Virginia § 28.2-309 - Distance nets may extend across body of water or channel; prohibition; regulations; penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 28.2-309 — Distance nets may extend across body of water or channel; prohibition; regulations; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 28.2-309. Distance nets may extend across body of water or channel; prohibition; regulations; penalty
A. It is unlawful to set or fish any net or nets across any river, bay, estuary, creek, or inlet which are longer than one-fourth the width of the body of water from mean low water to mean low water at the point where the net or nets are set or fished.
B. It is unlawful to set or fish any net, other than a menhaden net, in any portion of a marked channel of a river, bay, estuary, creek, or inlet which has navigation aids installed or approved by any agency of government. However, the prohibitions and restrictions on setting nets contained in this subsection shall not apply to any net set on the eastern or ocean side of the Counties of Accomack and Northampton. The Commission shall have the authority to promulgate regulations governing the setting of any net on the eastern or ocean side of the Counties of Accomack and Northampton.
C. It shall be unlawful to set or fish any net which is a hazard to navigation.
D. Any person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.
Code 1950, § 28-47; 1950, p. 981; 1962, c. 406, § 28.1-53; 1968, c. 748; 1990, c. 212; 1991, c. 683; 1992, c. 836.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 28.2-309
What does Code of Virginia § 28.2-309 cover?
Section 28.2-309 ("Distance nets may extend across body of water or channel; prohibition; regulations; 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 § 28.2-309?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 28.2-309" (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 § 28.2-309 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.