Town of Leesburg, Virginia
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Community Development FAQs
If you have a question that is not answered below, please email us with your question.
Businesses
- See the Town’s Sign Regulations webpage for permissible business signs, as well as Zoning Ordinance Article 15-Sign Regulations for the latest sign ordinance information. If your business is located in the Old and Historic District, please see the H-1 District Sign Guidelines.
The following uses may be permissible on a temporary basis, depending upon the Zoning District:
- Wayside stand
- Christmas tree sale
- Carnivals, fairs, festivals, and similar events
- Outdoor retail sales event
- Farmers market
- Meeting or rally
See Zoning Ordinance Section 9.5 for a list of procedures and criteria for temporary use evaluation.
- Yes. Grand opening and special sales events are permitted as listed in Zoning Ordinance section 9.6-Business Special Events.
eTRAKit
- eTRAKiT is open to everyone – residents, contractors, homeowners, businesses, realtors or insurance agents. Any user should choose the “Setup An Account” eTRAKiT option to create a Public Account. This account will allow the user to create an online application, view an existing permit or project, or schedule an inspection.
- If you forget your password or the password needs to be reset, please choose the “Forgot Password” option at the top of the eTRAKiT screen. Choose the PUBLIC REGISTERED option and specify your user name. After selecting RESET PASSWORD, you will receive an email a link to reset your password. If the User Name provided is not associated with an eTRAKiT account, an “unable to locate credentials” error message will display. For further assistance, please contact us.
If you forget your User Name, please choose the “Forgot Username” option at the top of the eTRAKiT screen. Choose the PUBLIC REGISTERED option and enter the Email address you used when registering your account. After selecting SEND USERNAME you will receive an email with your user name(s). If the email address provided is not associated with an eTRAKiT account, an “unable to locate email” error message will display. For further assistance, please contact us.
The eTRAKiT system is set to automatically unlock every 5 minutes. Wait a little while and try again. If after waiting 5 minutes and reattempting to login you are still unable to get in, please contact us.
- Yes, we offer several online payment methods: eCheck, Debit Card, Credit Card, PayPal, PayPal Credit, and Venmo. There is a service fee associated with each method. The service fee will be clearly identified along with the total amount to be paid on a final confirmation page.
Yes, in fact as you proceed through the application, your progress will automatically save. If you exit prior to completing application, it will appear as an “Open Permit or Project Application” on your dashboard. From there you can “Continue Application” or “Delete” it.
The following permits are currently available on the eTRAKiT portal, to name a few:
- Decks
- Sheds
- Patios
- Screened porches
- Pools
- New constructions
- Finishing a basement
- Commercial use/interior alterations
- Signs
- Be sure to enter the permit number exactly as it appears on your permit. The number needs to be entered in the “search for” field. For example, TLRESA2023-0005. It could also be that you need to search Projects instead of Permits.
- Not all permit and project types can be applied for using eTRAKiT. Contact the Town’s Department of Community Development - Customer Service Center if you are unsure how to apply for your permit or project.
Yes, you can request inspections in the eTRAKiT portal, but only for permit types currently supported in eTRAKiT that require inspections. You can also view your inspection results using eTRAKiT.
Yes, but only if the inspection has been scheduled.
I keep getting a pop-up that says, "Please verify you are not a robot" but there is no where to verify.
Make sure your window is scrolled all the way to the bottom and you should see the nCAPTCHA on the left with a check box for "I'm not a robot."
Excessive Occupancy
- For a confirmed violation, it may take more than 50 days to resolve.
- A shortage of parking in a residential area may not indicate a code violation.
- The Town's Zoning Ordinance addresses different aspects of excessive occupancy than the Loudoun County Building Maintenance Code:
- The Zoning Ordinance focuses on familial relationships of dwelling unit residents.
- The County's Building Code focuses on property maintenance elements and minimum floor area requirements.
Note that when a complainant is contacted by a Zoning Inspector to follow up on a complaint, the complainant contact information remains confidential.
An investigation is opened by a Zoning Inspector, which includes site visits and surveillance. If investigation shows that probable cause exists, a courtesy letter is sent to the property owner of the dwelling in question via postal mail to inquire regarding the complaint.
If a violation is verified through the investigation and inquiry, a Notice of Violation letter is sent to the property owner of the dwelling in question advising the owner to abate the violation. If the property owner cooperates with the Zoning Inspectors and abates the violation, the case is ultimately closed. If the owner does not cooperate, the Zoning Inspectors work with the Town Attorney to pursue legal action to resolve the violation.
How do I register an excessive occupancy complaint? Will my contact information remain confidential?
To report a suspected overcrowding violation, as supported in the Zoning Ordinance, please complete a Nuisance Complaint Request.
The complainant contact information remains confidential.
Limitations on occupancy are based on the minimum area requirements of Table 404.5 in Chapter 4 of the Virginia Maintenance Code.
- A person living alone.
- Any number of persons all of whom are related by blood, marriage or adoption, guardianship, or other duly-authorized custodial relationship, as verified by official public records such as driver’s license, birth or marriage certificates.
- Up to 4 persons not related to one another.
- Not more than 8 persons who are residents of a residential facility as defined by Section 15.2-2291 of the Code of Virginia, or handicapped as defined by the Fair Housing Act.
Excessive occupancy within the Town is defined in 2 ways:
- Under the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance, occupancy limitations are defined by familial relationship.
- Under the Virginia Property Maintenance Code, occupancy limitations are determined by the required minimum square footage of floor area, per resident of the dwelling (not familial relationship).
- Excessively occupied housing impacts parking, health, safety, and other quality of life issues within a neighborhood.
Floodplain Ordinance Amendments
- The need to purchase flood insurance is NOT determined by the Town. Only your lender can require you to purchase flood insurance based upon criteria and policy set by your specific lending institution.
No. However, the Town previously described minor floodplain more conservatively as a drainage area of 50 acres or greater in the Town’s Design and Construction Standards Manual. By revising the limit up to 100 acres, the Town is now consistent with Loudoun County with its designation of minor floodplain. The Floodplain Overlay District provides the Town with a tool to clarify, better define and manage floodplain limits as well as floodplain requirements already covered in our previous existing regulations.
What is the difference between FEMA's Flood Maps and the Town of Leesburg's Floodplain Overlay District?
FEMA’s Flood Maps show Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) typically associated with streams that drain 640 acres or more. The Town of Leesburg’s Floodplain Overlay District covers all of the SFHAs designated by FEMA as well as those areas subject to flooding along streams that drain less than 640 acres but greater than 100 acres. The Town’s Floodplain Overlay District regulates land use for SFHAs as Major Floodplain and those areas subject to flooding along streams draining between 100 and 640 acres as Minor Floodplain.
The U.S. Congress established the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) in 1968 allowing local communities who adopt and enforce a floodplain management program to qualify community land owners to purchase flood insurance as financial protection against flood losses. Through the NFIP federally backed flood insurance is available to homeowners, renters, and business owners as a protection against flood loss.
Gateway District
- The Gateway District was adopted by the Leesburg Town Council in 2020 as a zoning overlay district for the five significant historic corridors leading into the Old and Historic District. The purpose of the Gateway District is to ensure that development along these five corridors is respectful of the historic character and charm of Leesburg.
The Gateway District does not apply to single-family detached houses. On residential properties, the district is primarily focused on structures immediately adjacent to the road (fences, low walls, small accessory structures). For multi-family, single-family attached (townhome), or commercial properties, the District is focused on ensuring that the appearance of new development or redevelopment is respectful of the historic character of Leesburg along the five entry corridors leading to the Old and Historic District (OHD). As with the OHD, the Gateway District does not regulate allowed uses. Certificates of Appropriateness applications include, but are not limited to:
- New construction
- Alterations to existing structures
- Site work such as patios, retaining walls, fences, and light fixtures.
- Signage
- Demolition - in whole or in part
For additional information regarding application requirements, please contact or Preservation staff at 703-771-2765.
Please visit our application page. We accept electronic submissions via eTRAKiT. When submitting you will select the option for submitting a "project". Please ensure that the completed application form and required checklist materials are attached to your submission.
A link to the meeting schedule and application deadlines for the Board of Architectural Review can be found here.
If you have questions regarding submission requirements and procedures, please contact our Preservation staff at (703) 771-2765.
The Town has online resources available to help you determine whether your property is located in an architectural control district and what the underlying zoning for your property may be.
Old & Historic District Address Map (Interactive version coming soon!)
Interactive Gateway District Map
If you have additional questions or need assistance using our online tools, please feel free to reach out to staff by calling 703-771-2765.
No. The Gateway District is an architectural overlay. This means that the underlying zoning of your property is unchanged. Instead, the Gateway District provides architectural standards and guidelines for the main corridors leading into Leesburg’s Historic District to achieve the desired goal of preserving and enhancing the special character of greater Leesburg.
- The purpose of the Historic District is to preserve heritage resources and ensure their continuation. The Gateway District is more flexible and anticipates new development, or redevelopment, in a way which respects the character of the Historic District without having to meet the same standards for historic preservation. The Gateway District has separate Guidelines which are intended to assist property owners, developers, and designers with proposals in these corridors.
No. The Old and Historic District Guidelines and Gateway District Guidelines offer suggestions about the appropriateness of certain materials and Preservation staff can work with you to help you select appropriate materials or colors for your project. The Town does not maintain a list of acceptable or required contractors and is unable to recommend a contractor.
Please note that murals on private businesses or buildings are not permitted in the H-1 Old and Historic District. For additional information, please feel free to contact our Preservation staff at (703) 771-2765.
No. inclusion in this district does not necessarily mean your house or place of business is a historic structure. The Virginia Department of Historic Resources defines a historic structure as one having reached 50 years of age. So while your building may be “historic” by those standards, inclusion in the Gateway district is not the same as inclusion in the H-1 Old and Historic District. The intensity of the review is much greater in the Old and Historic District with a higher focus on preservation of historic resources and assurance that the quality of proposed design and usage of materials will complement the historic status of the H-1 District. There is also considerable attention given to impact on surrounding buildings. In the Gateway District, the focus is on ensuring protection of Leesburg’s uniqueness in Northern Virginia.
Historic Preservation
Historic Leesburg is a unique place in Northern Virginia with well-preserved neighborhoods and a thriving downtown business community. Property owners in the District are stewards of Leesburg's heritage resources. You are the keepers of this important history for the future generations. To protect these resources, property owners in the District submit applications for Certificates of Appropriateness to ensure that all exterior work is appropriate to the character of the property itself, the overall character of the District, and ensures the future preservation of Leesburg. For additional information regarding the purview of the Board of Architectural Review or the requirements for Certificates of Appropriateness please contact our Preservation staff:
Lauren Murphy, Preservation Manager
Debi Parry, Planner - Preservation
Heather Schmidt, Senior Planner - Preservation
The Old & Historic District (OHD) or H-1 District is Leesburg's locally designated historic district. Historic Districts are zoning overlay districts and are applied in addition to the underlying base zoning of your property which controls uses, setbacks, and other minimum standards. The OHD establishes architectural guidelines for ensuring appropriate development in the District and requires that all exterior alterations are reviewed and approved prior to construction. The OHD is primarily focused on the visual character of the District. It does not limit or restrict use, parking, lot coverage or other similar regulatory functions of the Town Code or Zoning Ordinance. Location within the OHD does NOT mean that your property is open to the public.
In Leesburg, the Board of Architectural Review is the Council-appointed body assigned with the preservation of the historic district, reviewing and approving Certificates of Appropriateness. Additionally, the Town has preservation staff members who support the Board of Architectural Review and have some limited administrative review authority for Certificates of Appropriateness. For additional information, please contact our Preservation staff at (703) 771-2765.
The Virginia Department of Historic Resources considers any structure older that 50 years old to be "historic".
- The Gateway District was adopted by the Leesburg Town Council in 2020 as a zoning overlay district for the five significant historic corridors leading into the Old and Historic District. The purpose of the Gateway District is to ensure that development along these five corridors is respectful of the historic character and charm of Leesburg.
The Gateway District does not apply to single-family detached houses. On residential properties, the district is primarily focused on structures immediately adjacent to the road (fences, low walls, small accessory structures). For multi-family, single-family attached (townhome), or commercial properties, the District is focused on ensuring that the appearance of new development or redevelopment is respectful of the historic character of Leesburg along the five entry corridors leading to the Old and Historic District (OHD). As with the OHD, the Gateway District does not regulate allowed uses. Certificates of Appropriateness applications include, but are not limited to:
- New construction
- Alterations to existing structures
- Site work such as patios, retaining walls, fences, and light fixtures.
- Signage
- Demolition - in whole or in part
For additional information regarding application requirements, please contact or Preservation staff at 703-771-2765.
Please visit our application page. We accept electronic submissions via eTRAKiT. When submitting you will select the option for submitting a "project". Please ensure that the completed application form and required checklist materials are attached to your submission.
A link to the meeting schedule and application deadlines for the Board of Architectural Review can be found here.
If you have questions regarding submission requirements and procedures, please contact our Preservation staff at (703) 771-2765.
The Town has online resources available to help you determine whether your property is located in an architectural control district and what the underlying zoning for your property may be.
Old & Historic District Address Map (Interactive version coming soon!)
Interactive Gateway District Map
If you have additional questions or need assistance using our online tools, please feel free to reach out to staff by calling 703-771-2765.
No. The Gateway District is an architectural overlay. This means that the underlying zoning of your property is unchanged. Instead, the Gateway District provides architectural standards and guidelines for the main corridors leading into Leesburg’s Historic District to achieve the desired goal of preserving and enhancing the special character of greater Leesburg.
- The purpose of the Historic District is to preserve heritage resources and ensure their continuation. The Gateway District is more flexible and anticipates new development, or redevelopment, in a way which respects the character of the Historic District without having to meet the same standards for historic preservation. The Gateway District has separate Guidelines which are intended to assist property owners, developers, and designers with proposals in these corridors.
No. The Old and Historic District Guidelines and Gateway District Guidelines offer suggestions about the appropriateness of certain materials and Preservation staff can work with you to help you select appropriate materials or colors for your project. The Town does not maintain a list of acceptable or required contractors and is unable to recommend a contractor.
Please note that murals on private businesses or buildings are not permitted in the H-1 Old and Historic District. For additional information, please feel free to contact our Preservation staff at (703) 771-2765.
- YES! The Historic District program does not review landscaping (such as trees, flowers, plantings), general maintenance and repairs conducted in-kind (meaning the same material, design, dimension, and color), or temporary fixtures like porch furniture, bird baths, or plastic flamingos. Before beginning a project, contact our preservation staff at (703) 771-2765 to determine if a Certificate of Appropriateness is needed.
Yes! Historic Districts are agents of change and seek to ensure that any changes are done sensitively and with respect to the historic character of the property and the District. Our Design Guidelines provide comprehensive information for property owners, architects, and designers for how to approach appropriate changes in the District.
Some changes will require a Certificate of Appropriateness approval while others may not. Please visit our Certificate of Appropriateness page or reach out to our Preservation Division staff at (703) 771-2765.
Please visit our application page. We accept electronic submissions via eTRAKiT. When submitting you will select the option for submitting a "project". Please ensure that the completed application form and required checklist materials are attached to your submission.
A link to the meeting schedule and application deadlines for the Board of Architectural Review can be found here. For additional assistance, please call 703-771-2765.
The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and the Virginia Landmarks Register (VLR) are honorary designations for highlighting the historic significance of places throughout the United States. These districts are administered by the National Parks Service and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources; however, they do not have any local regulation. The Leesburg Old and Historic District is listed in the NRHP and VLR with slightly different boundaries from that of the H-1 Old and Historic District overlay. For information on the benefits available, visit the VDHR website. Location within the National Register historic district does NOT mean that your property is open to the public.
I saw a yellow public hearing sign or received a notification letter, Do I need to appear at a BAR meeting?
Not necessarily. COAs reviewed by the Board of Architectural Review require a public hearing. The public hearings are advertised with the yellow placards and letters to adjacent property owners. This is your opportunity to address the Board if you have concerns about a project in the District. The BAR bases their decisions on the Historic District Guidelines which were adopted by the Town Council. The requirements of the Zoning Ordinance, such as allowed uses or required parking are not within the purview of the Board of Architectural Review.
If you have questions regarding an advertised case, please feel free to reach out to our Preservation staff by calling (703) 771-2765. Copies of the staff reports and application contents are posted on the Board of Architectural Review's webpage on the Thursday before the meeting. Additionally, the Board of Architectural Review's meeting calendar can be viewed here.
- Yes. Adding a property to the Historic District requires a Zoning Map amendment from the Town Council. Please contact the Department of Community Development at 703-771-2765 if you believe your property might be appropriate to add to the District.
- Yes. Properties that are not historic are considered "non-contributing" and can frequently use newer materials, alternative designs, and have greater flexibility during the review of their Certificate of Appropriateness applications. Typically these structures refer to the "new construction" chapter of the Guidelines.
All exterior construction projects in the Old and Historic District require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA). This includes but is not limited to:
- New Construction - including new additions to existing structures, decks, and new accessory buildings like sheds or garages.
- Alterations to Existing Structures - such as paint color changes, replacing roofs, siding, doors or windows, enlarging porches, or adding accessible ramps.
- Site Work - including patios, retaining walls, fences, and light fixtures.
- Signage
- Demolition - in whole or in part.
Some projects can be approved administratively by our Preservation staff while others require review and approval by the Board of Architectural Review. Before beginning a project, contact Preservation Division staff at (703) 771-2765 to determine if a COA is needed.
Your property does not need to look like your neighbor's property. Historic neighborhoods developed organically and it is that uniqueness that makes the Historic District such an important resource.
Each Certificate of Appropriateness is unique to the individual property. Design, color and materials will be evaluated based on the Old and Historic District Guidelines as well as the age, architectural style, and context of your particular structure.
For additional information, please contact our Preservation staff at (703) 771-2765.
- No. There is no separate or special historic district tax.
Home Based Businesses
- Yes, you will need both a Business License and a Home Occupation Permit to operate a business out of your home.
- Section 9.4.3.E.2 of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance states "No storage or display of goods shall be visible from outside the structure. In addition, no direct sales of products off display shelves or racks is permitted, but orders made by telephone or at a sales party may be filled on the premises."
- Section 9.4.3.E of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance states, "Members of the family occupying such dwelling may be employed on the premises in connection with the home occupation. One employee, other than members of the family occupying such dwelling, shall be permitted to work on-site given one additional off-street parking space is provided."
- Section 9.4.3.E of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance states "No signs accessory to such home occupation shall be displayed except as otherwise permitted or authorized by Town regulations."
- Home based child care or "Family Day Homes" are subject to the requirements of Section 9.4.7 of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance. Please visit our Home-Based Child Care page for more information.
Once issued, a home occupation permit remains in place so long as you maintain the same residence, renew your business license annually and adhere to the provisions of the permit and Section 9.4.3 of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance.
For additional information, please contact the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-771-2765.
Homestay Rentals
- A Homestay Rental, or short term residential rental, is defined in Va. Code § 15.2-983 as “the provision of a room or space that is suitable or intended for occupancy for dwelling, sleeping, or lodging purposes for a period of fewer than 30 consecutive days, in exchange for a charge for the occupancy.” This use is not considered a bed and breakfast, commercial inn, dormitory, hotel/motel, or tourist home.
- Yes, the Town of Leesburg Town Council adopted a Homestay Rental ordinance on October 27, 2020 as amended on November 29, 2022. (See Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance Section 9.3.11.3 Homestay)
- A Homestay Rental business may be operated only by the property owner or an authorized agent. The property owner or authorized agent must be available in person or by phone during the operation of the Homestay. The property owner shall be notified in writing of failed attempts to receive timely responses from the authorized agent. Failure to respond within 24 to 48 hours shall result in a zoning complaint subject to penalties.
- There are no residency requirements for the resident-owner.
What permits and licenses are required to operate a Homestay Rental business in the Town of Leesburg?
A Homestay Rental business is registered through a Homestay Home Occupation Permit issued by the Department of Community Development. A Homestay Home Occupation Permit should be applied for using the Town's eTRAKiT portal. Additionally, the property owner will need to obtain and maintain a Town of Leesburg Business License which is issued by the Town of Leesburg Department of Finance and Administrative Services. Failure to register the Homestay Rental use via a Home Occupation Permit shall result in penalties as described in Section 17.2.2.b (Civil Violations and Penalties) of the Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance. Unless and until the property owner pays the penalty and registers such use, the unregistered Homestay Rental use will be terminated immediately.- The Home Occupation Permit authorizing the Homestay Rental use will remain valid from January 1 (or other such date during the calendar year in which such permit is issued) through December 31 of that calendar year in which the permit was issued. Each subsequent year the Town will send a request by mail to re-register (without fee) the Homestay use. The owner has thirty (30) days to resubmit the Home Occupation Permit to the Zoning Administrator, or their designee.
- Yes. The Homestay Rental business will be subject to a pre-inspection prior to the issuance of the Homestay Home Occupation Permit.
- A maximum of six (6) lodgers per night may occupy the dwelling. This number shall be reduced to conform to the occupancy requirements of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code as necessary.
When the entire principal dwelling is used as a Homestay, no additional parking is required. When the basement or detached accessory structure is used as a Homestay, a minimum of one (1) off-street parking space, but not more than two (2), shall be provided on the property. A sketch plan to accompany the Home Occupation Permit submission shall identify the location of all required on-site parking (principal dwelling and homestay). Required parking may be satisfied by residential parking permits for principal dwellings within the H-1 Overlay (Old and Historic District).
The Zoning Administrator may modify the parking requirements outlined in Section 9.3.11.3.7.a-c if the permanent resident demonstrates that the perking requirements cannot be met because of:
- the exception size and/or shape of the lot; or
- environmental or engineering constraints on the lot; or
- special accessibility needs; or
- other extraordinary situations or conditions of the lot
The Zoning Administrator may attach conditions to any parking modification to ensure that the results of the modification will be in accordance with the purpose and intent of this ordinance section.
- Required parking may be satisfied by residential parking permits for principal dwellings within the H-1 Overlay Old and Historic District where required parking for the principal dwelling was lawfully established via on-street parking, and where the entire principal dwelling is operating as a Homestay. Please contact our Public Works Department at (703) 771-2791 to learn more about obtaining a residential parking permit.
- Yes, a Homestay may be permitted within a conforming accessory structure meeting all applicable codes, regulations, and ordinance for habitation.
- No. A Homestay Rental business may not have exterior signage. There shall be no evidence or indication visible from the exterior of the dwelling that the dwelling is being utilized in part or in whole for any purpose other than residential occupancy.
- The Homestay Rental ordinance is Section 9.3.11.3 Homestay of the Town of Leesburg Zoning Ordinance.
Who do I contact regarding the requirements to operate a Homestay Rental business in the Town of Leesburg?
For questions regarding the requirements to operate a Homestay Rental business, please contact Planning and Zoning 703-771-2765 or email permitting@leesburgva.gov.Who do I contact for concerns or complaints about Homestay Rental businesses in the Town of Leesburg?
For concerns or complaints about Homestay Rental businesses in the Town of Leesburg, please contact Planning and Zoning at 703-771-2765 or email permitting@leesburgva.gov.- For tax or business license related questions regarding Homestay Rental businesses, please contact the Finance & Administrative Services Department at 703-771-2723 or email businesslic@leesburgva.gov.
Land Development
- The boundaries of the H-2 Corridor Districtare highlighted on the Leesburg Zoning Map. If you require additional assistance in determining whether a property is located within this district, please contact Planning and Zoning Staff at 703-771-2765.
The Leesburg Old and Historic District was created over 50 years ago to protect properties within the historic downtown area of Leesburg. If you are unsure as to whether a particular property is located within the district, please view our Leesburg's Old and Historic District Map. You can utilize the tools at the bottom of the screen to zoom in to see the streets and addresses located within this area. If you require additional assistance, please contact Planning and Zoning staff at 703-771-2765.
- When a landowner wishes to develop property with a use (residential, commercial, etc.) that is not currently allowed by the property's zoning, the landowner may submit an application to amend the allowed land use. To view the status of active land use applications within the Town of Leesburg. You can search by location using LIAM Interactive Applications Map.
- You must submit a Pre-Application Conference Request Form and attend a Pre-Application Conference. The process is outlined on the Special Exception Flow Chart.
- You can find the required materials in the Rezoning Application Checklist. Three (3) copies of the reference material are required for the initial submission. Upon acceptance verification by staff, applicant will be notified to submit the remaining required copies.
- You must submit a Pre-Application Conference Request Form and attend a Pre-Application Conference. The process is outlined on the Rezoning Flow Chart.
With Internet access this information is just a click away! The Town of Leesburg uses an interactive mapping system known as WebLogis that allows users to access:
By selecting the available links, you will be able to retrieve such information as County tax records, property owner information, tax map numbers, Property Identification Numbers (PINs), most recent sales information, deed and recordation information. You will also be able to look at GIS mapping information that provides basic zoning information, property geometrics, topography and other site specific characteristics.
For additional information about how your property is zoned, call the Town's Planning and Zoning Department at 703-771-2765.
- The Town reviews the use and location of any proposal. Loudoun County reviews Statewide Uniform Building Code requirements on behalf of the Town. For example, when requesting a permit for a deck, the Town will need to review a final house location survey or plat, with proposed deck drawn to scale, to verify that the location of the deck is within the permitted setbacks from the rear and side property lines. The County will issue a building permit in order to carry out inspections to verify that the deck is structurally sound.
- Once you have gathered all of the components for a Site Plan Application, submit your application to the Central Plan Intake counter on the 2nd floor of Town Hall at 25 West Market Street in Leesburg. Before we can accept any application, the application must meet the Town’s Minimum Submission Checklist for your specific type of application. If you haven’t submitted a Site Plan application in Leesburg before, we recommend that you call us at 703-771-2740 to arrange a meeting with one of our Project Managers.
- Contact the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development at 703-777-0220; located at 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd floor, Leesburg, VA 20175.
- It depends in large measure on both the quality and the completeness of each submission as well as the size and degree of difficulty of the project. The first submission of any Site Plan or Construction Plan will be reviewed by Town Staff within 60 days. All subsequent submissions will be reviewed by Town Staff within 45 days. Town Staff works diligently with each applicant to reduce the number of total submissions to three or less to make the process predictable. However, additional submissions may be required for low quality or more challenging applications. It is also important to note that the Town does not dictate the amount of time an applicant may have an application between submissions.
A Town Zoning Permit is required for almost any type of construction within Town. For example, constructing new buildings, room additions, interior alterations, decks, patios and accessory structures such as sheds, all require a Zoning Permit.
However, fences erected in residential districts do not require a zoning permit unless you are located within the H-1 or H-2 Historic Overlay Districts. In these Districts, erection or modification of a fence requires Board of Architectural Review and/or Town Preservation Planner approval. There are also height restrictions and material requirements which apply to fences. Contact our Planning and Zoning Department for additional information.
- Contact the DPR Project Manager that was assigned to your project at the first submission of your Land Development Application. The Town has implemented a Project Manager/Review Team approach to processing Land Development Applications by the Department of Plan Review. The Project Manager is the single point of contact who knows about the status of your project at any time throughout the process. If you do not know who your Project Manager is, contact the Department of Plan Review at (703) 771-2740.
- For additional information regarding zoning permits and other related permitting, please contact the Department of Planning and Zoning,at 703-771-2765.
- Yes, so that the reviewers can determine exactly what has changed; and to prevent the reviewer from having to re-review what has not changed, allowing for a speedy review.
What is the procedure for adding revised "insert sheets" into previously submitted plans when insert sheets are requested by Town Staff?
When insert sheets are requested by the Department of Plan Review, the applicant must follow the following procedure to insert the revised sheets into the previously submitted plans.
• No insert sheets are allowed unless specifically requested by the Director of Plan Review or his Designee.
• The applicant must coordinated a specific time to come by the second floor Central Plan Intake counter to make the inserts with the DPR Project manager.
• Once a designated time has been arranged, the applicant must bring the revised insert sheets to the CPI counter for insertion into the previously submitted plan set.
• It is be the applicant’s responsibility to bring all necessary office supplies for doing the insertions such as a red pen, red marker, yellow marker, stapler, staple remover, or pair of pliers.
• If there are any questions during the inserting process, the applicant should ask for assistance at the 2nd Floor Central Plan Intake window before leaving.
• The CPI Staff will provide the applicant with the previously submitted plan set and direct the applicant to a work area where the applicant can make the inserts. Town Staff shall not be responsible for performing the actual insert work; do not just “drop off” insert sheets and leave.
• When the Applicant is finished they are responsible to adequately rebind each set of inserted plan and to return all updated plan sets to the CPI counter and inform a member of the DPR Staff that the insert process has been completed.What are the procedures for requesting DCSM Modifications when a specific design is unable to meet exact DCSM requirements?
A DCSM Modification request must be submitted in the form of a letter addressed to the Director of Plan Review demonstrating a need for the particular modification and must also include justification the request. If the modification is related to a waterline or sanitary sewer, the request must be forwarded to the Director of Utilities for consideration. Generally, DCSM Modification requests will be considered when an applicant demonstrates that all standard engineering design solutions have been exhausted.
In addition to the written request, each individual request must also be clearly identified on the cover sheet of the construction plans, with a number located in an inverted triangle citing each specific DCSM Section that is modified. These numbered inverted triangles must also be added to each individual sheet in the vicinity of each design item that requires the modification.- Currently, all approved Site Plans and Construction Plans are valid for as long as the bond is active. However, the Town’s current unwritten policy exceeds State Code allowances and could change at some date in the future. Town approvals for all other of plans and permits each have their own individual and differing time periods before expiration.
- You must provide at least:
• A completed Land Development Application form from the Department of Plan Review located on the 2nd floor of Town Hall, 25 West Market Street in Leesburg.
• Verification that a Preliminary Plat has been approved by the Planning Commission as well as Town Staff.
• A completed Minimum Submission Checklist.
• A set of Construction Drawings, which typically shows: required frontage improvements, zoning regulations and requirements, building footprints, travel ways, parking, drainage facilities, stormwater management, sanitary sewer lines, water lines, trails, lighting, landscaping, proposed and existing land contours, geotechnical recommendations, etc. The Construction Drawings must also include tabulations, calculations, profiles, details, notes and all other engineering and planning related items to verify the plan meets minimum Town codes and standards. The specific requirements are outlined in Division 3 of the Subdivision and Land Development Regulations.
• A plat prepared by a Professional Engineer or Land Surveyor which has been prepared in accordance with the Town’s Subdivision and Land Development Regulations and meets the minimum submission checklist requirements.
• A check for the appropriate fee made out to the Town of Leesburg.
• A Bond Estimate for all Public Improvements.
• Legal documentation as appropriate. At a minimum, this usually consists of a deed of subdivision, and/or a deed of easement and dedication. Sample forms may be obtained from the Department of Plan Review. - Once you have all of the components of a Subdivision Application package, submit it to the Central Plan Intake counter located on the 2nd floor of Town Hall located at 25 West Market Street in Leesburg. However, be advised that before any application can be accepted , it must comply with the Town’s Minimum Submission Checklist. Subdivision Regulations tend to provide for several alternatives which may be used to subdivide property. Therefore, it is recommended that applicants, especially those who have never submitted a subdivision application in the Town of Leesburg, arrange a meeting with one of the Plan Review Project Managers by calling 703-771-2740 to discuss potential subdivision options prior to the preparation of any subdivision plat or related construction plans.
- Excessive runoff could flood and erode your neighbor’s property. And you could be held liable for any damages. Stormwater runoff can also carry harmful pollutants, pesticides, fertilizer, trash, automotive fuel and lubricants, and animal waste to storm drains or directly into streams. It is very important to remember that anything that enters a storm drain system always ends up in water that is used for swimming, boating, fishing and, perhaps most importantly, drinking.
- Always check with the Town’s Department of Public Works at (703) 771-2790 before erecting a fence or any other structure within an easement. In most cases, you may construct a fence on your property as long as it does not interfere with the flow of stormwater or redirect the flow onto a neighbor's property. Permanent structures such as footings, brick piers or columns never allowed in easements.
- Per DCSM Section 5-380.3, maintenance access ways to stormwater management facilities must have a minimum width of 12 feet with a 2% maximum cross slope and a 12% maximum longitudinal slope. Maintenance access ways must be constructed of with shot rock, grasspave, or other similar material, and must be kept clear of all physical obstructions such as shrubs, trees, buildings and fences. Additional access requirements will also apply when a combined spillway has been used.
- An Impervious surface is any surface that does not allow water to be absorbed by the ground. Examples of impervious surfaces include roofs of buildings, homes, sheds, roadways, parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways. Compacted gravel and some dirt areas can also at times be considered impervious.
- Pervious Pavement is currently allowed only on private property for surfaces that are privately maintained. Article 5 of the DCSM requires that all Pervious Paving consist of either a pervious paver system or pervious concrete, but The Director of Plan Review can authorize other materials on a case-by-case base basis. Grasscrete, Grass Pave and other similar products can also be used.
- Per DCSM Section 5-512.5, highway embankments located within the Town Limits are not, in general, permitted to be used as dam embankments. However, under certain conditions and circumstances, special permission from the Director of Plan Review may be granted.
- Handrails must be incorporated into the plan design whenever vertical drops or heights of storm system endwalls exceed 18 inches. Handrails must be designed in accordance with VDOT standards and labeled accordingly on the drawings. Protective handrails must also be placed in all hazardous locations identified by Town Inspectors.
- You can fill out and submit the Plant Substitution Form.
Outdoor Dining Temporary Use Permit
Yes. A Temporary Use Permit is required to establish the temporary outdoor dining. Please note that the permit only applies to restaurants with outdoor seating that is not otherwise included in your Zoning Permit approval for business. Applications should be submitted through our eTRAKiT online portal. If you have questions regarding whether you need to apply for the Temporary Outdoor Dining Program, please contact our Zoning Staff at (703) 771-2765 or zoning@leesburgva.gov.
The Temporary Use Permit for outdoor dining only applies to existing eating establishments, which includes brewpubs and microbreweries.
Restaurants, brewpubs, and microbreweries in Downtown Leesburg who are interested in participating in the Sidewalk Dining program may find more information on the Sidewalk Dining webpage.
A Temporary Use Permit should be applied for through our eTRAKiT online portal. We strongly recommend contacting staff prior to submission in order to assist with required documentation. You can reach our Zoning Staff directly by calling 703-771-2765 or via zoning@leesburgva.gov.
Yes, there is a fee required for Temporary Use Permits in Leesburg. Please review our Fee Schedule for the current list of permit fees.
A Use Exhibit is required along with the permit application. The exhibit is a sketch, photo, or drawing that depicts the location of the temporary dining area, including the following:
- Access - The proposed outdoor dining area must be adjacent to the principal building and not separated by a vehicular travel aisle. Further, the exhibit must show that the appropriate fire and emergency access is maintained.
- Area - The proposed outdoor dining area may not take more than 50% of the existing on-site parking facilities.
- Barrier - Depiction of the required fence-like barrier, no less than 36-inches in height, or otherwise deemed appropriate by the Zoning Administrator.
- Parking Requirements - Parking for a Temporary Outdoor Dining Area is based on the number of proposed outdoor seats at a ratio of 1 space per every 4 seats.
- The exhibit should show how the required parking is provided on site, while maintaining all existing ADA spaces and access aisles.
- Businesses in the B-1/H-1 zoning district are exempt from this requirement.
- Seating Diagram - The arrangement of tables and number of seats.
- Tents - Depiction of the placement and size of the desired tent (if applicable).
- Access - The proposed outdoor dining area must be adjacent to the principal building and not separated by a vehicular travel aisle. Further, the exhibit must show that the appropriate fire and emergency access is maintained.
Outdoor seating capacity is limited to 50%, or half of the permitted occupancy of the eating establishment. This is confirmed by staff through submission of a photocopy or photo of the Occupancy Certificate for the business. Additionally, the temporary outdoor dining area shall not occupy more than 50% of the existing on-site parking.
- The temporary outdoor dining area must be located on a paved area, parking lot, or sidewalk immediately adjacent to the principal building.
- No more than 50% of the existing parking lot may be used and existing ADA parking spaces and access aisles must be maintained.
- Emergency access must also be maintained, to, in, and around the eating establishment.
- The temporary outdoor dining area must be located on a paved area, parking lot, or sidewalk immediately adjacent to the principal building.
Yes, participating restaurants may use one (1) tent that is less than 900 square feet in size for their temporary outdoor dining. The location and size of the tent should be shown on the exhibit drawing submitted through the Town's eTRAKiT portal as part of the submission package for the Temporary Outdoor Dining application.
- There are a few additional regulations that businesses should be aware of when applying for a Temporary Outdoor Dining Permit. A list of additional regulations to review have been included below:
- ADA Compliance - It is the applicant's responsibility to comply with all applicable ADA requirements.
- Beverage Control - Temporary Outdoor Dining Areas are subject to applicable Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Regulations.
- Noise Ordinance - Temporary Outdoor Dining Areas are subject to the Town's Noise Ordinance.
- Other Permits - Other permits administered by Loudoun County may be required. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure compliance with all applicable building or fire codes.
- ADA Compliance - It is the applicant's responsibility to comply with all applicable ADA requirements.
The Temporary Use Permit is valid for one year (365 days) from the date of issuance.
Please note that the Zoning Administrator may revoke a Temporary Use Permit for violation of the established standards for Temporary Outdoor Dining, Eating Establishments as outlined in Article 9, Section 9.5.4.K of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance.
Please visit our sidewalk dining permit page for additional information regarding sidewalk dining in downtown Leesburg.
Permits
- The boundaries of the H-2 Corridor Districtare highlighted on the Leesburg Zoning Map. If you require additional assistance in determining whether a property is located within this district, please contact Planning and Zoning Staff at 703-771-2765.
Historic Leesburg is a unique place in Northern Virginia with well-preserved neighborhoods and a thriving downtown business community. Property owners in the District are stewards of Leesburg's heritage resources. You are the keepers of this important history for the future generations. To protect these resources, property owners in the District submit applications for Certificates of Appropriateness to ensure that all exterior work is appropriate to the character of the property itself, the overall character of the District, and ensures the future preservation of Leesburg. For additional information regarding the purview of the Board of Architectural Review or the requirements for Certificates of Appropriateness please contact our Preservation staff:
Lauren Murphy, Preservation Manager
Debi Parry, Planner - Preservation
Heather Schmidt, Senior Planner - Preservation
The Leesburg Old and Historic District was created over 50 years ago to protect properties within the historic downtown area of Leesburg. If you are unsure as to whether a particular property is located within the district, please view our Leesburg's Old and Historic District Map. You can utilize the tools at the bottom of the screen to zoom in to see the streets and addresses located within this area. If you require additional assistance, please contact Planning and Zoning staff at 703-771-2765.
- Yes, you will need both a Business License and a Home Occupation Permit to operate a business out of your home.
- Section 9.4.3.E.2 of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance states "No storage or display of goods shall be visible from outside the structure. In addition, no direct sales of products off display shelves or racks is permitted, but orders made by telephone or at a sales party may be filled on the premises."
- Section 9.4.3.E of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance states, "Members of the family occupying such dwelling may be employed on the premises in connection with the home occupation. One employee, other than members of the family occupying such dwelling, shall be permitted to work on-site given one additional off-street parking space is provided."
- See the Town’s Sign Regulations webpage for permissible business signs, as well as Zoning Ordinance Article 15-Sign Regulations for the latest sign ordinance information. If your business is located in the Old and Historic District, please see the H-1 District Sign Guidelines.
The following uses may be permissible on a temporary basis, depending upon the Zoning District:
- Wayside stand
- Christmas tree sale
- Carnivals, fairs, festivals, and similar events
- Outdoor retail sales event
- Farmers market
- Meeting or rally
See Zoning Ordinance Section 9.5 for a list of procedures and criteria for temporary use evaluation.
- Yes. Grand opening and special sales events are permitted as listed in Zoning Ordinance section 9.6-Business Special Events.
Is a Town Zoning Permit required if all I am doing is repair work (e.g., installing additional electrical sockets, or replacing my hot water tank or leaking water pipes)?
If there is no work being done to the exterior of the building, there is probably no Town Permit required. Typically, the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development handles these types of improvements and/or repairs, issuing all related Health Department, Electrical, Gas, Plumbing and Mechanical Permits. For more information, contact the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development at 703-777-0220; located at 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd floor, Leesburg, VA 20175.With Internet access this information is just a click away! The Town of Leesburg uses an interactive mapping system known as WebLogis that allows users to access:
By selecting the available links, you will be able to retrieve such information as County tax records, property owner information, tax map numbers, Property Identification Numbers (PINs), most recent sales information, deed and recordation information. You will also be able to look at GIS mapping information that provides basic zoning information, property geometrics, topography and other site specific characteristics.
For additional information about how your property is zoned, call the Town's Planning and Zoning Department at 703-771-2765.
- The Town reviews the use and location of any proposal. Loudoun County reviews Statewide Uniform Building Code requirements on behalf of the Town. For example, when requesting a permit for a deck, the Town will need to review a final house location survey or plat, with proposed deck drawn to scale, to verify that the location of the deck is within the permitted setbacks from the rear and side property lines. The County will issue a building permit in order to carry out inspections to verify that the deck is structurally sound.
- Contact the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development at 703-777-0220; located at 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd floor, Leesburg, VA 20175.
A Town Zoning Permit is required for almost any type of construction within Town. For example, constructing new buildings, room additions, interior alterations, decks, patios and accessory structures such as sheds, all require a Zoning Permit.
However, fences erected in residential districts do not require a zoning permit unless you are located within the H-1 or H-2 Historic Overlay Districts. In these Districts, erection or modification of a fence requires Board of Architectural Review and/or Town Preservation Planner approval. There are also height restrictions and material requirements which apply to fences. Contact our Planning and Zoning Department for additional information.
All Zoning Permit applications can be applied for online through our eTRAKiT portal.
In the case of a deck, shed or small building addition:
- Location survey/property plat with the addition or accessory structure (drawn to scale) on the plat.
- Depending upon the actual improvement(s), a Minor Site Plan or a Site Plan Waiver may also be required.
- A signed Property Owner's Consent Form.
- The appropriate fee for the type of Zoning Permit requested.In the case of interior alterations such as finishing a basement, or remodeling a kitchen, please provide:
- A drawing indicating the new improvements. Interior alteration drawings do not have to be professionally prepared.- A signed Property Owner's Consent Form.
- The required fee for each permit requested.
Also, if your property is located in the H-1 or H-2 Historic Districts, improvements will also be subject to the review and approval of the Board of Architectural Review (BAR).
Please visit our application page. We accept electronic submissions via eTRAKiT. When submitting you will select the option for submitting a "project". Please ensure that the completed application form and required checklist materials are attached to your submission.
A link to the meeting schedule and application deadlines for the Board of Architectural Review can be found here.
If you have questions regarding submission requirements and procedures, please contact our Preservation staff at (703) 771-2765.
- YES! The Historic District program does not review landscaping (such as trees, flowers, plantings), general maintenance and repairs conducted in-kind (meaning the same material, design, dimension, and color), or temporary fixtures like porch furniture, bird baths, or plastic flamingos. Before beginning a project, contact our preservation staff at (703) 771-2765 to determine if a Certificate of Appropriateness is needed.
The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and the Virginia Landmarks Register (VLR) are honorary designations for highlighting the historic significance of places throughout the United States. These districts are administered by the National Parks Service and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources; however, they do not have any local regulation. The Leesburg Old and Historic District is listed in the NRHP and VLR with slightly different boundaries from that of the H-1 Old and Historic District overlay. For information on the benefits available, visit the VDHR website. Location within the National Register historic district does NOT mean that your property is open to the public.
Rezoning & Special Exceptions
- When a landowner wishes to develop property with a use (residential, commercial, etc.) that is not currently allowed by the property's zoning, the landowner may submit an application to amend the allowed land use. To view the status of active land use applications within the Town of Leesburg. You can search by location using LIAM Interactive Applications Map.
- You must submit a Pre-Application Conference Request Form and attend a Pre-Application Conference. The process is outlined on the Special Exception Flow Chart.
- You can find the required materials in the Rezoning Application Checklist. Three (3) copies of the reference material are required for the initial submission. Upon acceptance verification by staff, applicant will be notified to submit the remaining required copies.
- You must submit a Pre-Application Conference Request Form and attend a Pre-Application Conference. The process is outlined on the Rezoning Flow Chart.
Site Plans & Subdivisions
What is the procedure for adding revised "insert sheets" into previously submitted plans when insert sheets are requested by Town Staff?
When insert sheets are requested by the Department of Plan Review, the applicant must follow the following procedure to insert the revised sheets into the previously submitted plans.
• No insert sheets are allowed unless specifically requested by the Director of Plan Review or his Designee.
• The applicant must coordinated a specific time to come by the second floor Central Plan Intake counter to make the inserts with the DPR Project manager.
• Once a designated time has been arranged, the applicant must bring the revised insert sheets to the CPI counter for insertion into the previously submitted plan set.
• It is be the applicant’s responsibility to bring all necessary office supplies for doing the insertions such as a red pen, red marker, yellow marker, stapler, staple remover, or pair of pliers.
• If there are any questions during the inserting process, the applicant should ask for assistance at the 2nd Floor Central Plan Intake window before leaving.
• The CPI Staff will provide the applicant with the previously submitted plan set and direct the applicant to a work area where the applicant can make the inserts. Town Staff shall not be responsible for performing the actual insert work; do not just “drop off” insert sheets and leave.
• When the Applicant is finished they are responsible to adequately rebind each set of inserted plan and to return all updated plan sets to the CPI counter and inform a member of the DPR Staff that the insert process has been completed.- Currently, all approved Site Plans and Construction Plans are valid for as long as the bond is active. However, the Town’s current unwritten policy exceeds State Code allowances and could change at some date in the future. Town approvals for all other of plans and permits each have their own individual and differing time periods before expiration.
Zoning
- The boundaries of the H-2 Corridor Districtare highlighted on the Leesburg Zoning Map. If you require additional assistance in determining whether a property is located within this district, please contact Planning and Zoning Staff at 703-771-2765.
Our Interactive Zoning Map allows you to enter an address to find the zoning district of any property within the Town. You can find additional information on the Crescent Design District page.
For assistance, please contact the Department of Community Development at 703-771-2765.
The Old & Historic District (OHD) or H-1 District is Leesburg's locally designated historic district. Historic Districts are zoning overlay districts and are applied in addition to the underlying base zoning of your property which controls uses, setbacks, and other minimum standards. The OHD establishes architectural guidelines for ensuring appropriate development in the District and requires that all exterior alterations are reviewed and approved prior to construction. The OHD is primarily focused on the visual character of the District. It does not limit or restrict use, parking, lot coverage or other similar regulatory functions of the Town Code or Zoning Ordinance. Location within the OHD does NOT mean that your property is open to the public.
In Leesburg, the Board of Architectural Review is the Council-appointed body assigned with the preservation of the historic district, reviewing and approving Certificates of Appropriateness. Additionally, the Town has preservation staff members who support the Board of Architectural Review and have some limited administrative review authority for Certificates of Appropriateness. For additional information, please contact our Preservation staff at (703) 771-2765.
The Leesburg Old and Historic District was created over 50 years ago to protect properties within the historic downtown area of Leesburg. If you are unsure as to whether a particular property is located within the district, please view our Leesburg's Old and Historic District Map. You can utilize the tools at the bottom of the screen to zoom in to see the streets and addresses located within this area. If you require additional assistance, please contact Planning and Zoning staff at 703-771-2765.
Once issued, a home occupation permit remains in place so long as you maintain the same residence, renew your business license annually and adhere to the provisions of the permit and Section 9.4.3 of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance.
For additional information, please contact the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-771-2765.
- See the Town’s Sign Regulations webpage for permissible business signs, as well as Zoning Ordinance Article 15-Sign Regulations for the latest sign ordinance information. If your business is located in the Old and Historic District, please see the H-1 District Sign Guidelines.
- To report an animal complaint, please complete a Nuisance Complaint Request.
- To report an abandoned or inoperable vehicle, please complete a Nuisance Complaint Request.
The following uses may be permissible on a temporary basis, depending upon the Zoning District:
- Wayside stand
- Christmas tree sale
- Carnivals, fairs, festivals, and similar events
- Outdoor retail sales event
- Farmers market
- Meeting or rally
See Zoning Ordinance Section 9.5 for a list of procedures and criteria for temporary use evaluation.
- Yes. Grand opening and special sales events are permitted as listed in Zoning Ordinance section 9.6-Business Special Events.
Is a Town Zoning Permit required if all I am doing is repair work (e.g., installing additional electrical sockets, or replacing my hot water tank or leaking water pipes)?
If there is no work being done to the exterior of the building, there is probably no Town Permit required. Typically, the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development handles these types of improvements and/or repairs, issuing all related Health Department, Electrical, Gas, Plumbing and Mechanical Permits. For more information, contact the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development at 703-777-0220; located at 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd floor, Leesburg, VA 20175.With Internet access this information is just a click away! The Town of Leesburg uses an interactive mapping system known as WebLogis that allows users to access:
By selecting the available links, you will be able to retrieve such information as County tax records, property owner information, tax map numbers, Property Identification Numbers (PINs), most recent sales information, deed and recordation information. You will also be able to look at GIS mapping information that provides basic zoning information, property geometrics, topography and other site specific characteristics.
For additional information about how your property is zoned, call the Town's Planning and Zoning Department at 703-771-2765.
- The Town reviews the use and location of any proposal. Loudoun County reviews Statewide Uniform Building Code requirements on behalf of the Town. For example, when requesting a permit for a deck, the Town will need to review a final house location survey or plat, with proposed deck drawn to scale, to verify that the location of the deck is within the permitted setbacks from the rear and side property lines. The County will issue a building permit in order to carry out inspections to verify that the deck is structurally sound.
- Contact the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development at 703-777-0220; located at 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd floor, Leesburg, VA 20175.
A Town Zoning Permit is required for almost any type of construction within Town. For example, constructing new buildings, room additions, interior alterations, decks, patios and accessory structures such as sheds, all require a Zoning Permit.
However, fences erected in residential districts do not require a zoning permit unless you are located within the H-1 or H-2 Historic Overlay Districts. In these Districts, erection or modification of a fence requires Board of Architectural Review and/or Town Preservation Planner approval. There are also height restrictions and material requirements which apply to fences. Contact our Planning and Zoning Department for additional information.
- For additional information regarding zoning permits and other related permitting, please contact the Department of Planning and Zoning,at 703-771-2765.
All Zoning Permit applications can be applied for online through our eTRAKiT portal.
In the case of a deck, shed or small building addition:
- Location survey/property plat with the addition or accessory structure (drawn to scale) on the plat.
- Depending upon the actual improvement(s), a Minor Site Plan or a Site Plan Waiver may also be required.
- A signed Property Owner's Consent Form.
- The appropriate fee for the type of Zoning Permit requested.In the case of interior alterations such as finishing a basement, or remodeling a kitchen, please provide:
- A drawing indicating the new improvements. Interior alteration drawings do not have to be professionally prepared.- A signed Property Owner's Consent Form.
- The required fee for each permit requested.
Also, if your property is located in the H-1 or H-2 Historic Districts, improvements will also be subject to the review and approval of the Board of Architectural Review (BAR).
The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and the Virginia Landmarks Register (VLR) are honorary designations for highlighting the historic significance of places throughout the United States. These districts are administered by the National Parks Service and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources; however, they do not have any local regulation. The Leesburg Old and Historic District is listed in the NRHP and VLR with slightly different boundaries from that of the H-1 Old and Historic District overlay. For information on the benefits available, visit the VDHR website. Location within the National Register historic district does NOT mean that your property is open to the public.