CPHD
Rezoning
Virginia enabling legislation specifies zoning as a power available to localities for local control over land use. Arlington's Zoning Ordinance first adopted in 1930 is the primary means for regulating the use of land; the size and coverage of lots; the height, bulk, and siting of buildings; parking requirements; and the density of development.
The Zoning Ordinance consists of text and a map and classifies all land according to various "districts." These districts represent three broad categories of use: residential, commercial/office, and industrial. Each district acknowledges the right to pursue a certain type and level of development. Beyond this, certain districts provide administrative mechanisms for special exception (variance, site plan, use permit), which allow for greater flexibility in use, density, and form of development.
A rezoning request may be filed with the Zoning Administrator if a development proposal is achievable under one or more of the County's zoning districts, but not under the current zoning for the affected parcel.
Action on rezoning requests is taken by the County Board four times a year. A rezoning hearing may also be requested at other times if the County Board agrees to hear such requests. The Planning Commission evaluates all rezoning requests and makes a recommendation at a public hearing prior to final action by the County Board.
Rezoning requests must be filed at least 90 days in advance of the County Board hearing to allow for proper legal advertising and administrative review of the request.
A determination is made by the Planning Division as to whether the proposed zoning is compatible with the General Land Use Plan. The General Land Use Plan establishes the general location, type, and intensity of land uses and serves as the official policy guide against which rezoning requests are measured. If the desired zoning is not compatible, an amendment to the General Land Use Plan may be requested. General Land Use Plan amendments require public hearings before both the County Board and the Planning Commission.
