The department protects and preserves the safety and welfare of Virginia Beach residents and visitors by upholding codes, policies and regulations in all functions of community design and development.
Planning & Community Development
Virginia Relay TTY
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.
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.
Monday: Drop-off available, or services by appointment only. Call (757) 385-4621.
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.
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.
Commercial and residential building plan sets must meet the following criteria in order to be accepted at the counter:
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.
Learn more about what's required to operate a short-term rental in Virginia Beach.
