We manage the shellfish resources and shellfish harvest that occurs in Virginia’s tidal waters. This includes the management of the public oyster and clam grounds and those private grounds which are leased for the propagation of shellfish. We also process and issue all necessary permits related to commercial shellfish aquaculture activities.
The Shellfish Management Division coordinates on shellfish related matters with the other Divisions within the Agency and with numerous other entities and groups that may be involved in activities that pertain to Virginia’s shellfish resources or interests
Within the Shellfish Management Division, the Engineering and Surveying Department is responsible for surveying and mapping subaqueous ground for public and private shellfish cultivation, leasing private shellfish grounds, and maintaining oyster ground lease records and maps
Within the Shellfish Management Division, the Conservation and Replenishment Department is tasked with the management and replenishment of the public oyster ground resources in Virginia to include setting yearly public grounds harvest seasons.
Procurement Notices - These notices solicit bids from the public or watermen for shell and stone planting in Virginia for replenishment and restoration efforts.
Steps to buy/sell oysters:
VMRC License requirements:
Once you become a Certified Shellfish Dealer and you wish to buy oysters, you will need to purchase an Oyster Buyers User Fee & Oyster Buyers license. An Oyster Buyers vehicle or vessel ID permit is also required for each vehicle or vessel that carries oysters.
There are two types of Oyster Buyer User Fees and Oyster Buyer Licenses:
Oyster Single Buyer User Fee/ Oyster Single Buyer license:
A single place of business with one boat or motor vehicle used for buying oysters.
Oyster Multiple Buyer User Fee/ Oyster Multiple Buyer license:
A single place of business with multiple boats or motor vehicles used for buying oysters.
If it is your first time as an Oyster Buyer, please contact Conservation & Replenishment Department at (757) 247-2120 to get preauthorized to purchase the Oyster Buyer User Fee and Oyster Licenses that best meets your needs.
