Virginia § 28.2-1210 - Removal of obstructions or hazardous property from state waters; penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 28.2-1210 — Removal of obstructions or hazardous property from state waters; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 28.2-1210. Removal of obstructions or hazardous property from state waters; penalty
A. Whenever any wharf, pier, piling, bulkhead, structure, or vessel is found in or upon the bays, oceans, rivers, streams or creeks of the Commonwealth in a state of abandonment, in danger of sinking, or in such disrepair as to constitute a hazard or obstruction to the use of such waterway, the Commission may ascertain the owner of the property and require him to repair or remove the property from the waters of the Commonwealth. If the identity or location of the owner remains unknown and unascertainable after a diligent search and the posting of proper notice at the last known address of the owner, if known, the Commission may have the property removed from the waterways of the Commonwealth after giving notice by publication once in a newspaper of general circulation in the area where such property is located.
B. It is unlawful for any person who owns a vessel to allow such vessel, for more than one week after delivery of notification by the Commission or a law-enforcement official in person or by United States Postal Service certified mail, return receipt requested, to be in a state of abandonment and in danger of sinking, or in such disrepair as to constitute a hazard or obstruction to the use of a waterway. Upon the occurrence of a natural disaster or other act of God, the Commission or law-enforcement official shall not issue a notification until sixty days following such occurrence. Any person who violates this subsection is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.
1974, c. 602, § 62.1-194.1:1; 1992, c. 836; 1997, c. 258; 1999, c. 544.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 28.2-1210
What does Code of Virginia § 28.2-1210 cover?
Section 28.2-1210 ("Removal of obstructions or hazardous property from state waters; penalty") 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 § 28.2-1210?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 28.2-1210" (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 § 28.2-1210 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.