Zoning Ordinance Update

The Zoning Ordinance is one of the key tools Virginia localities use to regulate the use and development of land. Frederick County’s Zoning Ordinance is in the process of being amended to reflect current best practices in zoning, and land use; to strengthen and enhance the ability to implement the strategies and priority items of the current Comprehensive Plan; and to improve clarity and ease of use.

Phase I Zoning Ordinance Update - Underway

Following the delivery of the Zoning Diagnostic (2024), the County has commissioned the Berkley Group to assist staff in a Zoning Ordinance update. This project is considered “phase one” and will consist of reorganization, streamlining, and editing for state code compliance. The anticipated completion of the Phase I project is March 2026.  

Revised materials will be posted here when available. 

*A Phase II update will be completed after the Comprehensive Plan is updated to implement Plan policy via the ordinance.

Zoning Diagnostic - 2024

As part of Frederick County’s full review of its Zoning Ordinance, the County commissioned a diagnostic study by the Berkley Group to examine the Ordinance for compliance with the Code of Virginia and other land use and development best practices. Key findings and recommendations are summarized in the report and appendices below and the report was presented to a joint work session of the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors in November 2024.