Planning & Zoning

The Department of Planning and Zoning works closely with the community in each area of the city to carry out City Council's Strategic Plan for vibrant, amenity-rich neighborhoods, protected historic resources, and vital local businesses. With the community as our partner in developing neighborhood plans and reviewing proposals for development projects and businesses, we continue to deliver on the vision we have developed together.

Page updated on Sep 20, 2017 at 12:53 PM

What's New

Alexandria Master Plan & Citywide Chapters

The Alexandria Master Plan is made up of 18 Small Area Plans covering neighborhoods throughout the city, plus chapters on key topics, such as Historic Preservation, Transportation, and Open Space. The Alexandria Master Plan was adopted by the City Council in 1992, and chapters are updated on an ongoing basis through Master Plan Amendments. More information. 

Boards and Commissions

The City of Alexandria has a strong commitment to citizen participation as evidenced by the number of citizen boards and commissions established by City Council. Planning and Zoning works closely with the Boards and Commissions listed on this page.

Development Review

Alexandria continues to be a desirable location to live, work and play. The City’s collaborative development review process strives to balance quality development and the needs of the growing community. Visit this page for a complete list of active development projects, rezoning criteria, green building policy, and design guidelines. The following links may also be helpful:  Development Resources |  GIS Planning and Development Viewer | Dockets, Webcasts and Staff Reports

Historic Preservation/Boards of Architectural Review

There are two locally regulated historic districts in the city: the Parker-Gray District and the Old & Historic Alexandria District. Find out more about the historic districts, the Boards of Architectural Review (BAR), and the types of requests that can be reviewed by staff by visiting this page . The following links may also be helpful:  Historic Districts Map |  BAR Applications & Instructions |  Dockets, Webcasts, and Staff Reports |  Design Guidelines & Policies

Neighborhood Planning and Community Development

The Neighborhood Planning and Community Development division provides community-based long range planning and analysis regarding the physical development and appearance of the city; develops and implements the City's Interdepartmental Long Range Planning Work Program; manages plan implementation; and advises other agencies on land use, design, demographics, and other planning issues. More information.

Zoning & Permits

Visit  this page to get information about the City’s zoning regulations including residential infill regulations that apply to new houses, residential additions, front porches and garages. Find out about permits for King Street Outdoor Dining and A-frame signs, and resources for small businesses and home occupations. The following links may also be helpful:   Zoning Map |  Zoning Ordinance |  Dockets, Webcasts and Staff Reports |  Applications and Forms

Contact Us 

Questions? 

  • Department staff can be contacted at any time between the hours of 8am and 5pm, Monday thru Friday, by calling 703.746.4666. Or visit us at City Hall, 301 King Street, Room 2100.
  • Planning and Zoning Staff Contact List


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