Virginia § 15.2-3520 - Counties, cities and towns specified; alternative consolidations
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 15.2-3520 — Counties, cities and towns specified; alternative consolidations, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15.2-3520. Counties, cities and towns specified; alternative consolidations
By complying with the requirements specified in this article, any one or more counties or cities having a common boundary, or any county and all incorporated towns located entirely therein, may consolidate into a single county or city; however, no consolidation instituted under the provisions of this article shall result in the creation of consolidated cities, unless such proposed consolidation is reviewed by the Commission on Local Government and a special court established pursuant to § 15.2-3522 and they meet the criteria set out in subsection A of § 15.2-3526.
The term "incorporated towns" as used in this article means only those incorporated towns which have held municipal elections in the ten years preceding the date of the filing of a petition for a referendum pursuant to § 15.2-3529.
If two or more like units of local government propose to consolidate into a consolidated like unit of local government, they shall do so in accordance with the provisions of Article 1 of this chapter.
This article applies to the (i) consolidation of unlike units of local governments such as a county and a city joining to form either a county or city; (ii) consolidation of like units of local governments into an unlike unit of local government such as a county and a county joining to form a city; or (iii) other combinations provided for herein.
1979, c. 85, § 15.1-1130.1; 1983, c. 4; 1997, c. 587.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 15.2-3520
What does Code of Virginia § 15.2-3520 cover?
Section 15.2-3520 ("Counties, cities and towns specified; alternative consolidations") 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 § 15.2-3520?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 15.2-3520" (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 § 15.2-3520 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.