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- Development Requirements and Processes
Development Requirements and Processes
The Development Code and Procedures Manual (PDF) outlines the process and procedures for submitting development applications as provided in the Development Code (5.2.9) (PDF).
- Pre-Application Conference: Before submitting a Development Review application, an applicant must schedule a pre-application conference with the Administrator to discuss the procedures, standards, and regulations required for approval.
- Timing: The initial review period for an application accepted for Development Review is 40 days. The next two rounds of review will each be completed within 30 days from the date the application is accepted. Any additional rounds of review after will be 14 days once the application is accepted. Projects requiring relief from development code requirements, such as Administrative Modifications, Variances, Special Use Permits, or Special Exceptions, should account for additional time to complete the Development Review process
- Applicability: Processes for different project activities including New construction, Additions, Site modifications, and some changes of use. Development Review is not required for a change of use provided that: No additional site access, or alteration of existing site access is recommended by the City; and/or no additional site access, or alteration of existing site access is proposed.
- Application Submittal Requirements: Following the pre-application conference, an applicant may start the application process. To begin, a complete application form, required plans, and review fees must be filed with the Administrator via the online Cityworks portal. Other general submittal requirements for all applications are listed in 5.2.1. Common Review Procedures (PDF) and found in the Development Review Procedures Manual.
- Development Plan and Final Site Plan Sequencing: A Development Plan and Final Site Plan are required for all projects that require Development Review. Development Plans and Final Site Plans may be reviewed simultaneously or may be phased. An applicant may choose to apply for Development Plan approval and then apply for Final Site Plan approval and building approval to start building construction.
- Final Site Plan Requirements: Upon approval of a Development Plan, applications for review and approval of infrastructure permits required by separate Chapters of the City of Charlottesville Code and the Standards and Design Manual may be prepared and submitted. The Administrator will not sign any Final Site Plan, unless and until final plans and approvals required by the City Code of Ordinances Chapter 10, Water Protection have been obtained. Once a Development Plan is approved, it is valid for a period of 5 years, as specified in the Code of Virginia § 15.2-2260.
- Relief from Development Requirements: Criteria and processes for relief from development requirements, including Administrative Modifications, Board of Zoning Appeals Variances, and City Council Special Uses Permits and Special Exceptions.
- When is a Development Plan required?
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An approved Development Plans is required for all New Construction, Additions, Site Modifications, and any Change of Use that requires additional site access or changes to the existing site access as determined by the City’s Traffic Engineer.
- What is the difference between a Development Plan and Final Site Plan?
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A Development Plan contains elements of a proposed project that need to be reviewed for Zoning compliance within Chapter 34 of the Development Code. Proposed use(s), setbacks, landscaping, and height are some examples of elements reviewed for Zoning compliance. Most Development Plans will only need to be one or two sheets but will need to detailed enough for staff to review all horizontal and vertical Zoning elements.
A Final Site Plan is a collection of approved subplans that permits a proposed development to move forward into construction. A Development Plan is just one subplan of a Final Site Plan. Other subplans that might be required include: a Stormwater Management Plan, an Erosion & Sediment Control Plan, a Public Improvement Plan, and a Traffic Demand Management Plan and must meet requirements of separate Chapters of the City of Charlottesville Code and the City’s Standards and Design Manual.
Development Plans and Final Site Plans may be reviewed simultaneously or may be phased. An applicant may choose to apply for Development Plan approval and engineering approval, and then apply for Final Site Plan approval and building approval in order to start building construction.
- What is a By-Right Development?
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A by-right development is a proposed project that meets all requirements of Chapter 34 of the Development Code without alteration, modification, or discretionary approval.
- What is Discretionary Approval?
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Discretionary approval or a non-by-right development is any proposed project that seeks alteration or modification from the requirements of Chapter 34 of the Development Code through a Special Use Permit, Special Exception Permit, Administrative Modification, proffered Rezoning, or Waiver.
- What can be done on my property or other property in the City?
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The Development Code outlines by-right uses and uses that require discretionary approval in Section 34-3.2.2. The permitted uses are based on the zoning district of the property on the adopted Zoning Map
- Where can I learn more about potential developments in my neighborhood?
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The Development Viewer allows you to search and view active applications through a map interface.
- Can I subdivide my property?
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The Development Code outlines subdivision requirements in Division 6 Subdivision. The minimum requirements for new lots or changes to existing lots are based on the zoning district of the property on the adopted Zoning Map and detailed under each zoning district in Division 2 Zoning Districts.
- How do I report a noise violation?
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Chapter 16 of the City’s Code of Ordinances regulates noise control and provides authority to the Charlottesville Police Department to enforce regulations. Please contact the Police Non-Emergency line at (434) 970-3280 to report suspected violations.