County Business Codes
Planning and Zoning
The James City County Planning Division reviews site plans, updates the County’s Zoning Ordinances and Comprehensive Plan and gathers local demographic information. Development Management offers detailed guides of the planning and building process. It is suggested that you obtain copies of Development Managements pamphlets to assist you in this area of starting your own business. Please contact Development Management at (757) 253-6671 to obtain these guides.
How do I decide where to locate my business?
The James City County Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Map are important tools in determining where to locate a business. The Zoning Ordinance allows certain land uses in a district and grants other uses with a special use permit. The Land Use Map acts as a goal of sorts, in terms of the development the County would like to see in certain areas. It is very important to check with the Planning Division to ensure that the proposed property for your business is properly zoned. It may be necessary to obtain a Special Use Permit or rezone the property to accommodate the proposed use. Both of these actions require Board of Supervisors’ approval.
When do I need to file a site plan and application?
If you are planning to build a new structure, build an addition, rehabilitate/convert an existing structure, or make changes to the property (add parking, reconfigure access to the property, etc.), you will need to file a site plan and a Site Plan Application with the Planning Division. It is recommended that you meet with a Planner from the Planning Division to discuss the project before submitting a formal application.
The site plan will be reviewed by all appropriate review agencies (Virginia Department of Transportation, Environmental Division, James City Service Authority, etc.). Once all comments have been addressed, final approval will be issued. It is recommended that you consult with a professional engineer, surveyor, or architect to assist you in the site planning process.
Where can I learn about James City County’s plans for future development?
James City County adopted the 2003 Comprehensive Plan, “Vision For Our Future,” in August 2003. This document contains useful information for business owners who are considering locating in the County, including sections on County economics and land uses. This document can be viewed in its entirety at the James City County Planning Division, or at both Williamsburg Regional Libraries.
Where can I learn about James City County demographics?
Demographic information is important in determining an adequate labor force and customer base. A variety of information on local demographics can be found on the County’s website at www.jccEgov.com. Further information can be found on the United States Census Bureau’s website at www.census.gov or the Virginia Employment Commission’s website at www.vec.virginia.gov. For information on site plans and applications or zoning requirements contact the James City County Planning Division, 101-E Mounts Bay Road, Williamsburg, VA, 23185, (757) 253-6685, Fax (757) 253-6850
Building Permits
Once you have confirmation that your property is properly zoned for your business and you have an approved site plan, obtaining the proper building permits is the next step. The following section provides answers to many commonly asked questions about building permits.
When is a building permit required?
A permit is required by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code for almost all repairs, alterations, and new work for buildings, and electrical, plumbing/mechanical (heating & air) work. There are a few limited exceptions.
If the electricity and gas have been turned off to a vacant business location, what is necessary to restore it?
An application for service with the appropriate utility may be all that is necessary. However, if the gas has been off more than one year, it is necessary to obtain a “reconnect” permit from Code Compliance Division. Once this permit has been obtained, an inspection will be required to determine if the facility is safe and if service can be restored. If it is determined that any electrical problem exists, an electrical “reconnect” permit may be required.
How long does it take to get a permit?
Simple permits such as reconnect permits may be issued during one visit to the Code Compliance Division. Permits for large, complex structures may take three weeks or more for initial review.
Who can apply for a permit?
An owner, tenant, or licensed contractor can legally apply for a permit in Virginia. It is against State Regulations for an owner or tenant to obtain a permit and then hire an unlicensed contractor to do the work.
What is required if a business wants to add on to an existing building or build a new building?
Site plan approval and building permit approval are required. The site plan process takes longer. The site plan must be approved prior to the issuance of the building permit, but the building permit application can be reviewed simultaneously with the site plan review.
For information on building permits and review requirements, contact the James City County Code Compliance Division, 101-E Mounts Bay Road, Williamsburg, VA, 23185, (757) 253-6626, Fax (757) 259-4038 or by e-mail: codecomp@james-city.va.us
If I want to erect a sign, what are the requirements?
All signs require an approved sign permit issued by the Planning Division. However, signs may also require a building permit depending on type, size and illumination of the sign. There are restrictions on the size and placement of the signs.
For information on sign requirements, contact the James City County Planning Division, 101-E Mounts Bay Road, Williamsburg, VA, 23185, (757) 253-6685, Fax (757) 253-6850
Fire Code
James City County has adopted for local enforcement the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code. The James City County Fire Department conducts inspections of businesses in the County for compliance to the code on an annual basis.
To ensure that your business complies with these codes, contact the James City County Fire Administration, 300 McLaws Circle, Suite 200, Williamsburg, VA 23185, (757) 220-0626, Fax (757) 220-9125
County Requirements - Links
|