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 now offers over-the-counter services 5 days a week for zoning, trade and *small-scale building permits meeting the criteria below to walk-in customers. 

Counter hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.*, Monday through Friday.

Save yourself a trip! Use our online application system any time to apply for a permit, submit an application or request an inspection.

*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

  • April 21, 2025

    Virginia Beach Planning and Public Utilities Departments Relocating to Municipal Center Campus

    Satellite Treasurer’s Office co-located with Planning Department at Sabre Street to close permanently.

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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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