Virginia § 29.1-748.1 - Local ordinances; operation on lakes; minimum distance from shoreline; penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 29.1-748.1 — Local ordinances; operation on lakes; minimum distance from shoreline; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 29.1-748.1. Local ordinances; operation on lakes; minimum distance from shoreline; penalty
A. Any locality in Planning District 23 may, by ordinance, prohibit the operation of a personal watercraft on a public lake measuring less than 50 acres in extent. Such ordinance shall provide that a violation of the prohibition constitutes a Class 4 misdemeanor. Any violation of such an ordinance shall be subject to the provisions of subsection C of § 29.1-748.
B. The City of Virginia Beach may, by ordinance, regulate in any portion of a waterway located solely within its territorial limits, the minimum distance that personal watercraft may be operated from the shoreline in excess of the slowest possible speed required to maintain steerage and headway. Such ordinance shall provide for distances of 100 feet from the shoreline and 200 feet from swimmers in ocean waters, and shall provide for local enforcement and penalties not exceeding those applicable to Class 4 misdemeanors. Nothing in this subsection prohibits access to and from waters where operation is not otherwise restricted.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 29.1-748.1
What does Code of Virginia § 29.1-748.1 cover?
Section 29.1-748.1 ("Local ordinances; operation on lakes; minimum distance from shoreline; 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 § 29.1-748.1?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 29.1-748.1" (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 § 29.1-748.1 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.