Zoning Modernization Project

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Albemarle County has begun an update of the County’s Zoning Ordinance. This update is intended to reorganize, simplify, and address current zoning issues. The Zoning Ordinance is the County’s legal framework that defines how land is used and developed. It plays a role in what your neighborhood looks like, where businesses locate, and how natural features are protected. It is intended to protect and preserve the general health, safety, and welfare of all community members.

Zoning Ordinance Evaluation Report

This report identifies actions Albemarle County should consider to strengthen the Zoning Ordinance and ensure compliance with the Code of Virginia requirements. Specific actions are also recommended to improve the consistency, clarity, and completeness of the Zoning Ordinance. These recommended changes will improve the ability of public officials, citizens, and other stakeholders to understand, administer, and use the ordinance. Read the report.


Albemarle County has begun an update of the County’s Zoning Ordinance. This update is intended to reorganize, simplify, and address current zoning issues. The Zoning Ordinance is the County’s legal framework that defines how land is used and developed. It plays a role in what your neighborhood looks like, where businesses locate, and how natural features are protected. It is intended to protect and preserve the general health, safety, and welfare of all community members.

Zoning Ordinance Evaluation Report

This report identifies actions Albemarle County should consider to strengthen the Zoning Ordinance and ensure compliance with the Code of Virginia requirements. Specific actions are also recommended to improve the consistency, clarity, and completeness of the Zoning Ordinance. These recommended changes will improve the ability of public officials, citizens, and other stakeholders to understand, administer, and use the ordinance. Read the report.


  • What is Zoning?

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    Zoning is a tool that localities use to govern the physical development of land and the kinds of uses allowed on individual property. Zoning may also regulate the dimensional requirements for lots, buildings, and structures; the density of development; and how development relates to its surroundings, including other buildings, open spaces, and the street. Zoning is regulated under Virginia State Code §15.2, Chapter 22, Article 7.

    Zoning Can:

    • Divide land into districts for different uses, such as industrial, commercial, and residential.
    • Regulate the size and type of building that can be constructed in each district.
    • Require development standards, such as screening and setbacks, to minimize impacts on adjacent property.
    • Protect sensitive resources from inconsistent or harmful use.
    • Enhance community character with signage, parking, and landscaping standards. Support affordable housing and economic development goals.

    Zoning Cannot:

    • Change or correct land use or buildings already in existence.
    • Guarantee that development will take place.
    • Assure that land uses will be permanent.
    • Treat similar uses differently within a district. Ensure property is maintained. (This is accomplished through other means, such as Virginia Maintenance Code and Blight Abatement.)
    • Guide public or private investment in infrastructure.
Page last updated: 26 Mar 2024, 04:04 PM