.01 - Localities shall not require a special use permit for certain small-scale conversion of biomass to alternative fuel
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 15.2-2288.01 — Localities shall not require a special use permit for certain small-scale conversion of biomass to alternative fuel, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15.2-2288.01. Localities shall not require a special use permit for certain small-scale conversion of biomass to alternative fuel
A. As used in this section, unless the context requires a different meaning:
"Biomass" means agricultural-related materials including vineyard, grain or crop residues; straws; aquatic plants; and crops and trees planted for energy production.
"Small-scale conversion of biomass" means the conversion of any renewable biomass into heat, power, or biofuels.
B. A zoning ordinance shall not require that a special exception or special use permit be obtained for the small-scale conversion of biomass if: (i) at least 50 percent of the feedstock is produced either on site or by the owner of the conversion equipment; (ii) any structure used for the processing of the feedstock into energy occupies less than 4,000 square feet, not including the space required for storage of feedstock; and (iii) the owner of the farm notifies the administrative head of the locality in which the processing occurs. Localities may adopt reasonable requirements for setback, minimum lot area, and restrictions on the hours of operation and maximum noise levels applicable to the small-scale conversion of biomass. No setback, lot area, hours of operation or noise requirements may be more restrictive than similar provisions for other agricultural structures or activities.
2009, c. 363.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 15.2-2288.01
What does Code of Virginia § 15.2-2288.01 cover?
Section 15.2-2288.01 ("Localities shall not require a special use permit for certain small-scale conversion of biomass to alternative fuel") 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 § 15.2-2288.01?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 15.2-2288.01" (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 § 15.2-2288.01 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.