Va. Code Ann. tit. 4.1, ch. 3

in effect

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-300 Illegal manufacture and bottling; penalty

A. Except as otherwise provided in §§ 4.1-200 and 4.1-201 , no person shall manufacture alcoholic beverages in the Commonwealth without being licensed under this subtitle to manufacture such alcoholic beverages. Nor shall any person, other than a brewery licensee or bottler's licensee, bottle beer for sale. B. The presence of mash at an unlicensed distillery shall constitute manufacturing within the meaning of this section. C. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 6 felony. Code 1950, § 4-57; 1954, c. 484; 1974, c. 460; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-301 Conspiracy to violate § 4.1-300; penalty

If two or more persons conspire together to do any act which is in violation of § 4.1-300 , and one or more of these persons does any act to effect the object of the conspiracy, each of the parties to such conspiracy shall be guilty of a Class 6 felony. 1956, c. 70, § 4-57.1; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-302 Illegal sale of alcoholic beverages in general; penalty

If any person who is not licensed sells any alcoholic beverages except as permitted by this subtitle, he shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. In the event of a second or subsequent conviction under this section, a jail sentence of no less than thirty days shall be imposed and in no case be suspended. Code 1950, § 4-58; 1952, c. 491; 1984, c. 603; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-302.1 Use of alcohol vaporizing devices prohibited; penalty

A. No person shall purchase, offer for sale or use, sell or use any vaporized form of an alcoholic beverage produced by an alcohol vaporizing device. B. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. 2006, c. 714 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-302.2 Sale, purchase, use of powdered or crystalline alcohol prohibited; penalty

A. No person shall purchase or possess, offer for sale or use, sell, or use any powdered or crystalline alcohol product. B. As used in this section, "powdered or crystalline alcohol" means a product that is manufactured into a powdered or crystalline form and that contains any amount of alcohol. C. A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor. 2015, cc. 25 , 735 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-303 Purchase of alcoholic beverages from person not authorized to sell; penalty

If any person buys alcoholic beverages from any person other than the Board, a government store or a person authorized under this subtitle to sell alcoholic beverages, he shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-71; 1968, c. 7; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-304 Persons to whom alcoholic beverages may not be sold; proof of legal age; penalty

A. No person shall, except pursuant to subdivisions 1 through 5 of § 4.1-200 , sell any alcoholic beverages to any individual when at the time of such sale he knows or has reason to believe that the individual to whom the sale is made is (i) less than 21 years of age, (ii) interdicted, or (iii) intoxicated. Any person convicted of a violation of this subsection is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. B. Any person who sells, except pursuant to subdivisions 1 through 5 of § 4.1-200 , any alcoholic beverage to an individual who is less than 21 years of age and at the time of the sale does not require the individual to present bona fide evidence of legal age indicating that the individual is 21 years of age or older is guilty of a violation of this subsection. Bona fide evidence of legal age is limited to any evidence that is or reasonably appears to be an unexpired driver's license issued by any state of the United States or the District of Columbia, military identification card, United States passport or foreign government visa, unexpired special identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or any other valid government-issued identification card bearing the individual's photograph, signature, height, weight, and date of birth, or which bears a photograph that reasonably appears to match the appearance of the purchaser. A student identification card shall not constitute bona fide evidence of legal age for purposes of this subsection. Any person convicted of a violation of this subsection is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor. Notwithstanding the provisions of § 4.1-202 , the Board shall not take administrative action against a licensee for the conduct of his employee who violates this subsection. C. No person shall be convicted of both subsections A and B for the same sale. Code 1950, § 4-62; 1970, c. 686; 1974, c. 460; 1979, c. 537; 1981, c. 24; 1982, c. 66; 1983, c. 608; 1985, c. 559; 1990, c. 771; 1993, c. 866; 2013, c. 562 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-305 Purchasing or possessing alcoholic beverages unlawful in certain cases; venue; exceptions; penalty; forfeiture; deferred proceedings; treatment and education programs and services

A. No person to whom an alcoholic beverage may not lawfully be sold under § 4.1-304 shall consume, purchase or possess, or attempt to consume, purchase or possess, any alcoholic beverage, except (i) pursuant to subdivisions 1 through 7 of § 4.1-200 ; (ii) where possession of the alcoholic beverages by a person less than 21 years of age is due to such person's making a delivery of alcoholic beverages in pursuance of his employment or an order of his parent; or (iii) by any state, federal, or local law-enforcement officer or his agent when possession of an alcoholic beverage is necessary in the performance of his duties. Such person may be prosecuted either in the county or city in which the alcohol was possessed or consumed, or in the county or city in which the person exhibits evidence of physical indicia of consumption of alcohol. It shall be an affirmative defense to a charge of a violation of this subsection if the defendant shows that such consumption or possession was pursuant to subdivision 7 of § 4.1-200 . B. No person under the age of 21 years shall use or attempt to use any (i) altered, fictitious, facsimile, or simulated license to operate a motor vehicle; (ii) altered, fictitious, facsimile, or simulated document, including but not limited to a birth certificate or student identification card; or (iii) motor vehicle driver's license or other document issued under Chapter 3 (§ 46.2-300 et seq.) of Title 46.2 or the comparable law of another jurisdiction, birth certificate, or student identification card of another person in order to establish a false identification or false age for himself to consume, purchase, or attempt to consume or purchase an alcoholic beverage. C. Any person found guilty of a violation of this section is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor, and upon conviction (i) such person shall be ordered to pay a mandatory minimum fine of $500 or ordered to perform a mandatory minimum of 50 hours of community service as a condition of probation supervision and (ii) the license to operate a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth of any such person age 18 or older shall be suspended for a period of not less than six months and not more than one year; the license to operate a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth of any juvenile shall be handled in accordance with the provisions of § 16.1-278.9 . The court, in its discretion and upon a demonstration of hardship, may authorize an adult convicted of a violation of this section the use of a restricted license to operate a motor vehicle in accordance with the provisions of subsection E of § 18.2-271.1 or when referred to a local community-based probation services agency established pursuant to Article 9 (§ 9.1-173 et seq.) of Chapter 1 of Title 9.1. During the period of license suspension, the court may require an adult who is issued a restricted license under the provisions of this subsection to be (a) monitored by an alcohol safety action program or (b) supervised by a local community-based probation services agency established pursuant to Article 9 (§ 9.1-173 et seq.) of Chapter 1 of Title 9.1, if one has been established for the locality. The alcohol safety action program or local community-based probation services agency shall report to the court any violation of the terms of the restricted license, the required alcohol safety action program monitoring or local community-based probation services and any condition related thereto or any failure to remain alcohol-free during the suspension period. D. Any alcoholic beverage purchased or possessed in violation of this section shall be deemed contraband and forfeited to the Commonwealth in accordance with § 4.1-338 . E. Any retail licensee who in good faith promptly notifies the Board or any state or local law-enforcement agency of a violation or suspected violation of this section shall be accorded immunity from an administrative penalty for a violation of § 4.1-304 . F. When any adult who has not previously been convicted of underaged consumption, purchase or possession of alcoholic beverages in Virginia or any other state or the United States is before the court, the court may, upon entry of a plea of guilty or not guilty, if the facts found by the court would justify a finding of guilt of a violation of subsection A, without entering a judgment of guilt and with the consent of the accused, defer further proceedings and place him on probation subject to appropriate conditions. Such conditions may include the imposition of the license suspension and restricted license provisions in subsection C. However, in all such deferred proceedings, the court shall require the accused to enter a treatment or education program or both, if available, that in the opinion of the court best suits the needs of the accused. If the accused is placed on local community-based probation, the program or services shall be located in any of the judicial districts served by the local community-based probation services agency or in any judicial district ordered by the court when the placement is with an alcohol safety action program. The services shall be provided by (i) a program licensed by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, (ii) certified by the Commission on VASAP, or (iii) by a program or services made available through a community-based probation services agency established pursuant to Article 9 (§ 9.1-173 et seq.) of Chapter 1 of Title 9.1, if one has been established for the locality. When an offender is ordered to a local community-based probation services rather than the alcohol safety action program, the local community-based probation services agency shall be responsible for providing for services or referring the offender to education or treatment services as a condition of probation. Upon violation of a condition, the court may enter an adjudication of guilt and proceed as otherwise provided. Upon fulfillment of the conditions, the court shall discharge the person and dismiss the proceedings against him without an adjudication of guilt. A discharge and dismissal hereunder shall be treated as a conviction for the purpose of applying this section in any subsequent proceedings. When any juvenile is found to have committed a violation of subsection A, the disposition of the case shall be handled according to the provisions of Article 9 (§ 16.1-278 et seq.) of Chapter 11 of Title 16.1. Code 1950, § 4-62; 1970, c. 686; 1974, c. 460; 1979, c. 537; 1981, c. 24; 1982, c. 66; 1983, c. 608; 1985, c. 559; 1990, c. 771; 1993, c. 866; 1995, c. 374 ; 1996, cc. 626 , 730 ; 2000, c. 325 ; 2002, c. 338 ; 2003, cc. 845 , 849 ; 2004, cc. 322 , 461 ; 2005, c. 895 ; 2006, c. 207 ; 2007, c. 133 ; 2009, cc. 248 , 726 , 813 , 840 ; 2012, cc. 250 , 260 ; 2020, cc. 1227 , 1246 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-306 Purchasing alcoholic beverages for one to whom they may not be sold; penalty; forfeiture

A. Any person who purchases alcoholic beverages for another person, and at the time of such purchase knows or has reason to believe that the person for whom the alcoholic beverage was purchased was (i) interdicted, or (ii) intoxicated, is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. A1. Any person who purchases for, or otherwise gives, provides, or assists in the provision of alcoholic beverages to another person, when he knows or has reason to know that such person was less than 21 years of age, except (i) pursuant to subdivisions 1 through 7 of § 4.1-200 ; (ii) where possession of the alcoholic beverages by a person less than 21 years of age is due to such person's making a delivery of alcoholic beverages in pursuance of his employment or an order of his parent; or (iii) by any state, federal, or local law-enforcement officer when possession of an alcoholic beverage is necessary in the performance of his duties, is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. B. In addition to any other penalty authorized by law, any person found guilty of a violation of this section shall have his license to operate a motor vehicle suspended for a period of not more than one year. The court, in its discretion, may authorize any person convicted of a violation of this section the use of a restricted permit to operate a motor vehicle in accordance with the provisions of subsection D of § 16.1-278.9 or subsection E of § 18.2-271.1 . C. Any alcoholic beverages purchased in violation of this section shall be deemed contraband and forfeited to the Commonwealth in accordance with § 4.1-338 . Code 1950, § 4-73; 1970, c. 686; 1993, c. 866; 2005, cc. 895 , 898 ; 2006, c. 87 ; 2011, c. 31 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-307 Persons by whom alcoholic beverages may not be sold or served for on-premises consumption; penalty

No person shall permit anyone employed by him under the age of (i) eighteen years to sell, serve or dispense in any manner alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption, except pursuant to subdivisions 1 through 5 of § 4.1-200 or (ii) twenty-one years to prepare or mix alcoholic beverages in the capacity of bartender. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-63; 1974, c. 460; 1982, c. 66; 1983, c. 608; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-308 Drinking alcoholic beverages, or offering to another, in public place; penalty; exceptions

A. If any person takes a drink of alcoholic beverages or offers a drink thereof to another, whether accepted or not, at or in any public place, he is guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor. B. This section shall not prevent any person from drinking alcoholic beverages or offering a drink thereof to another in any rooms or areas approved by the Board in a licensed establishment, provided such establishment or the person who operates the same is licensed to sell alcoholic beverages at retail for on-premises consumption and the alcoholic beverages drunk or offered were purchased therein. C. This section shall not prevent any person from drinking alcoholic beverages or offering a drink thereof to another in any room or area approved by the Board at an event for which a banquet license, mixed beverage special events license, or designated outdoor refreshment area license has been granted. Nor shall this section prevent, upon authorization of the licensee, any person from drinking his own lawfully acquired alcoholic beverages or offering a drink thereof to another in approved areas and locations at events for which a coliseum or stadium license has been granted. D. This section shall not prevent any person from drinking alcoholic beverages or offering a drink thereof to another on a chartered boat being used for the transportation of passengers for compensation which is not licensed by the Board and which does not sell alcoholic beverages. E. This section shall not prevent any person from drinking alcoholic beverages or offering a drink thereof to another in any areas approved by the Board in a licensed commercial lifestyle center. F. This section shall not prevent any person from drinking alcoholic beverages or offering a drink thereof to another in any area upon the premises of a campground located on private property at which a majority of the campers use travel or tent trailers, pickup campers, or motor homes or similar recreational vehicles. Code 1950, § 4-78; 1956, c. 23; 1972, c. 143; 1977, c. 439; 1979, c. 622; 1986, c. 113; 1988, c. 893; 1989, c. 42; 1990, c. 932; 1993, c. 866; 2017, cc. 157 , 492 ; 2019, c. 622 ; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, cc. 390 , 391 ; 2024, c. 492 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-309 Drinking or possessing alcoholic beverages in or on public school grounds; penalty

A. No person shall possess or drink any alcoholic beverage in or upon the grounds of any public elementary or secondary school during school hours or school or student activities. B. In addition, no person shall drink and no organization shall serve any alcoholic beverage in or upon the grounds of any public elementary or secondary school after school hours or school or student activities, except for religious congregations using wine for sacramental purposes only. C. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor. D. This section shall not prohibit any person from possessing or drinking alcoholic beverages or any organization from serving alcoholic beverages in areas approved by the Board at a performing arts facility, provided the organization operating the performing arts facility or its lessee has a license granted by the Board. 1954, c. 651, § 4-78.1; 1982, c. 288; 1991, c. 710; 1993, c. 866; 1994, c. 844 ; 1997, cc. 784 , 837 ; 2007, c. 813 ; 2024, cc. 111 , 255 , 619 , 622 , 627 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-309.1 Possessing or consuming alcoholic beverage while operating a school bus; penalty

Any person who possesses or consumes an alcoholic beverage while operating a school bus and transporting children is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. For purposes of this section, "school bus" shall have the same meaning as provided in § 46.2-100 . 2010, c. 169 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-310 Repealed

Repealed by Acts 2022, c. 201 , cl. 2.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-310.1 Delivery of wine or beer to retail licensee

Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle or in Board regulation, no wine or beer may be shipped or delivered to a retail licensee for resale unless such wine or beer has first been (i) delivered to the licensed premises of a wine or beer wholesaler and unloaded, (ii) kept on the licensed premises of the wholesaler for not less than four hours prior to reloading on a vehicle, and (iii) recorded in the wholesaler's inventory. Any holder of a restricted wholesale wine license issued pursuant to subdivision 4 of § 4.1-206.2 shall be exempt from the requirement set forth in clause (ii). 2018, cc. 166 , 167 ; 2020, cc. 1113 , 1114 ; 2023, c. 597 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-311 Limitations on transporting lawfully purchased alcoholic beverages; penalty

A. Except as otherwise permitted under subsection F of § 4.1-206.3 or § 4.1-209.1 or 4.1-212.1 , the transportation of alcoholic beverages is prohibited except in accordance with Board regulations and the following provisions: 1. Wine may be (i) if lawfully purchased in the Commonwealth for personal use and not for resale, transported within the Commonwealth in the personal possession of the purchaser; (ii) if lawfully purchased outside the Commonwealth for personal use and not for resale, transported into or within the Commonwealth in the personal possession of the purchaser in an amount not to exceed three gallons; or (iii) transported into the Commonwealth if consigned to a wholesale wine licensee. 2. Beer may be (i) if lawfully purchased in the Commonwealth for personal use and not for resale, transported within the Commonwealth in the personal possession of the purchaser; (ii) if lawfully purchased outside the Commonwealth for personal use and not for resale, transported into or within the Commonwealth in the personal possession of the purchaser in an amount not to exceed three gallons; or (iii) transported into the Commonwealth if consigned to a wholesale beer licensee. 3. Alcoholic beverages other than wine and beer may be (i) if lawfully purchased for personal use and not for resale, transported into or within the Commonwealth in the personal possession of the purchaser in an amount not to exceed three gallons or (ii) transported into the Commonwealth if such alcoholic beverages (a) are consigned to the Board, (b) are being transported to a distillery or winery licensee, or (c) are ordered by the Board and are being transported directly to persons for industrial purposes, persons for the manufacture of articles allowed to be manufactured under § 4.1-200 , or hospitals pursuant to a permit issued by the Board for which the Board may charge a reasonable fee. B. The provisions of this section shall not be construed to prohibit (i) any person from bringing, through U.S. Customs in his accompanying baggage, into the Commonwealth for personal use and not for resale alcoholic beverages in an amount not to exceed three gallons; (ii) the transportation into the Commonwealth of a reasonable quantity of alcoholic beverages for personal use and not for resale in the personal or household effects of a person relocating his place of residence to the Commonwealth; or (iii) the transportation of alcoholic beverages on passenger boats, dining cars, buffet cars, or club cars licensed under this subtitle or by common carriers engaged in interstate or foreign commerce. C. Any person transporting alcoholic beverages in violation of this section is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-72; 1974, c. 460, § 4-72.1; 1975, c. 480; 1978, c. 436; 1993, c. 866; 2022, c. 201 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-312 Limitation on carrying alcoholic beverages in motor vehicle transporting passengers for hire; penalty

The transportation of alcoholic beverages in any motor vehicle which is being used, or is licensed, for the transportation of passengers for hire is prohibited, except when carried in the possession of a passenger who is being transported for compensation at the regular rate and fare charged other passengers. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-74; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-313 Possessing, transporting, etc., alcoholic beverages illegally acquired; penalty

A. No person, other than a common carrier, shall have, possess, keep, carry, ship or transport alcoholic beverages upon which the tax imposed by the laws of the United States has not been paid. B. No person shall possess alcoholic beverages in amounts in excess of the limits provided in § 4.1-311 in containers not bearing evidence that they have been purchased from the Board or a person licensed to sell them, or other evidence that the tax due to the Commonwealth or the markup required by the Board has been paid, unless it can be proved that the alcoholic beverages were lawfully acquired by the possessor. C. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-75; 1954, c. 484; 1966, c. 408; 1974, c. 460; 1975, c. 481; 1976, c. 36; 1984, c. 603; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-314 Keeping, possessing, or storing still or distilling apparatus without a permit; penalty

No person shall keep, store, or have in his possession any still or distilling apparatus for the purpose of distilling alcohol without a permit from the Board. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-77; 1993, c. 866; 2020, c. 386 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-315 Possession without license to sell alcoholic beverages upon premises of restaurant; exceptions; penalty

A. No alcoholic beverages shall be kept or allowed to be kept upon any premises or upon the person of any proprietor or person employed upon the premises of a restaurant or other place where food or refreshments of any kind are furnished for compensation, except such alcoholic beverages as such person owning or operating such place of business is licensed to purchase and to sell at such place of business. B. This section shall not apply to (i) any residence; (ii) alcoholic beverages in the possession of a passenger being transported for compensation as provided in subsection D of § 4.1-308 ; (iii) dining areas in restaurants licensed by the Board while such areas are in use for private meetings or parties limited in attendance to members and guests of a particular group, association or organization; (iv) licensed restaurants in office buildings, industrial or similar facilities while such restaurant is closed to the public and is in use for private meetings or parties limited in attendance to employees and nonpaying guests of the owner or a lessee of all or part of such building or facility; or (v) any dining areas or private rooms of residents in an assisted living facility as defined in § 63.2-100 and licensed in accordance with Article 1 (§ 63.2-1800 et seq.) of Chapter 18 of Title 63.2. C. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, p. 876, § 4-61; 1954, c. 512; 1958, c. 270; 1968, c. 7; 1972, c. 168; 1974, c. 497; 1990, c. 932; 1993, c. 866; 2010, c. 114 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-316 Keeping or drinking alcoholic beverages upon premises of club; penalty

No person operating a club for profit or otherwise, either public or private, shall (i) keep or allow to be kept any alcoholic beverages, either by himself or any other person, upon the premises or (ii) permit the drinking of any alcoholic beverages upon the premises, unless he is licensed to sell alcoholic beverages. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-61.1; 1954, c. 147; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-317 Maintaining common nuisances; penalties

A. All houses, boathouses, buildings, club or fraternity or lodge rooms, boats, cars and places of every description where alcoholic beverages are manufactured, stored, sold, dispensed, given away or used contrary to law, by any scheme or device whatever, shall be deemed common nuisances. No person shall maintain, aid, abet or knowingly associate with others in maintaining a common nuisance. Any person convicted of a violation of this subsection shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. B. In addition, after due notice and opportunity to be heard on the part of any owner or lessor not involved in the original offense, by a proceeding analogous to that provided in §§ 4.1-339 through 4.1-348 and upon proof of guilty knowledge, judgment may be given that such house, building, boathouse, car or other place, or any room or part thereof, be closed. The court may, upon the owner or lessor giving bond in the penalty of not less than $500 and with security to be approved by the court, conditioned that the premises shall not be used for unlawful purposes, or in violation of the provisions of this chapter for a period of five years, turn the same over to its owner or lessor; or proceeding may be had in equity as provided in § 4.1-335 . C. In a proceeding under this section, judgment shall not be entered against the owner, lessor, or lienholder of the property unless it is proved he (i) knew of the unlawful use of the property and (ii) had the right, because of such unlawful use, to enter and repossess the property. Code 1950, p. 877, § 4-81; 1954, c. 484; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-318 Violations by armed person; penalty

No person shall unlawfully manufacture, transport or sell any alcoholic beverages, and at the time of the unlawful manufacturing, transporting, or selling or aiding or assisting in any manner in such act, shall carry on or about his person, or have on or in any vehicle which he may be using to aid him in any such purpose, or have in his possession, actual or constructive, at or within 100 yards of any place where any such alcoholic beverages are being unlawfully manufactured, transported or sold, any dangerous weapon as described in § 18.2-308 . Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 6 felony. Code 1950, § 4-83; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-319 Disobeying subpoena; hindering conduct of hearing; penalty

No person shall (i) fail or refuse to obey any subpoena issued by the Board, any Board member, or agent authorized by the Board to issue such subpoena or (ii) hinder the orderly conduct and decorum of any hearing held and conducted by the Board, any Board member, or agent authorized by the Board to hold and conduct such hearing. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-70; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-320 Illegal advertising; penalty; exception

A. Except in accordance with this subtitle and Board regulations, no person shall advertise in or send any advertising matter into the Commonwealth about or concerning alcoholic beverages other than those which may legally be manufactured or sold without a license. B. Manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers may engage in the display of outdoor alcoholic beverage advertising on lawfully erected signs provided such display is done in accordance with § 4.1-112.2 and Board regulations. C. Except as provided in subsection D, any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. D. For violations of § 4.1-112.2 relating to distance and zoning restrictions on outdoor advertising, the Board shall give the advertiser written notice to take corrective action to either bring the advertisement into compliance with this subtitle and Board regulations or to remove such advertisement. If corrective action is not taken within 30 days, the advertiser shall be guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor. E. Neither this section nor any Board regulation shall prohibit (i) the awarding of watches of a wholesale value of less than $100 by a licensed distillery, winery or brewery, to participants in athletic contests; (ii) the exhibition or display of automobiles, boats, or aircraft regularly and normally used in racing or other competitive events and the sponsorship of an automobile, boat or aircraft racing team by a licensed distillery, winery or brewery and the display on the automobile, boat or aircraft and uniforms of the members of the racing team, the trademark or brand name of an alcoholic beverage manufactured by such distillery, winery or brewery; (iii) the sponsorship of a professional athletic event, including, but not limited to, golf, auto racing or tennis, by a licensed distillery, winery or brewery or the use of any trademark or brand name of any alcoholic beverage in connection with such sponsorship; (iv) the advertisement of beer by the display of such product's name on any airship, which advertising is paid for by the manufacturer of such product; (v) the advertisement of beer or any alcoholic beverage by the display of such product's name on any scale model, reproduction or replica of any motor vehicle, aircraft or watercraft offered for sale; (vi) the placement of billboard advertising within stadia, coliseums, or racetracks that are used primarily for professional or semiprofessional athletic or sporting events; or (vii) the sponsorship of an entertainment or cultural event. Code 1950, § 4-69; 1978, c. 630; 1979, c. 196; 1980, c. 407; 1993, c. 866; 1995, c. 222 ; 2009, c. 322 ; 2011, c. 728 ; 2012, cc. 760 , 818 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-321 Delivery of alcoholic beverages to prisoners in jail prohibited; penalty

No person shall deliver, or cause to be delivered, to any prisoner in any local correctional facility, any alcoholic beverage. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-93; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-322 Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages by interdicted persons; penalty

No person who has been interdicted pursuant to § 4.1-333 or § 4.1-334 shall possess any alcoholic beverages, except those acquired in accordance with subdivisions 1 through 5 of § 4.1-200 , nor be drunk in public in violation of § 18.2-388 . Any interdicted person found to be in violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-52; 1954, c. 484; 1982, c. 66; 1993, c. 866; 1996, c. 717 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-323 Attempts; aiding or abetting; penalty

No person shall attempt to do any of the things prohibited by this subtitle or to aid or abet another in doing, or attempting to do, any of the things prohibited by this subtitle. On an indictment, information or warrant for the violation of this subtitle, the jury or the court may find the defendant guilty of an attempt, or being an accessory, and the punishment shall be the same as if the defendant were solely guilty of such violation. Code 1950, § 4-87; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-324 Illegal sale or keeping of alcoholic beverages by licensees; penalty

A. No licensee or any agent or employee of such licensee shall: 1. Sell any alcoholic beverages of a kind other than that which such license or this subtitle authorizes him to sell; 2. Sell beer to which wine, spirits or alcohol has been added, except that a mixed beverage licensee may combine wine or spirits, or both, with beer pursuant to a patron's order; 3. Sell wine to which spirits or alcohol, or both, have been added, otherwise than as required in the manufacture thereof under Board regulations, except that a mixed beverage licensee may (i) make sangria that contains brandy, triple sec, or other similar spirits and (ii) combine beer or spirits, or both, with wine pursuant to a patron's order; 4. Sell alcoholic beverages of a kind which such license or this subtitle authorizes him to sell, but to any person other than to those to whom such license or this subtitle authorizes him to sell; 5. Sell alcoholic beverages which such license or this subtitle authorizes him to sell, but in any place or in any manner other than such license or this subtitle authorizes him to sell; 6. Sell any alcoholic beverages when forbidden by this subtitle; 7. Keep or allow to be kept, other than in his residence and for his personal use, any alcoholic beverages other than that which he is authorized to sell by such license or by this subtitle; 8. Sell any beer to a retail licensee, except for cash, if the seller holds a brewery, bottler's or wholesale beer license; 9. Sell any beer on draft and fail to display to customers the brand of beer sold or misrepresent the brand of any beer sold; 10. Sell any wine for delivery within the Commonwealth to a retail licensee, except for cash, if the seller holds a wholesale wine or farm winery license; 11. Keep or allow to be kept or sell any vaporized form of an alcoholic beverage produced by an alcohol vaporizing device; 12. Keep any alcoholic beverage other than in the bottle or container in which it was purchased by him except: (i) for a frozen alcoholic beverage; and (ii) in the case of wine, in containers of a type approved by the Board pending automatic dispensing and sale of such wine; or 13. Establish any normal or customary pricing of its alcoholic beverages that is intended as a shift or device to evade any "happy hour" regulations adopted by the Board; however, a licensee may increase the volume of an alcoholic beverage sold to a customer if there is a commensurate increase in the normal or customary price charged for the same alcoholic beverage. B. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. C. Neither this section nor any Board regulation shall prohibit an on-premises restaurant licensee from using alcoholic beverages that the licensee otherwise is authorized to purchase and possess for the purposes of preparing and selling for on-premises consumption food products with a final alcohol content of more than one-half of one percent by volume, as long as such food products are sold to and consumed by persons who are 21 years of age or older. Code 1950, § 4-60; 1970, c. 360; 1974, c. 460; 1984, c. 603; 1993, c. 866; 1998, c. 238 ; 2006, c. 714 ; 2008, cc. 513 , 629 , 875 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-325 Prohibited acts by mixed beverage licensees; penalty

A. In addition to § 4.1-324 , no mixed beverage licensee nor any agent or employee of such licensee shall: 1. Sell or serve any alcoholic beverage other than as authorized by law; 2. Sell any authorized alcoholic beverage to any person or at any place except as authorized by law; 3. Allow at the place described in his license the consumption of alcoholic beverages in violation of this subtitle; 4. Keep at the place described in his license any alcoholic beverage other than that which he is licensed to sell; 5. Misrepresent the brand of any alcoholic beverage sold or offered for sale; 6. Keep any alcoholic beverage other than in the bottle or container in which it was purchased by him except (i) for a frozen alcoholic beverage, which may include alcoholic beverages in a frozen drink dispenser of a type approved by the Board; (ii) in the case of wine, in containers of a type approved by the Board pending automatic dispensing and sale of such wine; and (iii) as otherwise provided by Board regulation. Neither this subdivision nor any Board regulation shall prohibit any mixed beverage licensee from premixing containers of sangria, to which spirits may be added, to be served and sold for consumption on the licensed premises; 7. Refill or partly refill any bottle or container of alcoholic beverage or dilute or otherwise tamper with the contents of any bottle or container of alcoholic beverage, except as provided by Board regulation adopted pursuant to subdivision B 11 of § 4.1-111 ; 8. Sell or serve any brand of alcoholic beverage which is not the same as that ordered by the purchaser without first advising such purchaser of the difference; 9. Remove or obliterate any label, mark, or stamp affixed to any container of alcoholic beverages offered for sale; 10. Deliver or sell the contents of any container if the label, mark, or stamp has been removed or obliterated; 11. Allow any obscene conduct, language, literature, pictures, performance, or materials on the licensed premises; 12. Allow any striptease act on the licensed premises; 13. Allow persons connected with the licensed business to appear nude or partially nude; 14. Consume or allow the consumption by an employee of any alcoholic beverages while on duty and in a position that is involved in the selling or serving of alcoholic beverages to customers. The provisions of this subdivision shall not prohibit any retail licensee or his designated employee from (i) consuming product samples or sample servings of (a) beer or wine provided by a representative of a licensed beer or wine wholesaler or manufacturer or (b) a distilled spirit provided by a permittee of the Board who represents a distiller, if such samples are provided in accordance with Board regulations and the retail licensee or his designated employee does not violate the provisions of subdivision A 1 f of § 4.1-225 or (ii) tasting an alcoholic beverage that has been or will be delivered to a customer for quality control purposes; 15. Deliver to a consumer an original bottle of an alcoholic beverage purchased under such license whether the closure is broken or unbroken except in accordance with § 4.1-206.3 . The provisions of this subdivision shall not apply to the delivery of: a. "Soju." For the purposes of this subdivision, "soju" means a traditional Korean alcoholic beverage distilled from rice, barley or sweet potatoes; b. Spirits, provided (i) the original container is no larger than 375 milliliters, (ii) the alcohol content is no greater than 15 percent by volume, and (iii) the contents of the container are carbonated and perishable; or c. The entire contents of an original container of spirits for on-premises or off-premises consumption provided that the (i) container is 16 ounces or less and (ii) alcohol content is no greater than 15 percent by volume. 16. Be intoxicated while on duty or employ an intoxicated person on the licensed premises; 17. Conceal any sale or consumption of any alcoholic beverages; 18. Fail or refuse to make samples of any alcoholic beverages available to the Board upon request or obstruct special agents of the Board in the discharge of their duties; 19. Store alcoholic beverages purchased under the license in any unauthorized place or remove any such alcoholic beverages from the premises; 20. Knowingly employ in the licensed business any person who has the general reputation as a prostitute, panderer, habitual law violator, person of ill repute, user or peddler of narcotics, or person who drinks to excess or engages in illegal gambling; 21. Keep on the licensed premises, except for the premises of a mixed beverage casino licensee, a slot machine or any prohibited gambling or gaming device, machine, or apparatus; 22. Make any gift of an alcoholic beverage, other than as a gift made (i) to a personal friend, as a matter of normal social intercourse, so long as the gift is in no way a shift or device to evade the restriction set forth in this subdivision; (ii) to a person responsible for the planning, preparation or conduct on any conference, convention, trade show or event held or to be held on the premises of the licensee, when such gift is made in the course of usual and customary business entertainment and is in no way a shift or device to evade the restriction set forth in this subdivision; (iii) pursuant to subsection C of § 4.1-209 ; (iv) pursuant to subdivision A 10 of § 4.1-201 ; (v) by a mixed beverage casino licensee to a patron of such licensee in accordance with the provisions of subdivision A 14 of § 4.1-206.3 ; or (vi) pursuant to any Board regulation. Any gift permitted by this subdivision shall be subject to the taxes imposed by this subtitle on sales of alcoholic beverages. The licensee shall keep complete and accurate records of gifts given in accordance with this subdivision; or 23. Establish any normal or customary pricing of its alcoholic beverages that is intended as a shift or device to evade any "happy hour" regulations adopted by the Board; however, a licensee may increase the volume of an alcoholic beverage sold to a customer if there is a commensurate increase in the normal or customary price charged for the same alcoholic beverage. B. Any person convicted of a violation of this section is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. C. The provisions of subdivisions A 12 and A 13 shall not apply to persons operating theaters, concert halls, art centers, museums, or similar establishments that are devoted primarily to the arts or theatrical performances, when the performances that are presented are expressing matters of serious literary, artistic, scientific, or political value. 1968, c. 7, § 4-98.10; 1970, c. 120; 1974, c. 548; 1975, c. 483; 1976, cc. 750, 768; 1978, c. 69; 1979, c. 227; 1982, c. 316; 1983, c. 608; 1993, c. 866; 2000, c. 780 ; 2002, c. 105 ; 2003, c. 856 ; 2004, c. 913 ; 2006, cc. 256 , 826 ; 2008, cc. 513 , 629 , 794 , 875 ; 2009, cc. 20 , 509 ; 2010, c. 481 ; 2013, c. 661 ; 2015, cc. 38 , 404 , 604 , 730 ; 2017, c. 154 ; 2020, cc. 1113 , 1114 ; 2022, cc. 589 , 590 ; 2023, cc. 213 , 214 , 774 ; 2024, cc. 111 , 255 , 619 , 622 , 627 ; 2025, c. 435 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-325.1 Falsifying application; penalty

It shall be unlawful for any applicant for a banquet, special events, or mixed beverage special events license pursuant to § 4.1-206.3 to knowingly make a false statement in order to secure a license or to alter, change, borrow, or lend or attempt to use, borrow, or lend a license. Any person violating this provision shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor. 2002, c. 104 ; 2020, cc. 1113 , 1114 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-325.01 Combined licenses for same premises

On and after July 1, 2015, any licensee of the Board that holds both a mixed beverage restaurant license and a mixed beverage caterer's license for the same business premises may, upon request in writing to the Board, be granted a combined mixed beverage restaurant and caterer's license for the same business premises. The Board may require such licensee to surrender the previously granted mixed beverage restaurant license and mixed beverage caterer's license for the same licensed location. No additional license fee shall be assessed for this change. 2015, c. 404 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-325.2 Prohibited acts by employees of wine or beer licensees; penalty

A. In addition to the provisions of § 4.1-324 , no retail wine or beer licensee or his agent or employee shall consume any alcoholic beverages while on duty and in a position that is involved in the selling or serving of alcoholic beverages to customers. The provisions of this subsection shall not prohibit any retail licensee or his designated employee from (i) consuming product samples or sample servings of beer or wine provided by a representative of a licensed beer or wine wholesaler or manufacturer, if such samples are provided in accordance with Board regulations and the retail licensee or his designated employee does not violate the provisions of subdivision A 1 f of § 4.1-225 or (ii) tasting an alcoholic beverage that has been or will be delivered to a customer for quality control purposes. B. For the purposes of subsection A, a wine or beer wholesaler or farm winery licensee or its employees that participate in a wine or beer tasting sponsored by a retail wine or beer licensee shall not be deemed to be agents of the retail wine or beer licensee. C. No retail wine or beer licensee, or his agent or employee shall make any gift of an alcoholic beverage, other than as a gift made (i) to a personal friend, as a matter of normal social intercourse, so long as the gift is in no way a shift or device to evade the restriction set forth in this subsection; (ii) to a person responsible for the planning, preparation or conduct on any conference, convention, trade show or event held or to be held on the premises of the licensee, when such gift is made in the course of usual and customary business entertainment and is in no way a shift or device to evade the restriction set forth in this subsection; (iii) pursuant to subsection C of § 4.1-209 ; (iv) pursuant to subdivision A 10 of § 4.1-201 ; or (v) pursuant to any Board regulation. Any gift permitted by this subsection shall be subject to the taxes imposed by this subtitle on sales of alcoholic beverages. The licensee shall keep complete and accurate records of gifts given in accordance with this subsection. D. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be subject to a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed $500. 2002, c. 105 ; 2003, c. 856 ; 2006, cc. 256 , 826 ; 2013, c. 661 ; 2015, cc. 404 , 604 ; 2017, c. 154 ; 2020, cc. 1113 , 1114 ; 2023, cc. 213 , 214 , 774 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-326 Sale of; purchase for resale; wine or beer from a person without a license; penalty

No licensee, other than a common carrier operating in interstate or foreign commerce, licensed to sell wine or beer at retail shall purchase for resale or sell any wine or beer purchased from anyone other than a wholesale wine or wholesale beer licensee. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the holder of a retail license issued pursuant to subdivision A 5 of § 4.1-201 from the purchase or sale of wine or beer from the winery or brewery located on or contiguous to the licensed retail premises. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, §§ 4-64, 4-66; 1984, c. 200; 1988, c. 261; 1993, c. 866; 2015, c. 412 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-327 Prohibiting transfer of wine or beer by licensees; penalty

A. No retail licensee, except a retail on-premises wine and beer licensee, shall transfer any wine or beer from one licensed place of business to another licensed place of business whether such places of business are under the same ownership or not. B. Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. 1954, c. 338, § 4-34.1; 1993, c. 866; 2020, cc. 1113 , 1114 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-328 Prohibited trade practices; penalty

A. No person subject to the jurisdiction of the Board shall violate, attempt to violate, solicit another person to violate or consent to any violation of § 4.1-216 or 4.1-216.1 , or regulations adopted pursuant to subdivision B 3 of § 4.1-111 . B. Any person found by the Board to have committed a violation of this section shall be subject to a civil penalty as provided in § 4.1-227 . 1989, c. 528, § 4-79.1; 1992, c. 349; 1993, c. 866; 2007, c. 494 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-329 Illegal advertising materials; penalty

No person subject to the jurisdiction of the Board shall induce, attempt to induce, or consent to, any manufacturer, as defined in § 4.1-216.1 , or any wholesale licensee selling, renting, lending, buying for or giving to any person any advertising materials or decorations under circumstances prohibited by this subtitle or Board regulations. Any person found by the Board to have violated this section shall be subject to a civil penalty as provided in § 4.1-227 . 1981, c. 574, § 4-69.2; 1993, c. 866; 2007, c. 494 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-330 Solicitation by persons interested in manufacture, etc., of alcoholic beverages; penalty

A. No person having any interest, direct or indirect, in the manufacture, distribution, or sale of spirits or other alcoholic beverages shall, without a permit granted by the Board and upon such conditions as the Board may prescribe, solicit either directly or indirectly (i) a mixed beverage licensee; (ii) any agent, servant, or employee of such licensee; or (iii) any person connected with the licensee in any capacity whatsoever in his licensed business, to sell or offer for sale the particular spirits or other alcoholic beverage in which such person may be so interested. The Board, upon proof of any solicitation in violation of this subsection, may suspend or terminate the sale through government stores or its purchase of the brand of spirits or other alcoholic beverage which was the subject matter of the unlawful solicitation or promotion. In addition, the Board may suspend or terminate the sale through such stores or its purchase of all brands of spirits or other alcoholic beverages manufactured or distributed by either the employer or principal of such solicitor, the broker, or by the owner of the brand of spirits unlawfully solicited or promoted. The Board may impose a civil penalty not to exceed $250,000 in lieu of such suspension or termination of sales through government stores or purchases by the Board or portion thereof, or both. Any person convicted of a violation of this subsection shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. B. No mixed beverage licensee or any agent, servant, or employee of such licensee, or any person connected with the licensee in any capacity whatsoever in his licensed business shall, either directly or indirectly, be a party to, consent to, solicit, or aid or abet another in a violation of subsection A. The Board may suspend or revoke the license granted to such licensee, or may impose a civil penalty not to exceed $25,000 in lieu of such suspension or any portion thereof, or both. Any person convicted of a violation of this subsection shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. 1968, c. 7, § 4-98.16; 1988, c. 786; 1990, c. 442; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-331 Failure to pay tax or to deliver, keep and preserve records and accounts, or to allow examination and inspection; penalty

No licensee shall fail or refuse to (i) pay any tax provided for in § 4.1-234 or § 4.1-236 ; (ii) deliver, keep and preserve such records, invoices and accounts as are required by § 4.1-204 or Board regulation; or (iii) allow such records, invoices and accounts or his place of business to be examined and inspected in accordance with § 4.1-204 . Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Code 1950, § 4-65; 1988, c. 261, § 4-136; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-332 Nonpayment of excise tax on beer, wine coolers, and wine; additional penalties

A. No person shall sell (i) beer or wine coolers to retailers or consumers without paying the excise tax imposed by § 4.1-236 or (ii) wine to retailers or consumers without paying the excise tax imposed by subsection A of § 4.1-234 . No retailer shall purchase, receive, transport, store or sell any beer, wine coolers, or wine on which such retailer has reason to know such tax has not been paid and may not be paid. Any person convicted of a violation of this subsection shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. B. In addition to subsection A, on each manufacturer, bottler, or wholesaler who fails to make any return and pay the full amount of the tax required by § 4.1-236 or subsection A of § 4.1-234 , as applicable, and submit a wine wholesalers tax report or other report required by the Board to be submitted along with such tax payments, there shall be imposed a civil penalty to be added to the tax not to exceed five percent of the proper tax due if the failure is for not more than 30 days, with an additional five percent for each additional 30 days, or fraction thereof, during which the failure continues. Such civil penalty shall not exceed 25 percent in the aggregate. In the case of a false or fraudulent return, where willful intent exists to defraud the Commonwealth of any excise tax due on beer, wine coolers, or wine, a civil penalty of 50 percent of the amount of the proper tax due shall be assessed. All penalties and interest shall be payable to the Board and if not so paid shall be collectible in the same manner as if they were a part of the tax imposed. C. After reasonable notice is given to the manufacturer, bottler, wholesaler, or retailer, he shall have 60 days in which to make any return, pay the full amount of the excise tax, and submit the wine wholesalers tax report or other report required by the Board to be submitted along with such tax payments. If the manufacturer, bottler, wholesaler, or retailer fails to make any return, pay the full amount of the excise tax, or submit any such report within the 60-day period, the Board may suspend or revoke the license of the manufacturer, bottler, wholesaler, or retailer. In the absence of willful intent to defraud the Commonwealth, if the manufacturer, bottler, wholesaler, or retailer makes the return, pays the full amount of the excise tax, and submits any such report, including any civil penalties imposed under this section, within the 60-day period, the violation shall be deemed cured and no further action shall be brought against such licensee on the matter. D. Except for in the case of a false or fraudulent return where willful intent exists to defraud the Commonwealth, and notwithstanding any other provision of law or regulation, including §§ 4.1-225 and 4.1-227 , the penalties provided in this section shall be the sole penalties that may be imposed by the Board for a violation of this section. 1988, c. 261, §§ 4-139, 4-140; 1993, c. 866; 2018, cc. 405 , 406 ; 2026, c. 904 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-333 Interdiction of intoxicated driver

A. When after a hearing upon due notice it appears to the satisfaction of the circuit court of any county or city that any person, residing within such county or city, has been convicted of driving any automobile, truck, motorcycle, engine, or train while intoxicated, the court may enter an order of interdiction prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages to such person until further ordered. The court entering any such order shall file a copy of the order with the Board. B. The court entering any order of interdiction may alter, amend, or cancel such order as it deems proper. A copy of any alteration, amendment, or cancellation shall be filed with the Board. Code 1950, § 4-51; 1956, c. 53; 1982, c. 66; 1993, c. 866; 2020, c. 150 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-334 Interdiction for illegal manufacture, possession, transportation or sale of alcoholic beverages

When any person has been found guilty of the illegal manufacture, possession, transportation, or sale of alcoholic beverages or maintaining a common nuisance as defined in § 4.1-317 , the court may without further notice or additional hearing enter an order of interdiction prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages to such person for one year from the date of the entry of the order, and thereafter if further ordered. Code 1950, § 4-52; 1954, c. 484; 1982, c. 66; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-335 Enjoining nuisances

A. In addition to the penalties imposed by § 4.1-317 , the Board, its special agents, the attorney for the Commonwealth, or any citizen of the county, city, or town where a common nuisance as defined in § 4.1-317 exists may maintain a suit in equity in the name of the Commonwealth to enjoin the common nuisance. B. The courts of equity shall have jurisdiction, and in every case where the bill charges, on the knowledge or belief of the complainant, and is sworn to by two reputable citizens, that alcoholic beverages are manufactured, stored, sold, dispensed, given away, or used in such house, building or other place described in § 4.1-317 contrary to the laws of the Commonwealth, an injunction shall be granted as soon as the bill is presented to the court. The injunction shall enjoin and restrain the owners, tenants, their agents, employees, servants, and any person connected with such house, building or other place, and all persons whomsoever from manufacturing, storing, selling, dispensing, giving away, or using alcoholic beverages on such premises. The injunction shall also restrain all persons from removing any alcoholic beverage then on such premises until the further order of the court. If the court is satisfied that the material allegations of the bill are true, although the premises complained of may not then be unlawfully used, it shall continue the injunction against such place for a period of time as the court deems proper. The injunction may be dissolved if a proper case is shown for dissolution. Code 1950, § 4-82; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-336 Contraband beverages and other articles subject to forfeiture

All stills and distilling apparatus and materials for the manufacture of alcoholic beverages, all alcoholic beverages and materials used in their manufacture, all containers in which alcoholic beverages may be found, which are kept, stored, possessed, or in any manner used in violation of the provisions of this subtitle, and any dangerous weapons as described in § 18.2-308 , which may be used, or which may be found upon the person or in any vehicle which such person is using, to aid such person in the unlawful manufacture, transportation or sale of alcoholic beverages, or found in the possession of such person, or any horse, mule or other beast of burden, any wagon, automobile, truck or vehicle of any nature whatsoever which is found in the immediate vicinity of any place where alcoholic beverages are being unlawfully manufactured and which such animal or vehicle is being used to aid in the unlawful manufacture, shall be deemed contraband and shall be forfeited to the Commonwealth. Proceedings for the confiscation of the above property shall be in accordance with § 4.1-338 for all such property except motor vehicles which proceedings shall be in accordance with Chapter 22.1 (§ 19.2-386.1 et seq.) of Title 19.2. Code 1950, § 4-53; 1954, c. 484; 1993, c. 866; 2012, cc. 283 , 756 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-337 Search warrants

A. If complaint on oath is made that alcoholic beverages are being manufactured, sold, kept, stored, or in any manner held, used or concealed in a particular house, or other place, in violation of law, the judge, magistrate, or other person having authority to issue criminal warrants, to whom such complaint is made, if satisfied that there is a probable cause for such belief, shall issue a warrant to search such house or other place for alcoholic beverages. Such warrants, except as herein otherwise provided, shall be issued, directed and executed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth pertaining to search warrants. B. Warrants issued under this subtitle for the search of any automobile, boat, conveyance or vehicle, whether of like kind or not, or for the search of any article of baggage, whether of like kind or not, for alcoholic beverages, may be executed in any part of the Commonwealth where they are overtaken and shall be made returnable before any judge within whose jurisdiction such automobile, boat, conveyance, vehicle, truck, or article of baggage, or any of them, was transported or attempted to be transported contrary to law. Code 1950, § 4-54; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-338 Confiscation proceedings; disposition of forfeited articles

A. All proceedings for the confiscation of articles, except motor vehicles, declared contraband and forfeited to the Commonwealth under this chapter shall be as provided in this section. B. Production of seized property. -- Whenever any article declared contraband under the provisions of this subtitle and required to be forfeited to the Commonwealth has been seized, with or without a warrant, by any officer charged with the enforcement of this subtitle, he shall produce the contraband article and any person in whose possession it was found. In those cases where no person is found in possession of such articles the return shall so state and a copy of the warrant shall be posted on the door of the buildings or room where the articles were found, or if there is no door, then in any conspicuous place upon the premises. In case of seizure of a still, doubler, worm, worm tub, mash tub, fermenting tub, or other distilling apparatus, for any offense involving their forfeiture, where it is impracticable to remove such distilling apparatus to a place of safe storage from the place where seized, the seizing officer may destroy such apparatus only as necessary to prevent use of all or any part thereof for the purpose of distilling. The destruction shall be in the presence of at least one credible witness, and such witness shall join the officer in a sworn report of the seizure and destruction, to be made to the Board. The report shall set forth the grounds of the claim of forfeiture, the reasons for seizure and destruction, an estimate of the fair cash value of the apparatus destroyed, and the materials remaining after such destruction. The report shall include a statement that, from facts within their own knowledge, the seizing officer and witness have no doubt whatever that the distilling apparatus was set up for use, or had been used in the unlawful distillation of spirits, and that it was impracticable to remove such apparatus to a place of safe storage. In case of seizure of any quantity of mash, or of alcoholic beverages on which the tax imposed by the laws of the United States has not been paid, for any offense involving forfeiture of the same, the seizing officer may destroy them to prevent the use of all or any part thereof for the purpose of unlawful distillation of spirits or any other violation of this subtitle. The destruction shall be in the presence of at least one credible witness, and such witness shall join the officer in a sworn report of the seizure and destruction, to be made to the Board. The report shall set forth the grounds of the claim of forfeiture, the reasons for seizure and destruction, and a statement that, from facts within their own knowledge, the seizing officer and witness have no doubt whatever that the mash was intended for use in the unlawful distillation of spirits, or that the alcoholic beverages were intended for use in violation of this subtitle. C. Hearing and determination. -- Upon the return of the warrant as provided in this section, the court shall fix a time not less than ten days, unless waived by the accused in writing, and not more than thirty days thereafter, for the hearing on such return to determine whether or not the articles seized, or any part thereof, were used or in any manner kept, stored or possessed in violation of this subtitle. At such hearing if no claimant appears, the court shall declare the articles seized forfeited to the Commonwealth and, if such articles are not necessary as evidence in any pending prosecution, shall turn them over to the Board. Any person claiming an interest in any of the articles seized may appear at the hearing and file a written claim setting forth particularly the character and extent of his interest. The court shall certify the warrant and the articles seized along with any claim filed to the circuit court to hear and determine the validity of such claim. If the evidence warrants, the court shall enter a judgment of forfeiture and order the articles seized to be turned over to the Board. Action under this section and the forfeiture of any articles hereunder shall not be a bar to any prosecution under any other provision of this subtitle. D. Disposition of forfeited beverages and other articles. -- Any articles forfeited to the Commonwealth and turned over to the Board in accordance with this section shall be destroyed or sold by the Board as it deems proper. The net proceeds from such sales shall be paid into the Literary Fund. If the Board believes that any alcoholic beverages forfeited to the Commonwealth and turned over to the Board in accordance with this section cannot be sold and should not be destroyed, it may give such alcoholic beverages for medicinal purposes to any institution in the Commonwealth regularly conducted as a hospital, nursing home or sanatorium for the care of persons in ill health, or as a home devoted exclusively to the care of aged people, to supply the needs of such institution for alcoholic beverages for such purposes, provided that (i) the State Health Commissioner has issued a certificate stating that such institution has need for such alcoholic beverages and (ii) preference is accorded by the Board to institutions supported either in whole or in part by public funds. A record shall be made showing the amount issued in each case, to whom issued and the date when issued, and shall be kept in the offices of the State Health Commissioner and the Board. No charge shall be made to any patient for the alcoholic beverages supplied to him where they have been received from the Board pursuant to this section. Such alcoholic beverages shall be administered only upon approval of the patient's physician. If the Board believes that any foodstuffs forfeited to the Commonwealth and turned over to the Board in accordance with this section are usable, should not be destroyed and cannot be sold or whose sale would be impractical, it may give such foodstuffs to any institution in the Commonwealth and shall prefer a gift to the local jail or other local correctional facility in the jurisdiction where seizure took place. A record shall be made showing the nature of the foodstuffs and amount given, to whom given and the date when given, and shall be kept in the offices of the Board. Code 1950, § 4-55; 1954, c. 484; 1958, c. 194; 1976, c. 37; 1993, c. 866; 1995, c. 196 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-339 Search and seizure of conveyances or vehicles used in violation of law; arrests

A. When any officer charged with the enforcement of the alcoholic beverage control laws of the Commonwealth has reason to believe that alcoholic beverages illegally acquired, or being illegally transported, are in any conveyance or vehicle of any kind, either on land or on water (except a conveyance or vehicle owned or operated by a railroad, express, sleeping or parlor car or steamboat company, other than barges, tugs or small craft), he shall obtain a search warrant and search such conveyance or vehicle. If illegally acquired alcoholic beverages or alcoholic beverages being illegally transported in amounts in excess of one quart or one liter if in a metric-sized container are found, the officer shall seize the alcoholic beverages, seize and take possession of such conveyance or vehicle, and deliver them to the chief law-enforcement officer of the locality in which such seizure was made, taking his receipt therefor in duplicate. B. The officer making such seizure shall also arrest all persons found in charge of such conveyance or vehicle and shall forthwith report in writing such seizure and arrest to the attorney for the Commonwealth for the county or city in which seizure and arrest were made. Code 1950, § 4-56; 1954, c. 504; 1968, c. 763; 1971, Ex. Sess., c. 155; 1973, c. 16; 1978, cc. 434, 436; 1981, c. 365; 1983, c. 271; 1984, c. 52; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-340 Repealed

Repealed by Acts 2012, cc. 283 and 756 , cl. 2.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-346 Contraband beverages

Alcoholic beverages seized pursuant to § 4.1-339 shall be deemed contraband as provided in § 4.1-336 and disposed of accordingly. Failure to maintain on a conveyance or vehicle a permit or other indicia of permission issued by the Board authorizing the transportation of alcoholic beverages within, into or through the Commonwealth when other Board regulations applicable to such transportation have been complied with shall not be cause for deeming such alcoholic beverages contraband. Code 1950, § 4-56; 1954, c. 504; 1968, c. 763; 1971, Ex. Sess., c. 155; 1973, c. 16; 1978, cc. 434, 436; 1981, c. 365; 1983, c. 271; 1984, c. 52; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-347 Repealed

Repealed by Acts 2012, cc. 283 and 756 , cl. 2.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-348 Beverages not licensed under this subtitle

The provisions of §§ 4.1-339 through 4.1-348 shall not apply to alcoholic beverages which may be manufactured and sold without any license under the provisions of this subtitle. Code 1950, § 4-56; 1954, c. 504; 1968, c. 763; 1971, Ex. Sess., c. 155; 1973, c. 16; 1978, cc. 434, 436; 1981, c. 365; 1983, c. 271; 1984, c. 52; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-349 Punishment for violations of title or regulations; bond

A. Any person convicted of a misdemeanor under the provisions of this subtitle without specification as to the class of offense or penalty, or convicted of violating any other provision thereof, or convicted of violating any Board regulation, shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. B. In addition to the penalties imposed by this subtitle for violations, any court before whom any person is convicted of a violation of any provision of this subtitle may require such defendant to execute bond, with approved security, in the penalty of not more than $1,000, with the condition that the defendant will not violate any of the provisions of this subtitle for the term of one year. If any such bond is required and is not given, the defendant shall be committed to jail until it is given, or until he is discharged by the court, provided he shall not be confined for a period longer than six months. If any such bond required by a court is not given during the term of the court by which conviction is had, it may be given before any judge or before the clerk of such court. C. The provisions of this subtitle shall not prevent the Board from suspending, revoking or refusing to continue the license of any person convicted of a violation of any provision of this subtitle. D. No court shall hear such a case unless the respective attorney for the Commonwealth or his assistant has been notified that such a case is pending. Code 1950, § 4-92; 1984, c. 603; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-350 Witness not excused from testifying because of self-incrimination

No person shall be excused from testifying for the Commonwealth as to any offense committed by another under this subtitle by reason of his testimony tending to incriminate him. The testimony given by such person on behalf of the Commonwealth when called as a witness for the prosecution shall not be used against him and he shall not be prosecuted for the offense to which he testifies. Code 1950, § 4-94; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-351 Previous convictions

In any indictment, information or warrant charging any person with a violation of any provision of this subtitle, it may be alleged and evidence may be introduced at the trial of such person to prove that such person has been previously convicted of a violation of this subtitle. Code 1950, § 4-91; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-352 Certificate of forensic scientist as evidence; requiring forensic scientist to appear

The certificate of any forensic scientist employed by the Commonwealth on behalf of the Board or the Department of Forensic Science, when signed by him, shall be admissible as evidence of the facts therein stated and of the results of such analysis (i) in any criminal proceeding, provided the requirements of subsection A of § 19.2-187.1 have been satisfied and the accused has not objected to the admission of the certificate pursuant to subsection B of § 19.2-187.1 or (ii) any civil proceeding. On motion of the accused or any party in interest, the court may require the forensic scientist making the analysis to appear as a witness and be subject to cross-examination, provided such motion is made within a reasonable time prior to the day on which the case is set for trial. Code 1950, § 4-90; 1972, c. 741; 1981, c. 410; 1993, c. 866; 2003, c. 130 ; 2005, cc. 868 , 881 ; 2026, Sp. Sess. I, c. 1 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-353 Label on sealed container prima facie evidence of alcoholic content

In any prosecution for violations of this subtitle, where a sealed container is labeled as containing an alcoholic beverage as defined herein, such labeling shall be prima facie evidence of the alcoholic content of the container. Nothing shall preclude the introduction of other relevant evidence to establish the alcoholic content of a container, whether sealed or not. 1962, c. 616, § 4-90.1; 1993, cc. 169, 866; 1997, c. 418 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-354 No recovery for alcoholic beverages illegally sold

No action to recover the price of any alcoholic beverages sold in contravention of this subtitle may be maintained. Code 1950, § 4-88; 1993, c. 866.

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-355 (Effective October 1, 2026) Illegal sale of retail tobacco products in general; penalty

Any person who is not a retail tobacco permittee who sells any retail tobacco product except as permitted by this subtitle or, for manufacturers or distributors licensed by the Department of Taxation, purchases such products for resale pursuant to Title 58.1, is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. 2026, cc. 1021 , 1044 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-356 (Effective October 1, 2026) Packaging of certain retail tobacco products; civil penalty

A. Cigarettes shall be sold only in sealed packages provided by the manufacturer, with the required health warning. The proprietor of every retail tobacco establishment that offers for sale any retail tobacco product shall post in a conspicuous manner and place a sign or signs indicating that the sale of retail tobacco products to any person under 21 years of age is prohibited by law. B. For the purpose of compliance with regulations of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration published as 61 Federal Register 1492, the Board may promulgate regulations that allow the Board to undertake the activities necessary to comply with such regulations. C. Agents of the Authority may issue a summons for any violation of this section. Any attorney for the locality in which an alleged violation of this section occurred may enforce this section by civil action to recover a civil penalty not to exceed $500. The civil penalty shall be paid into the local treasury. No filing fee or other fee or cost shall be charged to the locality which instituted the action. D. Nothing in this section shall be construed to create a private cause of action. 2026, cc. 1021 , 1044 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-357 (Effective October 1, 2026) Sale or distribution of liquid nicotine container; prohibition; penalty

A. No person shall sell or distribute at retail or offer for retail sale or distribution a liquid nicotine container in the Commonwealth unless such liquid nicotine container meets child-resistant packaging standards. B. Any person who sells or distributes at retail or offers for retail sale or distribution a liquid nicotine container in the Commonwealth that he knows or has reason to know does not satisfy the child-resistant packaging standards required by this section is guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor. However, no person shall be guilty of a violation of this section who relies in good faith on any information provided by the manufacturer of a liquid nicotine container that such container meets the requirements of this section. C. The provisions of this article do not apply to any manufacturer or wholesaler of liquid nicotine containers who sells or distributes a liquid nicotine container, provided that any such liquid nicotine container sold or distributed is intended for use outside of the Commonwealth. D. The provisions of subsection A shall be null, void, and of no force and effect upon the effective date of either enacted federal legislation or final regulations issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or by any other federal agency where such legislation or regulations mandate child-resistant packaging for liquid nicotine containers. E. The provisions of this section with respect to retail sales, retail establishments, and offers for retail sales shall only apply to retail sales or offers at retail of liquid nicotine containers before July 1, 2024. 2026, cc. 1021 , 1044 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-358 (Effective October 1, 2026) Purchase of retail tobacco products from person not authorized to sell; penalty

Any person who buys retail tobacco products from any person other than a retail tobacco permittee authorized under this subtitle is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. 2026, cc. 1021 , 1044 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-359 (Effective October 1, 2026) Persons to whom retail tobacco products may not be sold; proof of legal age; civil penalty

A. No person shall sell to any person younger than 21 years of age, knowing or having reason to believe that such person is younger than 21 years of age, any retail tobacco products. No person shall sell retail tobacco products from a vending machine. B. 1. No person shall sell a retail tobacco product to any individual who does not demonstrate, by producing a driver's license or similar photo identification issued by a government agency, that the individual is at least 21 years of age. 2. Before a retail tobacco permittee may sell retail tobacco products, other than cigar and pipe tobacco products as defined in § 58.1-1021.01 , to any consumer, the person selling, offering for sale, giving, or furnishing the retail tobacco products shall verify that the consumer is of legal age by examining from any person who appears to be under 30 years of age a government-issued photographic identification that establishes that the person is of legal age or verifying the identification presented using identification fraud detection software, technology, or a scanner that confirms the authenticity of such identification. 3. This subsection shall not apply to mail order or internet sales, provided that the person offering the retail tobacco product for sale through mail order or the internet (i) prior to the sale of the retail tobacco product verifies that the purchaser is at least 21 years of age through a commercially available database that is regularly used by businesses or governmental entities for the purpose of age and identity verification and (ii) uses a method of mailing, shipping, or delivery that requires the signature of a person at least 21 years of age before the retail tobacco product is released to the purchaser. C. A violation of subsection A or B by an individual is punishable by a civil penalty in the amount of $1,000 for a first violation, a civil penalty in the amount of $5,000 for a second violation within a three-year period, or a civil penalty in the amount of $10,000 for a third or subsequent violation within a three-year period. Such civil penalty shall not preclude the Board from taking administrative action against a retail tobacco permittee for the conduct of his agent or employee who violates subsection A or B. If applicable, upon a second or subsequent violation within a three-year period, the Board may suspend or revoke any retail tobacco permit issued pursuant to this subtitle. D. 1. The Board shall conduct an unannounced underage buyer operation at least once every 24 months to verify that the retail tobacco permittee is not selling retail tobacco products to persons younger than 21 years of age. If the Board determines that the retail tobacco permittee has violated the provisions of this section, the Board shall conduct an additional underage buyer operation of the retail tobacco permittee within six months of a Board order substantiating such violation. 2. The Board shall provide an annual report, beginning December 1, 2026, to the General Assembly on the efficacy of such unannounced underage buyer operation to verify that each retail tobacco licensee is not selling retail tobacco products to persons younger than 21 years of age. 2026, cc. 1021 , 1044 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-360 (Effective October 1, 2026) Prohibiting possession of retail tobacco products by a person younger than 21 years of age; seizure

A. No person younger than 21 years of age shall possess any retail tobacco product. The provisions of this section shall not apply to the possession of retail tobacco products by a person younger than 21 years of age (i) making a delivery of retail tobacco products in pursuance of his employment or (ii) as part of a scientific study being conducted by an organization for the purpose of medical research to further efforts in cigarette and tobacco use prevention and cessation and tobacco product regulation, provided that such medical research has been approved by an institutional review board pursuant to applicable federal regulations or by a research review committee pursuant to Chapter 5.1 (§ 32.1-162.16 et seq.) of Title 32.1. This subsection shall not apply to the possession of any retail tobacco product by a law-enforcement officer or his agent when the same is necessary in the performance of his duties. B. Any retail tobacco product possessed in violation of this section shall be deemed contraband and may be seized by a law-enforcement officer. Any such retail tobacco product, the lawful possession of which is not established, seized by such officer shall be forfeited and disposed of according to the process described in subdivision A 2 of § 19.2-386.23 . C. The seizure of contraband pursuant to subsection B shall be the sole penalty for a violation of this section. D. The provisions of this section shall not preclude prosecution under any other statute. 2026, cc. 1021 , 1044 .

Va. Code Ann. § 4.1-361 (Effective October 1, 2026) Purchasing retail tobacco products for person to whom they may not be sold; penalty; forfeiture

A. Any person who purchases for, or otherwise gives, provides, or assists in the provision of retail tobacco products to another person, when he knows or has reason to know that such person is younger than 21 years of age, except (i) where possession of the retail tobacco products by a person younger than 21 years of age is due to such person's making a delivery of retail tobacco products in pursuance of his employment or (ii) as part of a scientific study being conducted by an organization for the purpose of medical research to further efforts in cigarette and tobacco use prevention and cessation and tobacco product regulation, provided that such medical research has been approved by an institutional review board pursuant to applicable federal regulations or by a research review committee pursuant to Chapter 5.1 (§ 32.1-162.16 et seq.) of Title 32.1. This subsection shall not apply to the possession of any retail tobacco product by a law-enforcement officer or his agent when the same is necessary in the performance of his duties. B. A violation of subsection A by an individual is punishable by a civil penalty in the amount of $100. Such civil penalty shall not preclude the Board from taking administrative action against a retail tobacco permittee for the conduct of his agent or employee who violates subsection A. C. Any retail tobacco products purchased or possessed in violation of this section shall be deemed contraband and may be seized by a law-enforcement officer. Any such retail tobacco product, the lawful possession of which is not established, seized by such officer shall be forfeited and disposed of according to the process described in § 19.2-386.37 2026, cc. 1021 , 1044 .

Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title4.1/chapter3/Fetched: 10/16/2026