The Department of Planning and Community Development supports the land use planning and development process in the City of Virginia Beach.  Our mission is:

• to ensure the orderly use and reuse of land, and
• to assist in maintaining and enhancing the economic and aesthetic viability and physical function of the City.

We accomplish these goals through long range planning, special planning studies, support for the Planning Commission and other planning related Boards and Commissions, development and building review, permit issuance, site and building inspection, and zoning enforcement.

The Planning Department is led by William "Jack" Whitney, Jr., AICP and consists of six divisions:

Comprehensive Planning
Responsible for the Comprehensive Plan as well as several area and corridor plans and special planning studies.

Current Planning
Provides staff support for several Boards and Commissions, including the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Wetlands Board, and the Chesapeake Bay Board. Zoning Administration oversees and enforces the Zoning Ordinance.

Development Services Center
Assists with the City's land development review and approval processes.

Environmental Management Center
Develops environmental programs, assists City staff in meeting environmental mandates, and promotes community environmental education.

Management & Support
Provides administrative support services for the Planning Department.

Permits & Inspections
Administers the Uniform Statewide Building Code and associated laws and ordinances.