Zoning
Zoning staff is available for walk-in customers between the hours of 8:00am and 4:00pm Monday through Friday. No appointment needed.
Electronic/digital submission of applications and other materials is encouraged whenever feasible. Consult the Staff Directory or the specific subject page for staff contact information.
Mailed items can be sent to:
CITY OF PORTSMOUTH
PLANNING DEPARTMENT ATTN: (STAFF MEMBER NAME)
801 CRAWFORD STREET
PORTSMOUTH, VA 23704
Credit card payments can now be accepted over the phone. Please call the Planning Department at 757-393-8836 for more information. Please note that a signed credit card authorization form is required to be submitted before a credit card payment can be processed.
-
Planning Department
Physical Address
801 Crawford Street
4th floor
Portsmouth, VA 23704
Phone: 757-393-8836Fax: 757-393-5223
Regulations
Chapter 40.2 of the Portsmouth City Code is the Zoning Ordinance. It is a set of regulations devoted to Land Use that defines:
- What uses are permitted in a zoning district
- How far buildings must be from the property lines
- How many parking spaces are needed for a particular use type
- Size and configuration parking spaces and lots
- Building heights
- Sign regulations
- Landscaping requirements
- Site plan review requirements
- Use permit regulations
- Other similar requirements
Zoning Permit
Most forms of development require the review and approval of a zoning permit prior to the issuance of a building permit, business license, or certificate of occupancy.
We can help you with ….
- Determining permitted uses
- Construction project requirements - including setbacks
- Minimum lot size requirements
- Fence Permits
- Sign Permits
- Business License Clearances
When staff is reviewing your project, other reviews might be triggered including Flood Zones, Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas, Historic Districts, and subdivision regulations.
In addition, other permits and clearances may be needed from other departments such at Permits and Inspections, Engineering, and the Commissioner of the Revenue. Contact those departments directly to discuss their requirements for your project.
Additional details regarding the Zoning Permit process can be found on this page. Zoning Permits.
Zoning Ordinance
Linked below is a PDF the adopted Portsmouth Zoning Ordinance.
Portsmouth Zoning Ordinance - Amended March 14, 2023
The Zoning Ordinance can also be accessed online via Municode.
Interactive Zoning Map
Click here to access the interactive, online Zoning Map Interactive Zoning Map
More information on the newly adopted Zoning Ordinance can be found on this page. Zoning Ordinance
"CAN DO" Help Video
Need a Zoning Clearance? Interested in development or obtaining a business license in the City of Portsmouth? Check out our informational video!
Planning Assistance Program
If you aren't quite ready to apply for a Zoning Permit and would like additional information and assistance with the process, check out the Planning Assistance Program page for more information.
Zoning Applications
Zoning Permits - Additional details regarding the Zoning Permit process can be found on this page. Zoning Permits
Zoning Verification Requests - Additional details regarding Zoning Verifications can be found on this page. Zoning Verification Requests
Business License Clearances - Applicants for Business License Zoning Clearances should follow the process outlined on this page. Business License Zoning Clearance
Zoning Sign Permits - Applicants for Zoning Sign Permits should follow the process outlined on this page. Zoning Sign Permits
Enforcement
Section 15 of the Code of Virginia provides for these regulations to be adopted and enforced.
Enforcement of violations is handled by staff of the Department of Permits and Inspections.