Community Development

An elevator permit is required for the design, construction, installation, alteration, and repair of an elevator or conveyance system. The work must be performed by a qualified elevator mechanic.

The Design and Construction Standards Manual (DCSM) provides design and construction standards for projects within the City of Harrisonburg.

The Building Inspections Division of the Department of Planning & Community Development pursues quick and efficient review of plans and inspections for fair interpretation and enforcement of all State-adopted building codes and associated regulations, while educating the public and promoting safety.

A building permit is required for any new construction, alterations, additions, demolitions, accessory buildings, swimming pools, and/or other types of construction, which will improve or upgrade any property in the City of Harrisonburg.

Site Plan Documents

The zoning regulations and districts have been made in accordance with the comprehensive plan, to promote, in accordance with present and future needs, the health, safety, morals, order, convenience, prosperity and general welfare of the citizens of Harrisonburg, Virginia, and to provide for efficiency and economy in the process of development.

Phone, fax, address, hours, and email directory for the Harrisonburg Department of Planning and Community Development.

The Department of Community Development is committed to offering professional and courteous customer service while striving for and promoting sound planning, engineering, and building practices, and, together with the community, works to provide a more desirable, livable, safe, and enduring built environment.

The City of Harrisonburg administers a variety of permits. Most permits are administered by Department of Community Development staff who coordinate with other departments to ensure projects are undertaken in conjunction with all applicable ordinances, codes, and standards.