The VDH Division of Shellfish Safety & Waterborne Hazards (DSSWH) is responsible for protecting the health ofhttps://www.vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/196/2025/06/shutterstock_456531082.jpg the consumers of molluscan shellfish and crustacea by ensuring that shellfish growing waters are properly classified for harvesting, and that molluscan shellfish and crustacea processing facilities meet sanitation standards.
Shellfish Safety Links
Summer Oyster Harvest Inquiries:
The regulations regarding the harvest of shellfish during the summer months, 4VAC20-1230-30 “Public Health and Warm Water Harvest Restrictions,” can be found here.
Notification Database Form:
Submit your information to receive alerts when shellfish condemnations change. here.
Updated Shellfish Closure and Shoreline Survey documents:
Shellfish closure and Shoreline Survey documents can be accessed via the Division’s external document web page found here. Shellfish Safety – Environmental Health
Water Sampling Slideshow:
View a slideshow to learn more about the Division’s sampling of Virginia’s waterways here.