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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Planning Department: Join Our Team! Apply for a job in Planning


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

Short-Term Rentals

Learn more about what's required to operate a short-term rental in Virginia Beach.

Short-term Rentals

Latest News

  • 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.

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  • January 3, 2024

    Seatack Historic District Achieves Listing in Virginia Landmarks Register

    The Seatack community in Virginia Beach is now listed as a historic district in the Virginia Landmarks Register.

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