2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26102120D

HOUSE BILL NO. 492

Offered January 14, 2026

Prefiled January 12, 2026

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Article 5 of Chapter 10 of Title 56 a section numbered 56-260.2, relating to vegetation management by public utilities in public parks.

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Patron—Seibold

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Referred to Committee on Labor and Commerce

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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding in Article 5 of Chapter 10 of Title 56 a section numbered 56-260.2 as follows:

§ 56-260.2. Vegetation management in public parks.

A public utility, when managing trees, shrubs, or other plants located in any public park owned or operated by a locality, or by any authority or local governmental entity created or controlled by a locality, shall consult with the locality and aim to trim or prune such trees, shrubs, or other plants only to the extent necessary to preserve the reliability of service.