No. Child labor under age 14 is illegal in Virginia under state and federal law, with limited exceptions for minors 12–13 in specific agricultural or entertainment roles. Violations trigger penalties from the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), including fines up to $15,000 per violation. The 2026 Virginia General Assembly is considering stricter enforcement mechanisms, including mandatory child labor training for employers.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Virginia
- Employment Prohibition: Minors under 14 are barred from all non-agricultural work, per Virginia Code § 40.1-100 and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Exceptions exist for babysitting, delivering newspapers, or working for a parent’s business (if not hazardous).
- Agricultural Exemptions: Children 12–13 may work on farms with parental consent, but only outside school hours and in non-hazardous tasks, as outlined in Virginia’s Agricultural Child Labor Regulations (29 CFR Part 570).
- Entertainment Industry Waivers: The Virginia Film Office may issue permits for minors under 14 in film, theater, or modeling, provided they comply with DOLI’s 2024-2025 guidelines on work hours and tutoring requirements.
Employers must verify age via birth certificates or school records and post DOLI-approved notices. The 2026 Virginia Child Labor Act amendments propose digital verification systems to curb underage employment. Non-compliance risks civil penalties and license revocation for businesses.