Virginia § 18.2-316 - Duty of persons causing well or pit to be dug to fill it before abandonment
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 18.2-316 — Duty of persons causing well or pit to be dug to fill it before abandonment, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18.2-316. Duty of persons causing well or pit to be dug to fill it before abandonment
Any person who has caused to be dug on his own land or the land of another any well or pit, shall fill such well or pit with earth so that the same shall not be dangerous to human beings, animals or fowls before such well or such pit is abandoned; and any person owning land whereon any such well or pit is located shall in the same manner fill with earth any such well or pit which has been abandoned, provided such person has knowledge of the existence of such well or pit.
But in the case of mining operations in lieu of filling the shaft or pit the owner or operator thereof on ceasing operations in such shaft or pit shall securely fence the same and keep the same at all times thereafter securely fenced.
Any person violating any provision of this section shall be deemed guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.
Code 1950, § 18.1-73; 1960, c. 358; 1975, cc. 14, 15.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 18.2-316
What does Code of Virginia § 18.2-316 cover?
Section 18.2-316 ("Duty of persons causing well or pit to be dug to fill it before abandonment") 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 § 18.2-316?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 18.2-316" (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 § 18.2-316 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.