Virtual Planning Department

Out of an abundance of caution due to novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), all City of Portsmouth Planning Department offices are currently physically closed to the public. However, our staff is still working and is here to assist you virtually. The public is encouraged to use the city’s online options for services.

We will be updating this page on a regular basis to provide information on our services including the operation of the various Boards and Commissions. See the box below for the status of the Boards and Commissions. 

All Boards and Commissions are now accepting applications. Please see details below for individual Board and Commission dates and deadlines. Staff will continue to be processing administrative reviews and approvals.

All meetings will be held virtually unless otherwise indicated.

The public is encouraged to contact staff via email or phone. Staff Directory

The Planning Department may be reached by phone at 757-393-8836.

Page last updated: August 7, 2020

Status of Boards and Commissions

NameStatus
Next Scheduled Meeting


Application Deadline
Virtual Meeting Link
Click the link to visit the meeting
Meeting Phone Dial-in Information
Meeting Time
Planning CommissionNow accepting applications

August 18, 2020

June 19, 2020


804-294-1932 Conference ID: 719 113 830#
Members of the public may provide comments on specific agenda items by sending an email to planningcommission@portsmouthva.gov prior to the hearing date. Or by calling 804-294-1932 Conf. ID: 719 113 830# during the meeting. 
Board of Zoning AppealsNow accepting applicationsAugust 26, 2020July 17, 2020TBD
TBD
4:30pm
Parties wishing to provide comments on specific agenda items, may send comments via fax to 757-393-5223, or by mail to the Zoning Office, 801 Crawford Street Portsmouth, Virginia 23704-3822, or by email to millhousek@portsmouthva.gov. Please submit correspondence prior to the public hearing day.
Downtown Design CommitteeNow accepting applications

August 6, 2020July 16  2020TBD

Historic Preservation CommissionNow accepting applicationsAugust 18, 2020August 4, 2020
TBD
TBD

5:00pm
Parties wishing to provide comments on specific agenda items, may send comments via fax to 757-393-5223, or by mail to the Planning Department, 801 Crawford Street Portsmouth, Virginia 23704-3822, or by email to chopj@portsmouthva.gov. Please submit correspondence prior to the public hearing day.
Wetlands BoardNow accepting applications
August 5, 2020
June 19, 2020
804-294-1932  Conf. ID: 
TBD
3:00pm
Parties wishing to provide comments on specific agenda items, may send comments via fax to 757-393-5223, or by mail to the Planning Department, 801 Crawford Street Portsmouth, Virginia 23704-3822, or by email to porters@portsmouthva.gov Please submit correspondence prior to the public hearing day.

Project Updates

Portsmouth Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan click here

Due to the current public health emergency, the draft plan public meeting will be virtual. Watch the virtual meeting presentation below! The video provides a quick overview of the planning process, the recommendations, and ways for you to share your thoughts on the draft plan. 

Procedures for Submitting Information including documents and applications

Please download the appropriate form for the service you require and contact the staff for submittal requirements and procedures.

Electronic Forms