Virginia legal term

Explosive material in Virginia Criminal Law

Current through 2026 Virginia legislative session

In Virginia criminal law, “Explosive material” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Virginia criminal code.

What does “Explosive material” mean in Virginia criminal law?

"Explosive material" means any chemical compound mixture, or device, the primary or common purpose of which is to function by explosion; the term includes, but is not limited to, dynamite and other high explosives, black powder, pellet powder, smokeless gun powder, detonators, blasting caps, and detonating cord but shall not include fireworks or permissible fireworks as defined in § 27-95 . (Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.2)

Statutes defining or using this term

Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.2
Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-85

Charges using this term

Carrying a firearm or explosive material within Capitol Square and the surrounding area, into a building owned or leased by the Commonwealth, etc
Possession, manufacture, distribution, etc., of weapon of terrorism or hoax device prohibited

Related terms in the same statutes

Conduct
Juvenile
Law-enforcement officer
Knowingly
Firearm
Governor
Property
Individual
Employee
Device
Adult
Manufacture

This reference is informational and is not legal advice.