Do I need a permit to remove an invasive shrub on my lot?

It depends on size, location, and whether the work affects dunes, wetlands, or public-rights-of-way; contact Planning for permit guidance.

Are there rules to prevent bird collisions with buildings on private property?

The city encourages bird-safe design measures; building-specific regulations are typically handled through design review or zoning permit conditions.

How do I report unpermitted removal or a nuisance caused by invasive plants?

Report to Code Enforcement online or by phone; they investigate complaints and issue orders when necessary.

Virginia Beach Bylaws: Bird-Safe & Invasive Plant Rules

Environmental Protection Virginia 3 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026

Virginia Beach, Virginia property owners must balance bird-safe practices with invasive plant control while following municipal rules and permit requirements. This guide summarizes the city code, departments to contact, typical permit paths, and practical actions to remove invasive vegetation or reduce bird collisions on private property. Where the municipal code or department pages do not specify fees or penalties, the text notes that fact and points to official sources for confirmation. Use the steps below to plan removals, request inspections, or appeal orders.

Overview of Applicable Rules

Local requirements for vegetation removal, tree protection, shoreline or dune work, and nuisance wildlife are governed by the City of Virginia Beach ordinances and implemented by departments that issue permits and handle compliance. Consult the city code for ordinance text and review department permit pages before work on erodible areas, dunes, or public-rights-of-way. See the municipal code and planning/permits pages for details: Virginia Beach Code of Ordinances^[1], and the Planning/Development pages for permit requirements: Virginia Beach Planning & Permits^[2].

Begin by checking shoreline, tree, and stormwater permit rules before removing large plants.

Common Rules Affecting Bird Safety and Invasive Species Removal

Tree protection and street-tree rules may require permits for removal or pruning.
Seasonal restrictions and nesting protections can limit timing for cutting or construction.
Work in dunes, wetlands, or the shoreline often requires additional environmental approvals.
Code compliance and nuisance-vegetation provisions allow inspections and orders to abate unsafe conditions.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by City code compliance and the relevant permitting department; common outcomes include written compliance orders, stop-work orders, civil penalties, and city abatement where the city removes prohibited vegetation at the owner's expense. Specific monetary fines and schedules are not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed in the municipal code or with Code Enforcement. For reporting or to request inspection, contact Code Enforcement directly: Code Enforcement^[3].

If you receive an abatement order, respond promptly to avoid escalation and higher charges.

Fines: not specified on the cited page; check the municipal code for amounts.
Escalation: first warnings, then orders and civil penalties; specific escalation ranges not specified on the cited page.
Non-monetary sanctions: compliance orders, stop-work orders, abatement at owner expense, court enforcement.
Enforcer: Code Enforcement and the issuing permit department (Planning, Public Works, Parks & Recreation).
Appeals/review: appeals or requests for hearings are handled per the ordinance or permit procedures; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page—confirm with the issuing office.

Applications & Forms

Permits commonly involved include tree/vegetation removal permits, shoreline and dune work permits, and land-disturbing permits for larger projects. The Planning/Permits pages list application procedures and contact points; however, specific form numbers or fee schedules are not specified on the cited pages. Before starting work, request the correct permit packet from Planning or Public Works.

Always obtain required permits before removing large trees or working in protected shorelines.

Practical Steps for Property Owners

Identify the plant, sensitive habitats, and whether birds nest on the site; modify timing to avoid nesting seasons.
Consult the municipal code and request pre-application guidance from Planning for permits.
Submit required permit applications and any environmental or erosion-control plans.
If inspected, comply with orders promptly or file an appeal per the issuing department's process.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove an invasive shrub on my lot?: It depends on size, location, and whether the work affects dunes, wetlands, or public-rights-of-way; contact Planning for permit guidance.
Are there rules to prevent bird collisions with buildings on private property?: The city encourages bird-safe design measures; building-specific regulations are typically handled through design review or zoning permit conditions.
How do I report unpermitted removal or a nuisance caused by invasive plants?: Report to Code Enforcement online or by phone; they investigate complaints and issue orders when necessary.

How-To

Document the site with photos and note species, location, and any nesting activity.
Contact Planning or the permitting office for pre-application advice and determine needed permits.
Apply for permits, attach required plans, and schedule inspections if required.
Complete work as approved; if cited, follow the compliance order or submit an appeal within the stated timeframe.

Key Takeaways

Check permits before removing large plants, trees, or working in dunes and wetlands.
Contact Code Enforcement for complaints and Planning for permit guidance.