Virginia § 15.2-301 - Petition or resolution asking for referendum; notice; conduct of election
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 15.2-301 — Petition or resolution asking for referendum; notice; conduct of election, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15.2-301. Petition or resolution asking for referendum; notice; conduct of election
A. A county may adopt one of the optional forms of government provided for in Chapters 4 through 8 of this title only after approval by voter referendum. The referendum shall be initiated by (i) a petition filed with the circuit court for the county signed by at least ten percent of the voters of the county, asking that a referendum be held on the question of adopting one of the forms of government or (ii) a resolution passed by the board of supervisors and filed with the circuit court asking for a referendum. The petition or resolution shall specify which of the forms of government provided for in Chapters 4 through 8 is to be placed on the ballot for consideration. Only one form may be placed on the ballot for consideration.
B. Notice of the election shall be published three times in a newspaper having a general circulation in the county, with the first notice appearing no more than 35 days before and the third notice appearing no less than seven days before the election. Notice of the election shall also be posted at the door of the county courthouse.
C. The election shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of § 24.2-684. In addition to the certifications required by such section, the secretary of the appropriate electoral board shall certify the results to the Commission on Local Government.
D. Prior to adopting an optional form of government provided for in Chapter 5 or Chapter 6, a county shall also comply with the referendum requirements of § 24.2-686.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 15.2-301
What does Code of Virginia § 15.2-301 cover?
Section 15.2-301 ("Petition or resolution asking for referendum; notice; conduct of election") 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 § 15.2-301?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 15.2-301" (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 § 15.2-301 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.