Site Tools

 

 

 

Policy Guidelines and Studies

Recognizing that our community has the possibility of significant amounts of additional growth,

it is important to know what growth control tools are (and are not) available, and then evaluate which of the available tools would best achieve the community’s goals and vision. 

The Land Use section of the Comprehensive

Plan discusses which growth control tools exist in Virginia, and notes that the County has traditionally been a leader in using the available tools.  That section also notes that measures such as population and building caps are not currently supported under Virginia law.  It is important to note that growth control tools deal not only with how much development occurs, but about ways that communities can influence where new development is located; when new development occurs (timing); whether a particular new development is capable of being supported by water supply, public facilities and services, environmental resources, and the transportation system; and how development fits with existing community character.  Primarily, the available tools provide information and guidelines to County leaders to help them make decisions on development proposals.