No, squatting in Virginia is illegal under state and local property laws. Virginia Code § 18.2-119 criminalizes trespassing and unauthorized occupation of property, while local ordinances in jurisdictions like Fairfax County and Richmond impose additional penalties for squatters. Landlords must follow strict eviction procedures under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, and law enforcement agencies, including the Virginia State Police, enforce these laws rigorously. Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize faster adjudication of unlawful detainer cases to curb squatting trends.
Key Regulations for Squatting in Virginia
- Virginia Code § 18.2-119: Classifies squatting as criminal trespass, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $2,500. The statute explicitly targets unauthorized occupation of residential or commercial properties, regardless of intent.
- Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA): Mandates landlords to serve a 14-day notice to quit for non-payment or lease violations before filing an unlawful detainer suit. Failure to comply voids eviction attempts, complicating squatter removal.
- Local Ordinances: Cities like Alexandria and Norfolk require landlords to register vacant properties with code enforcement, enabling quicker intervention against squatters. Violations may trigger municipal fines or property liens under local housing codes.