Land Use and Zoning

“Our attorneys are dedicated to representing property owners, commercial real estate developers, solar developers, and other businesses and non-profit organizations in connection with all aspects of zoning and land use approvals in Virginia."

Local government and use approvals are increasingly difficult to obtain in Virginia for projects that have a notable impact on the landscape, such as renewable energy projects or commercial developments. Opposition groups regularly appear at public hearings where owners and developers are seeking special use permits, special exceptions, rezonings, and other approvals. The agricultural, historical and natural heritages that are such assets to the Commonwealth are often cited as reasons a project should not proceed.

 

That’s why it’s crucial to partner with experienced legal counsel who can help you navigate the land use law hurdles, development-related policies, and “people side” considerations that come into play in any public process in order to achieve your objectives. At GreeneHurlocker, our Land Use and Zoning attorneys are dedicated to representing property owners, commercial real estate developers, solar developers, and other businesses and non-profit organizations in connection with all aspects of zoning and land use approvals in Virginia.

 

We offer comprehensive counsel on potential legal and regulatory issues that may arise during development, including prior to land acquisition. By gaining a clear understanding of our clients’ objectives, we design a strategy that can help gain approval of a project.

 

As the “quarterback” to our clients on land use and zoning projects, we marshal and coordinate the necessary resources, such as tax experts and environmental consultants, to bring a project to fruition.

While we serve clients across many different sectors, we have significant experience working with solar and other renewable energy clients on land use and zoning matters, including:

 

  • Applying for and obtaining special land use permits and special exceptions for community solar and utility scale solar facilities, retail and industrial developments, and developers in other property classes
  • Negotiating with local jurisdictions on rezonings, SUP conditions, proffers, siting agreements, and payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreements
  • Researching and advising with respect to the “lay of the land” in specific counties and cities in Virginia
  • Counsel on compliance with environmental permitting laws, such as stormwater and erosion control requirements, as well as other regulatory regimes
  • Addressing opposition from local residents and community groups that may have concerns about the potential impacts of these types of projects.
  • Monitor changes in ordinances and policies, interface with county officials, and advise clients on opportunities to seek ordinance changes or variances.

 

Please contact GreeneHurlocker Partners Jared Burden or Andy Brownstein with any questions or if you require assistance with land use and/or zoning issues in Virginia.

Virginia Solar Land Use News of Note

Each month we review and summarize noteworthy developments in solar land use throughout Virginia. Please access our past updates, organized by month and year, below.

2024 VIRGINIA SOLAR LAND USE NEWS OF NOTE UPDATES