PLANNING DEPARTMENT
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

If your question has not been addressed below click Who Do I Call
or call the City’s Main Number at (757) 393-8000.

Please find below:
Land Development/Zoning Related Questions
Other Planning Questions

Land Development/Zoning Related Questions:

Question: Is my property in a historic district or other district with certain development restrictions?
Answer: Please contact us at (757) 393-8836 and we’ll be happy to assist you with this question. Be sure to state the complete address when calling.

Question: Do you provide zoning assistance?
Answer: No. The Zoning Administrator is located in the Department of Permits and Inspections. They may be reached at (757) 393-8531. They can assist with setback information, lot dimensional requirements and general lot development information.

Question: What is my property zoned?
Answer: For quick online access, utilize the interactive map on the City’s home page. For more detailed information, contact the Zoning Administrator in the Department of Permits and Inspections at (757) 393-8531.

Question: I need a copy of my physical survey. Do you maintain them?
Answer: No. If you are a homeowner, the physical survey may have been included in your closing documents when you closed on your home loan. If not, you must consult a private surveying firm and have them survey your property. The City will only survey its own property.

Question: I want to develop my property. Should I visit the Planning Department first?
Answer: No. It is best to visit the Permits and Inspections Department, first. They will require a physical survey or site plan in order to review your development request. They are located on the fourth floor of City Hall and may be reached at (757) 393-8531.

Question: I need to renew my business license; whom should I speak with?
Answer: The Zoning Administrator in the Department of Permits and Inspections can assist with your business license clearance. They can be reached at (757) 393-8531.

Other Planning Questions:

Question: Are you the Planning Council?
Answer: No. Planning Council is a social services agency in Norfolk, Virginia that provides for a variety of social services needs. They may be reached at (757) 622-9268.

Question: I need social services assistance. Can you assist me?
Answer: We are the City of Portsmouth Planning Department, which specializes in land use and development. For Social Services needs you may either contact the City of Portsmouth Department of Social Services at (757) 405-1800 or Planning Council in Norfolk, Virginia at (757) 622-9268.