Va. Code § 27-6.1: Establishment of fire department; chief, officers, and employees

The governing body of any county, city, or town may establish a fire department as a department of government and may designate it by any name consistent with the names of its other governmental units. The head of such fire department shall be known as "the chief." As many other officers and employees may be employed in such fire department as the governing body may approve.1970, c. 187; 2001, c. 142; 2008, c. 410; 2015, cc. 502, 503.