Navigating Stafford County’s Rezoning and CUP Process

Stafford County works to simplify the process for residents, including making the rezoning and Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process easier to understand. Whether you are a property owner, a developer, or simply curious about land use decisions, this handy guide will walk you through the four key stages that every application must navigate: the application phase, administrative evaluation, public hearing, and final action.

Watch our latest video on the Rezoning and CUP application process for a quicker review of the process.

Phase 1: The Application Phase

Imagine you are planning a project that will change the way a piece of land is used. Maybe you want to build something new or introduce a business in a neighborhood. The first step? Figuring out if your project needs a rezoning or a CUP or both.

Rezoning is when a property's zoning designation-think of it as its "identity"-needs to be updated to fit your plans. On the other hand, a CUP allows a certain use that might not normally fit into the current zoning but could work if special conditions are met.

Once you have submitted your completed application, it is uploaded to the County website for everyone to see. Then, it is off to the next step!

Phase 2: Administrative Evaluation

Behind the scenes, various agencies spring into action, from Planning and Zoning to Development Services, the Fire Marshal, and even state and federal agencies. They do this to investigate every detail, ensure your project aligns with the County's Comprehensive Plan, and assess how it may impact the surrounding environment, public facilities, roads, and schools.

Agency involvement ensures that important factors such as historical and cultural resources, environmental impacts, and water and wastewater considerations are thoroughly evaluated during the application process.

This is not a one-way street, though. There is plenty of back-and-forth between you and the County staff. You will work together to address comments, answer questions, and make revisions as needed. Once everything checks out, it is time to present your project to the public!

Phase 3: The Public Hearing

Now comes the exciting part: community involvement! The Planning Commission holds a public hearing where residents can voice their opinions on your application. Fifteen days before the hearing, the County starts spreading the word-posting signs on the property, publishing notices in local newspapers, and notifying neighbors within 500 feet.

During the public hearing, the Planning Commission listens carefully and can recommend approval, denial, or delay a decision to give the application more time for review. After their recommendation, your application heads to the Board of Supervisors for a second public hearing and, eventually, a final decision.

Phase 4: Final Action

Lastly, the Board of Supervisors decides whether to approve or deny the application. If approved, there might be more requirements. Proffers could be required for rezoning-these are agreements to provide something extra, like land donations or infrastructure improvements. For CUPs, there may be conditions that ensure your project has minimal impact on the surrounding area.

Once the decision is made, the process does not stop. You will still need to navigate the next steps-creating detailed site plans, obtaining permits, and undergoing inspections-to bring your project to life.

The process, from submittal of a complete application to final vote of the Board of Supervisors, can take up to 12 months or sometimes more.

Wrapping It Up

The rezoning and CUP process is about balancing growth and community needs, ensuring that new projects are a positive fit for Stafford County. If you're ever unsure about where to start or what to do next, the Department of Planning and Zoning is there to help, and they're just a call - (540) 658-8668 or click away - www.staffordcountyva.gov/planning!

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