Board of Zoning Appeals Bulletin

For further information, please contact the Zoning Administration by phone at 757-382-8454, or by email at develop-permits@cityofchesapeake.net.

What is the Board of Zoning Appeals?

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) is a 5-member quasi-judicial body appointed by the Circuit Court charged with a specific limited mission as defined under Section 15.2-2309 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended. The Board is authorized to hear and decide appeals from any order, requirement, decision or determination made by an administrative officer in the administration or enforcement of those items covered under Article 7 of Title 15.2 of the Code of Virginia. In addition to this review authority, the Board may grant certain variances from the requirements of the Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance, provided a hardship, as narrowly defined under Section 15.2-2201 of the Code of Virginia, is clearly evident.

What are the specific powers of the Board of Zoning Appeals?

• To hear and decide appeals from the decisions or determinations of the zoning administrator in the administration or enforcement of the zoning ordinance.

• To authorize variances, from the strict application of the terms of the zoning ordinance.

• To hear and decide applications for interpretation of the district map where there is any uncertainty as to the location of a district boundary.

How do I apply for a variance or an appeal?

Variance and appeal applications use the same form and can be downloaded (in pdf format) here. Instructions, filing fees and general information are included in the form. If you have any questions, please call the Board of Zoning Appeals Secretary at 757-382-6466 or 382-8454.

Resources:

• Board of Zoning Appeals Application Package
• Board of Zoning Appeals Schedule & Deadlines
• Board of Zoning Appeals Membership Roster
• City of Chesapeake Zoning Ordinances