Community Development

The purpose of this review is to allow the general fire protection scheme to be reviewed before the review of the final plans.

Development or redevelopment of a property may require comprehensive site plan approval.

Per the City’s Subdivision and Zoning Ordinances and the City’s Design and Construction Standards Manual (DCSM), the City requires that a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) be conducted for any planned development (associated with rezonings, special use permits, preliminary plats, and engineered comprehensive site plans) expected to generate 100 or more peak hour vehicle trips.

The City of Harrisonburg hosts pre-application meetings for rezonings, special use permits, major subdivisions (preliminary plats), street/alley closings, and engineered comprehensive site plans twice a month for property owners, developers, engineers, attorneys, etc. to meet with city departments.

An online tool from Harrisonburg’s Department of Community Development is available to help individuals as they obtain certain permits from the City.

Allowable signage is calculated differently depending on the zoning district where the sign is to be displayed.

Residents who meet requirements of City Code Section 15-2-24 may apply for a permit to keep chickens within Harrisonburg city limits.

To operate a business from your home, you must apply for a Home Occupation Permit and a Business License.

Individuals interested in operating a business must complete the Zoning & Building Form before applying for your Business License with the Commissioner of Revenue.