WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1316

Removal of clutter; cutting of grass; agricultural use exemption; Planning District 19.

2026 Regular Session

HB 1316 modifies property maintenance standards for clutter and grass cutting in Virginia's Planning District 19 while expanding agricultural land exemptions from local ordinances.

Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1316

Legislative bill overview

HB 1316 addresses property maintenance standards regarding clutter removal and grass cutting in Planning District 19 (a Virginia regional planning area), while establishing or modifying exemptions for agricultural land uses. The bill has progressed through initial committee assignments focusing on agriculture and natural resources matters, with recent referral to local government committees.

Why is this important

Property maintenance ordinances directly affect residential quality of life, property values, and local government enforcement costs. Agricultural exemptions are critical because they prevent farming operations from being subject to suburban lawn-care standards, but the balance between protecting agricultural uses and addressing legitimate blight concerns is contentious in developing areas where farms and residential properties increasingly coexist.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural exemption scope: How broadly "agricultural use" is defined could determine whether small hobby farms, horse properties, or conservation lands qualify, or whether exemptions are narrow
  • Planning District 19 specificity: Why this regional planning area receives unique treatment versus statewide consistency, and whether this creates a patchwork of standards
  • Enforcement discretion: Who determines what constitutes excessive "clutter" versus legitimate farm equipment storage, and what appeals process exists for property owners disputing citations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.