Virginia Firearms Laws: Navigating Rights from the Shenandoah Valley to the Chesapeake Bay

Universal Background Checks, Red Flag Laws, CCW Permits & Preemption in the Old Dominion

Virginia’s firearm laws have seen significant debate and change, moving from a highly permissive state to one with universal background checks and “Red Flag” laws. From the suburbs of Northern Virginia to the rural counties of the South, gun owners must navigate a “shall-issue” concealed carry permit system and new restrictions on certain types of firearms in local public spaces. This category breaks down Virginia’s “Stand Your Ground” (by case law), the legalities of open carry, and the current status of state preemption over local ordinances.