Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals purpose is to hear requests for variances from the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, and provide the initial level of review of any decision of the Zoning Administrator.

Boards & Commissions Online Application

You can now fill out the Boards / Commissions / Committees / Authorities Application online.

Boards & Commissions Application (Download)

Boards and Commissions Application Download Version.

Boards & Commissions Manual

Manual for Boards and Commissions

Downtown Design Committee

The Downtown Design Committee is to preserve the character of the downtown design districts via promoting the preservation and restoration of existing structures; and, promoting new structures that compliment the character of the downtown design districts.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will provide consistent deliberations on requests to alter historic structures within the historic Cradock, Olde Towne, Park View, Port Norfolk and Truxtun neighborhoods.

Planning Commission

The Commission’s primary responsibility is to make recommendations to the City Council on matters related to comprehensive and current planning and land use development.

Portsmouth Mayor's Military Affairs Committee

Wetlands Board

The Board endeavors to preserve and prevent the despoliation of Portsmouth’s wetland areas while accommodating necessary economic development and shoreline stabilization in a manner consistent with wetland preservation.

Vacancy List

Here you will find a list of vacancies for our boards and commissions.

Complete Count Commission

The Census 2020 Complete Count Committee has been created for the purpose of increasing community awareness of, and participation in, the 2020 Census.