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Is raw milk legal in Virginia?
Yes. Raw milk is legal in Virginia - through herdshares - and many farms offer it.
On-farm sales
Not legalHerdshares
Legalstate agriculture department policyRetail stores
Not legalFind raw milk in Virginia
See farms in Virginia listed in the Milk Finder, and the ones that deliver or have pickup near you.
Frequently asked questions
Is raw milk legal in Virginia?
Yes. Raw milk is legal in Virginia - through herdshares - and many farms offer it.
Can you buy raw milk directly from a farm in Virginia?
No. Buying raw milk on the farm is not legal in Virginia.
Are herdshares (cow shares) legal in Virginia?
Yes. A herdshare is legal in Virginia (state agriculture department policy).
Can you buy raw milk in stores in Virginia?
No. Selling raw milk in retail stores is not legal in Virginia.
Raw milk laws in nearby states
❌ Maryland❌ Washington, D.C.✅ West Virginia⚠️ Kentucky✅ Tennessee✅ North Carolina All 50 states →
This is a plain-language summary for families, not legal advice. Laws change and sources sometimes disagree - before you buy, check the farm’s permit, test results and labels with the state’s department of agriculture.