Virginia § 33.2-1704 - Condemnation of projects and property

Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 33.2-1704 — Condemnation of projects and property, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 33.2-1704. Condemnation of projects and property

A. Whenever a reasonable price cannot be agreed upon or whenever the owner is legally incapacitated, absent, unable to convey valid title, or unknown, the Board may acquire by condemnation any project contemplated by § 33.2-1703 or interest therein and any lands, rights, easements, franchises, and other property deemed necessary or convenient for the improvement or the efficient operation of any project acquired or constructed under this chapter, or for the purpose of constructing any project or portion thereof pursuant to this chapter, or for securing a right-of-way leading to any such project or its approaches, in the manner provided in this chapter. Such condemnation proceedings shall be conducted and the compensation to be paid shall be ascertained and paid in the manner provided by law with reference to the condemnation of property by the Board for state highway purposes.

B. Title to any property condemned by the Board shall be taken in the name of the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth shall be under no obligation to accept and pay for any property condemned or any cost incidental to any condemnation proceedings and shall not pay for the same except from the funds provided by this chapter; and in any condemnation proceedings, the court having jurisdiction of the suit, action, or proceeding may make such orders as may be just to the Commonwealth and to the owners of the property to be condemned and may require an undertaking or other security to secure such owners against any loss or damage to be sustained by reason of the failure of the Commonwealth to accept and pay for the property, but such undertaking or security shall impose no liability upon the Commonwealth, except such as may be paid from the funds provided under the authority of this chapter, provided that condemnation shall not lie in any case when the Commonwealth, in granting a franchise to any project named in this chapter, has stipulated the terms upon which it may acquire such project.

Code 1950, § 33-232; 1970, c. 322, § 33.1-272; 1991, cc. 666, 713; 1993, c. 793; 2014, c. 805.

Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 33.2-1704

What does Code of Virginia § 33.2-1704 cover?

Section 33.2-1704 ("Condemnation of projects and property") 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 § 33.2-1704?

A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 33.2-1704" (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 § 33.2-1704 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.