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Can I use social media to promote my business without violating advertising laws in Virginia? What are the requirements?
Social Media Advertising Requirements in Virginia
In Virginia, there are no specific requirements for social media advertising. However, businesses should ensure that their advertisements comply with the disclosure requirements under Chapter 9.3 and obtain any necessary permits or licenses for outdoor advertising [1.1][1.2][1.3].
Exceptions to Advertising Regulations
According to VACV 33.2-1204, certain signs and advertisements are excepted from all the provisions of the article except those enumerated in §§ 33.2-1202, 33.2-1205, and 33.2-1208, subdivisions 2 through 12 of § 33.2-1216, and §§ 33.2-1217, 33.2-1224, and 33.2-1227. These exceptions include advertisements securely attached to a place of business or residence and no more than 10 advertising structures, with a combined total area of such advertisements and advertising structures, exclusive of the area occupied by the name of the business, owner, or lessee, of no more than 500 square feet, erected or maintained, or caused to be erected or maintained, by the owner or lessee of such place of business or residence, within 250 feet of such place of business or residence or located on the real property of such place of business or residence and relating solely to merchandise, services, or entertainment sold, produced, manufactured, or furnished at such place of business or residence [2.1].
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are no specific requirements for social media advertising in Virginia. However, businesses should ensure that their advertisements comply with the disclosure requirements under Chapter 9.3 and obtain any necessary permits or licenses for outdoor advertising. Additionally, certain signs and advertisements are excepted from all the provisions of the article, including advertisements securely attached to a place of business or residence and no more than 10 advertising structures, with a combined total area of such advertisements and advertising structures, exclusive of the area occupied by the name of the business, owner, or lessee, of no more than 500 square feet, erected or maintained, or caused to be erected or maintained, by the owner or lessee of such place of business or residence, within 250 feet of such place of business or residence or located on the real property of such place of business or residence and relating solely to merchandise, services, or entertainment sold, produced, manufactured, or furnished at such place of business or residence [1.1][2.1][1.2][1.3].
Source(s):
- [1.1] Requirements for print media advertisements sponsored by a person or political committee, other than a candidate campaign committee
- [2.1] Excepted signs, advertisements, and advertising structures
- [1.2] General provisions; applicability to advertisements in video format
- [1.3] Requirements for print media advertisements sponsored by a candidate campaign committee
Jurisdiction
Virginia