The City is currently in the process of updating its Comprehensive Plan. The compilation and analysis of residents' input on Virginia Beach's existing conditions will be crucial for planning the city's growth over the next several years. Take the opportunity to explore the planning areas that support the diverse lifestyles in our city.
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The Virginia Beach Planning Department offers over-the-counter services for zoning, trade, and *small-scale building permits meeting the criteria below to walk-in customers on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. On Mondays and Thursdays, over-the-counter services are available by appointment. Please call (757) 385-4621 and press 0 to be directed to the appropriate team.
Hard copy applications can be dropped off at the front counter Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or anytime in the drop box outside the main entrance.
Save yourself a trip! Use our online application system any time to apply for a permit, submit an application, or request an inspection.
Counter Hours of Operation
Monday: Drop-off available, or services by appointment only. Call (757) 385-4621 and press option 0 or email planningcustomerservice@vbgov.com.
Tuesday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.*
Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.*
Thursday: Drop-off available, or services by appointment only. Call (757) 385-4621 and press option 0 or email planningcustomerservice@vbgov.com.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.*
*4:30 closing times are required to allow for payment processing and end-of-day billing to be completed by 5 p.m.
Counter Review Requirements
Commercial and residential building plan sets must meet the following criteria in order to be accepted at the counter:
Residential
- Additions with a work area of 500 square feet or less
- Alterations with a work area of 500 square feet or less
- Accessory structures with a work area of 500 square feet or less
- Plan sets may not exceed five pages
Commercial
- Interior and exterior alterations with a work area of 2,500 square feet or less
- No change of use
- No A, I, or H uses
- Plan sets may not exceed five pages
Larger commercial and residential building projects that do not meet the criteria above must be submitted online. Review services for online submissions take three business days for the initial review and for subsequent revisions.
Short-Term Rentals
Learn more about what's required to operate a short-term rental in Virginia Beach.
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Latest News
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November 1, 2024
Temporary Road Closure on Atlantic Avenue Nov. 4
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June 18, 2024
Seatack Historic District Listed in National Register of Historic Places
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May 3, 2024
Public Invited to Provide Input on the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Five open-house-style meetings scheduled in May
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March 28, 2024
April 26 Symposium to Focus on Ways to Protect and Preserve the North Landing River and Albemarle Sound
Registration is just $30 and attendees can earn continuing education credits.