Learn About The Law
Get help with your legal needs
FindLaw’s Learn About the Law features thousands of informational articles to help you understand your options. And if you’re ready to hire an attorney, find one in your area who can help.
Current as of January 01, 2026 | Updated by Findlaw Staff
It shall be unlawful for any person to offer for sale, sell or distribute for direct consumption oysters or clams as Virginia oysters or clams unless such oysters and clams have been in the waters of the Commonwealth or the Potomac River for a period of at least six months.
Any oysters or clams imported into Virginia, either shucked or unshucked, when sold or distributed, shall not be designated or labeled in any manner indicating they came from Virginia waters or that they are Virginia oysters or clams.
The name, address and Department of Health certificate number on the package or container of the packer or distributor shall not be considered illegal designation or labeling.
A violation of this section is a Class 3 misdemeanor.
Cite this article: FindLaw.com - Virginia Code Title 28.2. Fisheries and Habitat of the Tidal Waters § 28.2-532. Protection of oysters and clams of Virginia; labeling; penalty - last updated January 01, 2026 | https://codes.findlaw.com/va/title-28-2-fisheries-and-habitat-of-the-tidal-waters/va-code-sect-28-2-532/
FindLaw Codes may not reflect the most recent version of the law in your jurisdiction. Please verify the status of the code you are researching with the state legislature before relying on it for your legal needs.
A free source of state and federal court opinions, state laws, and the United States Code. For more information about the legal concepts addressed by these cases and statutes, visit FindLaw’s Learn About the Law.
Get help with your legal needs
FindLaw’s Learn About the Law features thousands of informational articles to help you understand your options. And if you’re ready to hire an attorney, find one in your area who can help.
Search our directory by legal issue
Enter information in one or both fields (Required)