Board of Zoning Appeals

COVID-19 Update 

In accordance with an Emergency Continuity of Governance Ordinance adopted by City Council on April 6, 2020, members of the public are not permitted to physically attend Board of Zoning Appeals meetings, until further notice, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The public is encouraged to participate and express their views electronically by emailing comments to Rachel.Drescher@harrisonburgva.gov, or by calling in during the public hearing at the telephone number to be listed on the agenda.

The agenda will be posted at https://harrisonburg-va.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx the week prior to the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting. 

Interested parties may watch the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting, including the public hearing, on Public Education Government Channel 3 or on the City’s website.

Questions may be directed to Zoning staff at 540-432-7700.

Board Description

The Board of Zoning Appeals is a quasi-judicial board who are sworn in by the Circuit Court to serve a five year term. The function of the BZA is to hear and decide appeals from any decision or determination made by and zoning administrator and to authorize variances from the laws set forth in the Zoning Ordinance. The responsibilities of the Board of Zoning Appeals are in the City Code Section 10-3-132 through 10-3-140.

Individuals interested in deviating from the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance (not to include use changes) or interested in appealing a decision of the Zoning Administrator may request such action and apply to the Board of Zoning Appeals.

Term

Five years - two successive.

Public Hearing Notices

Upcoming public hearing notices are available on the City's Public Hearing webpage. 

Agenda and Minutes 

Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting Agendas and Minutes 

Meeting Date/Time/Location
The BZA meets as needed on the first Monday of the month at 4:00pm at the City Council Chambers (409 South Main Street). 

[95KB] 2020 BZA Meeting Dates and Application Deadlines

[95KB] 2021 BZA Meeting Dates and Application Deadlines 

*See COVID-19 UPDATE at top of this page for cancelled meetings. 

Questions or Comments?  Mail to City of Harrisonburg, Office of City Manager, Attn: (Board Member), 409 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.

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