Va. Code § 27-20: Destruction of property to prevent spread of fire

The chief, or other officer commanding in his absence, may direct the pulling down or destroying of any fence, house, or other thing which he may judge necessary to be pulled down or destroyed to prevent the further spreading of a fire, and for this purpose may require such assistance from all present as he shall judge necessary.Code 1919, § 3133; 1970, c. 187; 2001, c. 142; 2008, c. 410; 2015, cc. 502, 503.