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Zoning & Subdivision Code Determinations and Updates

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Zoning Administrator Determinations

The Code of Virginia empowers the Zoning Administrator to interpret the Zoning Ordinance when there is a need for clarity in the application and administration of zoning regulations, either generally or as applied to a specific property.  To this end, the Zoning Administrator issues written determinations and advice memorializing such interpretations and findings of fact.

See Section 18-841 for information on how to request or appeal a determination.
 

Zoning and Subdivision Code Updates

Town Council adopted an update to the zoning and subdivision code on October 23, 2023, that went into effect on January 1, 2024.  The new Chapter 18 replaced the previous Chapters 17 and 18.

The zoning and subdivision code is a dynamic document, subject to regular reviews and updates. As code amendments are drafted, they will be posted here:

  • Accessory Living Units (ALU) - Click here to view the draft code amendments

    Amendments to Chapter 18 are proposed that would allow an owner who lives on a Vienna property that is zoned for single-unit detached housing (RS-10, RS-12.5, or RS-16) to establish a secondary residential unit (an “accessory living unit”, or ALU) on that property as long as the ALU is structurally part of or connected to, and clearly subordinate to, the single-unit detached dwelling unit.

    If adopted, an ALU could be approved administratively for a Certificate of Occupancy if the application met all listed regulations, which would include, but are not limited to, that 1) no more than one ALU per property, 2) the ALU is no more than 800 square feet or 40% of the floor area of the principal residence (whichever is smaller), 3) the ALU has no more than 2 bedrooms. 4) all rental agreements must be for at least 30 days. An ALU could be up to 1,000 square feet if the Board of Zoning Appeals were to approve and application for a Conditional Use Permit. Approval of an ALU must include, on site, one parking space per bedroom (or sleeping quarters) in addition to the spaces required for the principal residence.

  • Outdoor Lighting Regulations - During the code update in 2023, Council determined that further discussion was needed to address lighting standards. The Town has contracted with lighting consultants to assist in developing standards for the Town. Click here to learn more.

  • "Pinned List" Updates - During the code update process in 2023, certain topics were identified as "pinned" items, that for various reasons, would need to be addressed after the updated Chapter 18 was adopted. The first set of proposed amendments were presented to Town Council on October 7, 2024. They are scheduled for public hearing with the Planning Commission on December 9, 2024. Click here to view the documents from the October meeting with Town Council.

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