Zoning Administrator Determinations & Advice

The Code of Virginia empowers the Zoning Administrator to interpret the Zoning Ordinance when there is a need for clarity in the application and administration of zoning regulations; either generally or as applied to a specific property. To this end, the Zoning Administrator issues written determinations and advice memorializing such interpretations and findings of fact.

Most Zoning Administrator Determinations are site-specific and affect only the property for which the determination as requested. However, some Zoning Administrator determinations cover topics that are much more broadly applicable to many different properties, and these Determinations are provided below.

• Zoning Administrator Determination Request

Determinations

Zoning Determinations are formal decisions by the Zoning Administrator specifically interpreting zoning and/or land use regulations. See below for information on appealing a determination.

Advice

In addition to formal determinations, the Zoning Administrator issues written advice to provide guidance on the policies and practices staff follows in applying specific zoning regulations. Zoning Administrator advice is typically general and applicable to many properties, and is provided below. 

Appealing a Determination

Determinations are appealable to the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) within 30 days from the date of issuance.