Rezoning & Special Exception applications can now be submitted through our eTRAKiT online application portal.  

Rezonings

A Rezoning application is a request to change a property's zoning, the designated use district, as shown on the Town's Zoning Map. Rezonings can also be filed for revisions to an approved concept development plan or for amendments to proffers offered by the applicant as part of an approved development application. 

Rezoning applications can be initiated by the Town Council, but in most cases they are filed on behalf of the property owner or agent thereof. Occasionally, a Rezoning application may also be accompanied by a Town Plan amendment application or a Special Exception application. 

After review by staff, Rezoning applications are reviewed by the Planning Commission who will issue a recommendation to be considered by the Town Council through their decision process. The Town Council has discretionary power to approve or deny any application. 

Please refer to the Rezoning Application Procedural Manual for more detail of the review and time frames of processing Rezoning applications or view our frequently asked questions. Our Fee Schedule provides information regarding the costs associated with processing a Rezoning application. For additional information, please contact the Department of Community Development at 703-771-2765.

Current rezoning applications can be viewed on our LIAM interactive applications map. 

Special Exceptions

A Special Exception or Minor Special Exception application is a request to permit certain uses not allowed "by-right". These uses may not be permitted "by-right" because of the potential for adverse impacts upon adjacent properties and the health, safety or welfare of the community due to their nature, design or location.

Special Exception applications are initially reviewed by staff, with a recommendation to the Town Council made by the Planning Commission; however, the Minor Special Exception process does not require review by the Planning Commission prior to the Town Council public hearing. The Town Council has discretionary power to approve or deny any application. 

Please refer to the Special Exception Application Procedural Manual for more detail regarding the review process for Special Exception applications or view our frequently asked questions. Our Fee Schedule provides information regarding the costs associated with processing a Special Exception application. For additional information, please contact the Department of Community Development at 703-771-2765.

Current special exception applications can be viewed on our LIAM interactive applications map.