PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) – If you plan to vote in person in the Nov. 5 general election, there are several things to know before you go.

Local election headquarters on WAVY.com

The following are illegal in the polling place and in the restricted area, which is defined as the area within 40 feet of the entrance to any polling place:

• Knowingly possesses a firearm within or within 40 feet of a polling place, including one hour before and one hour after a building is used as a polling place. Exceptions include a qualified law enforcement officer or retired law enforcement officer, any person occupying their own private property who is within 40 feet of a polling place, or an authorized armed security officer whose employment or performance of duties it takes place 40 meters from the polling station.

• Walks or gatherings in the polling station and prohibited area.

• Preventing or delaying qualified voters from entering or exiting.

• obstructing or delaying any election officer or polling officer.

• Neutral observers and authorized representatives assisting voters.

The following are illegal in the polling station:

• Campaign, offer, auction or display any ballot, ticket or other campaign material to any person.

• Soliciting or attempting in any way to influence any person in casting a vote.

• Be able to see any voter’s marked ballot.

The next one is PERMISSIVE outer prohibited area:

Campaign in a manner that does not obstruct voters or election officials. The media can conduct interviews and broadcast the reporters’ observations.

Campaign Stickers, Buttons and Apparel:

Only voters are allowed to display or wear campaign stickers, buttons, wristbands and clothing in the polling station. All others, such as election officers and authorized representatives, may not wear such clothing.

PERMISSIVE in the voting booth:

Voters are allowed to take sample voting guides and campaign materials with them into a polling booth.

Click here to read the Code of Virginia which highlights prohibited activities and penalties at polling stations.

Virginia Voter Resources

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