PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The City of Portsmouth is taking new strides to combat crime by updating city codes to be stricter for permitting new entertainment venues.

During their meeting on Tuesday, city council voted to update the city code for zoning permits when it comes to new entertainment, restaurants, and private club venues.

The new code requires anyone looking to receive an entertainment zoning permit to follow new regulations that include closing their business by midnight and keeping 24/7 surveillance on the front, side, and rear exteriors.

However, venues with existing permits are not completely off the hook.

The new code also requires that if any establishment has more than two violent incidents in a 12-month period, the owners will be brought to the council for review.

"We wante

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