The Planning and Zoning Division of the Department of Community Development promotes development as desired by the community through the Comprehensive Plan and with consistent application of the zoning and subdivision regulations and other land use codes.
Planning and Zoning staff offer guidance on zoning, subdivision and land use regulations, and evaluate and process land use, subdivision and permit applications. Staff works collaboratively with residents, property owners, and the public to address planning inquiries and ensure development is aligned with the Comprehensive Plan.
Contact the Planning and Zoning Division
Administrative Review (by city staff only)
Some applications are evaluated solely through staff review to ensure compliance with City regulations without public hearings.
Required for new business operations before applying for a Business License.
Home Occupation Permits for Home Businesses
Individuals interested in operating a business from their home may apply for a Home Occupation Permit before applying for a Business License.
Minor Subdivisions and Final Plats
The division of a lot or parcel of land into two or more lots or parcels, or boundary line adjustments.
A sign permit is required prior to displaying signage.
Floodplain Regulations
Properties located within the floodplain or floodway are subject to additional regulations. Contact the Zoning Administrator at (540) 432-7700 for more information. Flood Map Service Center (FEMA).
Allows up to six (6) chickens for domestic purposes with an annual permit.
Residents may operate a Homestay (commonly referred to as “Airbnbs”) if they meet the requirements for operating a Homestay.
Allows residents to keep honeybees on residential property with an annual permit.
Planning Commission and City Council Review
Some applications may require review by the Planning Commission, with some requiring public hearings by either the Planning Commission, City Council, or both.
Land Use
Property owners can request rezoning, special use permits, or zoning ordinance amendments to pursue land uses beyond current zoning rights. Such actions require City Council approval.
Major Subdivisions/Preliminary Plats
When the division of a lot, tract or parcel of land involved more than five (5) acres in gross area or is proposed to be divided in more than four (4) lots, a major subdivision is required.
- Major Subdivisions/Preliminary Plats without variances (Planning Commission only)
- Major Subdivisions/Preliminary Plats with variances
Comprehensive Plan Amendments
Update the land use designations or text of the Comprehensive Plan to align the Comprehensive Plan with proposed rezonings.
Street and Alley Closings
Property owners may request to "close" and purchase adjacent to city streets or alleys.
Short-Term Rentals (Lodging)
Residents who wants to operate outside of what is permitted through a Homestay use may apply for a Special Use Permit to operate a Short-Term Rental.
2025 Planning Commission meeting dates and deadlines [196KB]
Board of Zoning Appeals - BZA
Requests for Zoning Ordinance variances or appeals of a decision of the Zoning Administrator are directed to the Board of Zoning Appeals.
2025 Board of Zoning Appeals meeting dates and deadlines [190KB]
City Council
The City allows downtown outdoor dining on public streets and sidewalks in the B-1 Central Business District through review and approval by City Council.