Part VII. Miscellaneous Provisions
24VAC30-151-440. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-450. Banners and decorations.
A county, town, religious or civic organization, or other individual or entity shall obtain a single use permit to hang banners or erect holiday decorations, such as lights, across state highways. Banners and decorations shall not remain in place more than 30 calendar days and shall be a minimum of 21 feet above the center of the road. They shall not detract from, interfere with, or conflict with any existing highway signs or signals.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-460. Building movements.
A single use permit shall be obtained for movements on right-of-way for all buildings over 16 feet wide. All requests for building movements require the approval of the district administrator's designee in the district where the move initiates after the applicant provides the required investigative report and route certification documents. All building movements shall be covered by a performance bond that is commensurate with the type of move requested.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-470. Bicycle and road races, parades, and marches.
A single use permit shall be obtained for bicycle and road races, parades, and marches. Approval of such permit may be granted only under conditions that assure reasonable safety for all participants, spectators and other highway users, and will prevent unreasonable interference with traffic flow.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010.
24VAC30-151-480. Chutes, tipples, and other similar structures.
A single use permit shall be obtained for chutes, tipples or other structures to transport coal, gravel, or other material across the right-of-way. The permit surety shall be sufficient to restore the appearance of the right-of-way and to remove the structure should it become dangerous or when it is no longer being used. Advertising signs or the names of owners shall not be placed on such structures located on the right-of-way.
The applicant shall obtain written approval from the local officials prior to permit application for such structures.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010.
24VAC30-151-490. Construction or reconstruction of roads, entrances, bridges, drainage structures, or other transportation facilities.
A permit is required for construction or reconstruction of roads, private or commercial entrances, bridges, drainage structures, or other transportation facilities. Such activities may be permitted based upon evaluation, an engineering analysis provided by the applicant, and approval of the district administrator's designee. Approval by the relevant county board of supervisors may also be necessary.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-500. Crest stage gauges, water level recorders.
Permits may be issued to any governmental agency to install hydrological study equipment within rights-of-way. Maintenance of these facilities is the responsibility of the permittee.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-510. Emergency vehicle access.
A single use permit shall be obtained for the installation of signals along and over streets or highways at a fire station to facilitate the safe and expeditious entry of emergency vehicles. These signals include warning beacons, traffic signals to allow direct access to a roadway and modifications to existing signals. Maintenance of these facilities is the responsibility of the permittee.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010.
24VAC30-151-520. Filming.
A single use permit shall be obtained for any filming activities within the right-of-way that may affect the safety, use, or operation of the highway. Additionally, a single use permit shall be obtained for any movie, television, or other commercial filming within the rights-of-way and shall be coordinated through the Film Office of the Virginia Tourism Corporation.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-530. School signs.
A single use permit shall be obtained for the installation and maintenance of time actuated flashing school speed limit signs within highway rights-of-way, subject to approval of the district administrator's designee.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010.
24VAC30-151-540. Grading on right-of-way.
Grading that does not adversely affect the maintenance, safety, and operations of vehicles on nonlimited access rights-of-way may be permitted. Permits shall not be granted for grading slopes and banks or otherwise changing their appearance within limited access rights-of-way, except in unusual circumstances where such work would improve the safety or operation of the highways.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010.
24VAC30-151-550. Roadside memorials.
A. Roadside memorials shall not be placed on right-of-way without first obtaining a permit. A roadside memorial permit requires compliance with the following requirements as well as all other applicable permit regulations:
1. Applications for a memorial shall be submitted to the district administrator's designee. The district administrator's designee will review applications for compliance with applicable requirements and has the authority to issue or deny a permit or request amendment of the application.
2. If construction or major maintenance work is scheduled in the vicinity of the proposed memorial's location, the district administrator's designee may identify an acceptable location for the memorial beyond the limits of work, or the applicant may agree to postpone installation.
3. The applicant may request review of the district administrator's designee's decision regarding amendment or denial of an application by the district administrator.
4. Criteria used to review applications shall include the following factors:
a. Potential hazard of the proposed memorial to travelers, the bereaved, VDOT personnel, or others;
b. The effect on the proposed site's land use or aesthetics and installation or maintenance concerns; and
c. Circumstances surrounding the accident or incident.
5. Approval of a memorial does not give the applicant, family, or friends of the victim permission to park, stand, or loiter at the memorial site.
B. The following requirements and limitations apply to applications for roadside memorial permits:
1. Any human fatality that occurs on the state highway system is eligible for a memorial. Deaths of animals or pets are not eligible.
2. The applicant must provide a copy of the accident report or other form of information to the district administrator's designee so that the victim's name, date of fatality, and location of the accident can be verified. This information may be obtained by contacting the local or state police. The district administrator's designee may also require that the applicant supply a copy of the death certificate.
3. Only family members of the victim may apply for a memorial.
4. The applicant will confirm on the application that approval has been obtained from the immediate family of the victim and any adjacent property owners to locate the memorial in the designated location. If any member of the immediate family objects in writing to the memorial, the application will be denied or the memorial will be removed if it has already been installed.
5. If the adjacent property owner objects in writing, the memorial will be relocated and the applicant will be notified.
6. Memorials will remain in place for two years from the date of installation, at which time the permit shall expire. The Commissioner of Highways may, upon receipt of a written request, grant an extension of the permit. An extension may be granted for a period of one year, and requests for further extensions must be submitted for each subsequent year. The applicant or the family of the victim may request that the memorial be removed less than two years after installation.
7. The applicant shall be responsible for the fabrication of the memorial. VDOT will install, maintain, and remove the memorial, but the cost of these activities shall be paid by the applicant to VDOT.
C. Roadside memorial physical requirements.
1. The memorial shall be designed in accordance with Chapter 12 (§ 33.2-1200 et seq.) of Title 33.2 and § 46.2-831 of the Code of Virginia and the Rules and Regulations Controlling Outdoor Advertising and Directional and Other Signs and Notices (24VAC30-120) and Vegetation Control Regulations on State Rights-Of-Way ( 24VAC30-200). The use of symbols, photographs, drawings, logos, advertising, or similar forms of medium is prohibited on or near the memorial.
2. Only one memorial per fatality shall be allowed.
3. VDOT reserves the right to install a group memorial in lieu of individual memorials to commemorate a major incident where multiple deaths have occurred.
4. The memorial shall be located as close as possible to the crash site, but location of the memorial may vary depending on the site and safety conditions.
a. Memorials shall be installed outside of the mowing limits and ditch line and as close to the right-of-way line as reasonably possible.
b. Memorials shall be located in such a manner as to avoid distractions to motorists and safety hazards to the traveling public.
c. Memorials shall not be installed in the median of any highway, on a bridge, or within 500 feet of any bridge approach.
d. Memorials shall not be permitted in a construction or maintenance work zone. VDOT reserves the right to temporarily remove or relocate a memorial at any time for highway maintenance or construction operations or activities.
e. If the right-of-way is insufficient for a memorial to be installed at the crash site, the district administrator's designee may locate a more suitable location close to the incident vicinity to locate the memorial where sufficient right-of-way exists.
D. After the two-year term or any extension of the term approved in accordance with this section, the memorial shall be removed by VDOT personnel. The memorial nameplate will be returned to the applicant or the designated family member, if specified on the application. If the applicant does not wish to retain the nameplate, the nameplate will be reused, recycled, or disposed at VDOT's discretion.
Statutory Authority
§§ 33.2-210 and 33.2-216 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 28, Issue 4, eff. November 23, 2011; Volume 31, Issue 7, eff. December 31, 2014; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-560. Mailboxes and newspaper boxes.
Mailboxes and newspaper boxes may be placed within VDOT right-of-way without a permit; however, placement shall not interfere with safety, maintenance, or use of the roadway. Lightweight newspaper boxes may be mounted on the side of the support structure. Breakaway structures will be acceptable as a mailbox post. Breakaway structures are defined as a single four-inch by four-inch square or four-inch diameter wooden post or a standard strength, metal pipe post with no greater than a two-inch diameter.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-570. Miscellaneous signs and devices.
A. In cooperation with local, state, and federal organizations, certain public service signs may be placed within the right-of-way without a permit. The district administrator's designee shall determine the appropriate location for the following signs.
1. Forestry. Authorized representatives of the U.S. Forest Service and Virginia Department of Forestry may place forest fire warning signs within the right-of-way without a permit. A limited number of fire warning signs will be placed near forest reservations or wooded areas. The Department of Forestry may utilize other types of signs to more forcibly impress the public with the need for protecting forest areas. Sign placement shall be accomplished under an agreement, subject to the following conditions:
a. No highway sign should carry more than one message and no other signs shall appear on posts bearing highway signs;
b. No signs shall be erected that would restrict sight distance or are close to highway warning and directional signs;
c. Signs regarding forest fires should be placed by fire wardens; and
d. Signs shall be maintained by the Department of Forestry.
In all cases, the forest warden is to coordinate the desired location of these signs with the district administrator's designee prior to placement.
2. Garden week. These signs are erected and removed by employees of VDOT. The appropriate committee of the Garden Club of Virginia will designate the gardens and places that are to be officially opened during Garden Week and notify the district administrator's designee accordingly, who will ensure the appropriate placement of these signs.
3. Roadside acknowledgment. These signs acknowledge the name and logo of businesses, organizations, communities, or individuals participating in the landscape of a segment of the right-of-way in accordance with the Comprehensive Roadside Management Program (24VAC30-121). As the landscaping is accomplished under a land use permit, the signs are considered to be covered by that permit.
4. Bird sanctuary. Upon receipt of a request from a town or city, VDOT will fabricate and erect these signs, at the expense of the municipality, at the corporate limits of the town or city under the municipality name sign. In order for a municipality to be designated as a bird sanctuary, the municipality must pass a resolution to that effect. The municipality shall be responsible for maintenance of bird sanctuary signs.
5. Historical highway markers. Information regarding the historical highway marker program may be obtained from the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Applications for historical highway markers shall be obtained from and submitted to the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.
B. The district administrator's designee may authorize the placement of the following miscellaneous signs within right-of-way under a single use permit:
1. Locality identification or "welcome to" signs. Requests for locality identification or "welcome to" signs to be located within nonlimited access right-of-way. These signs shall not be placed on limited access right-of-way. Locality identification or "welcome to" signs that interfere with roadway safety, traffic capacity, or maintenance shall not be permitted. A permit application requesting placement of a locality identification or "welcome to" sign within the right-of-way must be accompanied by a formal resolution from the local governing body or a letter from the chief executive officer of the local government. Such signs shall meet all VDOT breakaway requirements specified in the terms of the permit or be erected outside of the clear zone. No advertising shall be placed on these signs. The local governing body shall be responsible for maintenance of the locality's identification or "welcome to" signs in perpetuity.
2. VDOT may authorize any individual, group, local government, and other entities to place storm drain pollution prevention markers or stenciling on VDOT storm drain inlet structures accessible by pedestrian facilities. A local government, through coordination with the district administrator's designee, may apply for a countywide permit to enable this type of activity on behalf of clubs, citizens groups, and other entities. The permit application must include, at a minimum, a graphic sample of the proposed markers, structure locations and a comprehensive list of streets if a wide distribution of marker placement is anticipated. Stencil measurements shall not exceed 15 inches in length by 20 inches in width.
3. VDOT may authorize a local government to install "no loitering" signs within the right-of-way. The district administrator's designee shall determine the appropriate location for these signs.
C. The Commissioner of Highways or the commissioner's designee may authorize the placement of various automated traffic enforcement devices for the Commonwealth or its political subdivisions as may be allowed by law.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-580. Ornamental posts, walls, residential and commercial development identification signs, or other nontransportation-related elements.
Ornamental posts, walls, residential and commercial development identification signs, or other nontransportation elements, such as pedestrian-oriented trash cans, or any combination of these that do not interfere with roadway safety, traffic capacity, or maintenance may be authorized under a single use permit. These nontransportation related elements shall not be placed on limited access rights-of-way. Permit applications requesting placement of ornamental posts, walls, residential and commercial development identification signs, other nontransportation related elements, or any combination of these within the right-of-way must be accompanied by documentation indicating the issuance of all required approvals and permissions from the local jurisdictional authority. Such ornamental posts, walls, residential and commercial development identification signs, and other nontransportation related elements shall meet all VDOT breakaway requirements specified in the terms of the permit or be erected outside of the clear zone. No advertising shall be placed on these nontransportation related elements permitted within the right-of-way. The permittee shall be responsible for maintenance of these nontransportation related elements in perpetuity.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-590. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 7, eff. December 31, 2014; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-600. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
The installation of sidewalks, steps, curb ramps, shared use paths, pedestrian underpasses, and overpasses within right-of-way may be authorized under a single use permit. VDOT, at its discretion, shall maintain those facilities that are open for general public use, built in the right-of-way to VDOT standards, and accepted by VDOT for maintenance. The maintenance of sidewalks, steps, curb ramps, shared use paths, pedestrian underpasses, and overpasses not meeting these requirements shall be subject to permit requirements, and the permittee shall be responsible for maintenance of these facilities.
The installation of pedestrian or bicycle facilities within limited access right-of-way shall be considered a change in limited access control and requires approval of the Commonwealth Transportation Board prior to permit issuance (see Change of Limited Access Control, 24VAC30-401). The installation of pedestrian or bicycle facilities parallel to and within the right-of-way of nonlimited access highways crossing limited access highways by way of an existing bridge or underpass shall not be considered a change in limited access but shall require the approval of the Chief Engineer prior to issuance of a permit for such activity.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 28, Issue 4, eff. November 23, 2011; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-610. Permits for certain overdimensional haulers and loaders.
Permits for unladen, oversize and overweight, rubber-tired self-propelled haulers and loaders shall be issued in accordance with § 46.2-1149 of the Code of Virginia and shall be obtained from the district administrator's designee.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010.
24VAC30-151-620. Roadside management, landscaping.
Placement and maintenance of plant materials by individuals or organizations may be allowed under a single use permit in accordance with VDOT specifications as set forth in the terms of the permit, § 33.2-265 of the Code of Virginia, and the Comprehensive Roadside Management Program (24VAC30-121). The permittee shall maintain any altered roadside area for the duration of the permit. All related permit applications shall be accompanied by a corresponding maintenance agreement. If permit conditions, including the maintenance agreement, are violated at any time, VDOT may revoke the permit and restore the roadside area to its original condition or otherwise establish turf in accordance with VDOT standards and specifications. The costs of reclamation and restoration activities shall be paid by the permittee. Tree pruning or removal may be allowed on right-of way for maintenance purposes for utility facilities or as part of a roadside beautification project sponsored by the local government or to daylight an outdoor advertising structure or business in accordance with Vegetation Control Regulations on State Rights-of-Way (24VAC30-200).
All pesticide applicators shall meet the applicable requirements established by the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services in Regulations Governing Pesticide Product Registration, Handling, Storage, and Disposal under Authority of the Virginia Pesticide Control Act (2VAC5-670). Pesticide activities shall comply with all applicable federal and state regulations.
Permits for volunteer mowing or litter pickup shall be issued only under conditions that ensure reasonable safety for all participants and other highway users and that will not cause unreasonable interference with normal traffic flow. All volunteer mowing operations on highway segments with speed limits greater than 45 mph shall be performed only by licensed, bonded, and insured persons. A copy of the permit and all safety requirements included in the permit must be maintained at the mowing site. No lane closures will be allowed for mowing, and the mower operator and mowing equipment shall not encroach into the travel way while in operation. Participants of a one-time litter pickup shall be adults or shall be supervised by an adult. The ratio shall be one adult per no more than six children. No participants 10 years of age or younger will be allowed to participate. All participants must view an Adopt-a-Highway safety video prior to participating.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 7, eff. December 31, 2014; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-630. Transit and school bus shelters.
School bus shelters, public transit shelters, or share ride stations may be authorized under the auspices of a single use permit. Approval of the shelter or station design must be obtained from the Virginia Department of General Services prior to the issuance of a permit. Shelters shall be located in accordance with all clear zone requirements specified in the terms of the permit.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.
24VAC30-151-640. Trash containers and recycling sites.
The placement of trash receptacles on nonlimited access highways may be authorized under the auspices of a single use permit. Trash receptacles shall be located as close to the right-of-way line as possible. The site shall have a clearly defined entrance and exit. Appropriate screening and landscaping may be required.
The site shall be maintained in a neat condition and sprayed as needed to minimize flies, odors, etc. VDOT will remove improperly maintained receptacles from the right-of-way at the owner's expense.
The permittee shall secure written permission from the adjacent property owners prior to locating the receptacle within the state right-of-way.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010.
24VAC30-151-650. Test holes.
Test holes may be excavated in the roadway or right-of-way for the purpose of geological surveys or studies, monitoring wells and for locating existing utilities within the right-of-way. A single use permit shall be obtained for test holes. All test holes shall be kept to the smallest size and number possible. A surety will be required to sufficiently restore the appearance of the right-of-way or to repair the pavement of the roadway. The permittee shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the district administrator's designee that the location of the site will not compromise the safety, use or maintenance of the roadway.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010.
24VAC30-151-660. Special requests and other installations.
Any special requests may be permitted upon review and approval by the Commissioner of Highways.
Statutory Authority
§ 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 28, Issue 4, eff. November 23, 2011.
24VAC30-151-670. Prohibited use of right-of-way.
The following uses of the right-of-way are prohibited and no permit shall be issued for the following uses of the right-of-way:
1. Signs. Signs not otherwise allowed in this chapter or by law, including temporary signs, banners, inflatable and air-blown signs, and decorations, shall not be placed, located, or displayed on the right-of-way or overhang the right-of-way.
2. Vendors on right-of-way. Vendor activities and the operation of business within the rights-of-way, except that a permit may be issued for the following activities:
a. As may be allowed for waysides and rest areas under the Rules and Regulations for the Administration of Waysides and Rest Areas (24VAC30-50) and the Rules and Regulations for the Administration of Parking Lots and Environs (24VAC30-100).
b. Commercial vendors of newspapers and written materials may place or operate services within rights-of-way, provided services neither impede traffic nor impact the safety of the traveling public. Newspaper vending machine size, placement, and location shall be as directed by the district administrator's designee.
c. Localities may administer mobile food vending on nonlimited access highways, where the vending operations are regulated by local ordinances, operated consistent with such ordinances, and in accordance with the Commonwealth Transportation Board's regulations and policies.
d. Bike share or other micromobility system operators for placement of stations.
e. Electric vehicle charging stations as allowed by law.
3. Dwellings. No private dwellings, garages, or similar structures shall be placed or constructed within the right-of-way, except support buildings as may be allowed under 24VAC30-151-350 in connection with wireless communication facilities.
Statutory Authority
§§ 33.2-118 and 33.2-210 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 12, eff. March 17, 2010; amended, Virginia Register Volume 32, Issue 2, eff. October 21, 2015; Volume 34, Issue 25, eff. September 5, 2018; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. November 19, 2025.