Divisions

Administration

The Administrative Division is responsible for managing the Department’s payroll, budget, and IT needs.  Division staff manages special projects including the Department’s Capital Improvement Projects and the Parklet and Façade Improvement programs.  Additionally, staff maintains the City’s Central Address System.

authentiCITY Studio

authentiCITY Studio sits within the Department of Planning and Development Review and is dedicated to collaborative placemaking and placekeeping across the city.  The Studio works across PDR divisions and City departments to build genuine connections, value complex history, celebrate our present and shape the future.

Land Use Administration

The Land Use Administration Division processes required applications for by-right development. Land Use Administration staff is the point of contact for these applications and coordinates their review with other city agencies that may be impacted by the development proposals. 

Permits & Inspections

The Bureau of Permits and Inspections reviews applications and construction documents for the construction, alterations and improvements to all new and existing structures in the City of Richmond. After permits are issued, the bureau inspects the work at specific stages through the completion of the job. This process is to ensure the life safety and code compliance of buildings. The process provides safe buildings for citizens whether they live in, work in, or are visiting the City of Richmond.

Planning and Policy

The Planning and Policy Division sits within the Dept. of Planning and Development Review. The Division works across City departments to plan for and facilitate the creation of the more sustainable, beautiful and equitable city envisioned by Richmonders in the Master Plan.  The Division also partners with outside entities, such as RRHA, to further the Master Plan.

Property Maintenance/Code Enforcement

The Mission of the Property Maintenance & Code Enforcement Division is to protect all citizens and visitor's health and safety and to enrich and assist in the support of vibrant, economically strong neighborhoods and communities through education and enforcement of property maintenance regulations.

Zoning Administration

The Zoning Administration Division provides a variety of functions related to permitting and planning services. Every parcel within the city has a zoning designation that governs its use. These uses are defined in the official zoning ordinance supported by the official zoning map. Zoning staff review permits to promote the orderly development of every parcel within the city as it relates to the individual use of the property.