Home arrow Guide to Services
Guide to Services

A
Animals
Address

Appointments
Auto Decals

B
Board of Supervisors
Budget and Finance
Building Inspections
Business Licenses

C
Chamber of Commerce
Child Advocacy
Citizen Comments
Clerk of the Court
Commissioner of the Revenue
Commonwealth's Attorney
Community College
County Administration
County Attorney
County Fair
Courts

D
Deeds and Plats
Domestic Violence Services
Drainage Ditches

E

Economic Development
Emergency Services
Emergency Shelters
E911 Mapbook
Employment Opportunities
Extension Service

F
Fire Protection

G
GIS Services

H
Health Department
Housing - Section 8
Hunting and Fishing Licenses

L
Law Enforcement
Libraries
Litter

 M
Maps - County
Marriage Licenses
Museum

P
Parks and Recreation
Passports
Planning Commission
Public Hearings
Public Works

R
Recycling
Registrar
Rescue Squad
Roads
Roadway Beautification

S
Schools
Sheriff
Signs - Street Name
Social Services

T
Taxes
Tourist Information
Trash
Treasurer

U
Utilities

V
Victim and Witness Protection Program
Volunteer Opportunities
Voting

W
Water and Sewer
Wills

Y
Yard Sales
Youth Services

Z
Zoning

A
  • Addresses
Addresses are assigned by the GIS Division within the IT Department.  Address applications should be accompanied by a plat or site diagram showing where the home or business is situated on the parcel along with driveway and where it intersects the public road system. Address Application
  • Animals

Animal Control
Animal Control will respond to emergency calls regarding stray animals, possible rabid animals, livestock  and bite cases. For more information, contact Animal Control at 365-6318.

Animal Shelter
The animal shelter is located on Poor House Road off Route 258 and is open Monday through Saturday  from 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday from 1:00 p.m. until 4pm. Animal Control offers pets for adoption at the animal shelter. Dogs, puppies, cats and kittens are available free. Puppies and kittens must be neutered or spayed by the age of six months; dogs and cats over six months old must be neutered or spayed within 30 days of adoption.

Dog and Cat Licenses
Animal licenses are available through the Treasurer's Office. You may apply through the mail after calling the Treasurer's Office for an application. Renewal of dog and cat licenses must be made annually by February 1. Animal licenses cost $3 for a male/spayed female dog or cat, $10 for an unspayed female dog or cat and $35 for a kennel. A rabies certificate must be presented before the license is purchased. For more information, contact the Treasurer's Office at 365-6228.

  • Appointments

    The Board of Supervisors make appointments to various boards, commissions and committees. Any questions regarding appointments to boards or commissions should be directed to the County Administrator's Office at 365-6204.

  • Auto Decals

    County license decals on automobiles are no longer necessary. Citizens must still register their vehicle at the Commissioner of Revenue's Office by presenting their Division of Motor Vehicle (DMV) registration. A preprinted registration will be mailed to registered owners in advance of the renewal date. Residents of the Towns of Smithfield and Windsor should contact their respective Town regarding auto decals. For additional information contact the Treasurer's Office at 365-6228.

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B
  • Board of Supervisors

    Members
    Isle of Wight is governed by the Board of Supervisors, an elected body of five members representing each of the County's five election districts. The Board determines all policies and ordinances which govern the County.

    Meetings
    Citizens are encouraged to attend meetings of the Board of Supervisors which are held each month on the first Thursday at 4:00 p.m. and the third Thursday at 6:00 p.m. in the Robert C. Claud, Sr. Board Room at the Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex. Citizens are invited to speak during the Citizen Comment section of each regular Board Meeting.

    Citizen Information Review
    The agenda for regular meetings and public hearings is published five days in advance of Board meetings and is available for review in the County Administrator's Office. The minutes from Board meetings are also available for review approximately thirty days after each meeting. For additional information, contact the County Administrator's Office at 365-6204.

  • Budget and Finance

    The Department of Budget and Finance is responsible for operation of the County budget to maintain and enhance the sound financial condition of Isle of Wight. This includes, but is not limited to, purchasing of goods and services and administration of grants. You may contact Budget and Finance at 365-6307 for any questions regarding financial operations.

  • Building Inspections

    The Department of Building Inspections ensures compliance with the building code and other laws governing building construction. Building permits are required for any construction, alteration or repair to a structure within the County. This includes decks, storage sheds, fences, wells, roof replacement, electrical, plumbing and mechanical work. Residents should contact the Department of Inspections at 365-6213 before starting any such project.

  • Business Licenses

    Applications
    Application for a business license may be obtained from the Commissioner of Revenue's Office and should be renewed annually by March 1. Residents of the Towns of Smithfield and Windsor should contact their respective Town regarding business licenses. For an application, please contact the Commissioner's Office at 365-6222.

    Prospective Businesses
    Prospective businesses are encouraged to discuss business plans or options with the Department of Economic Development at 365-6249.

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C
  • Chamber of Commerce

    The Chamber of Commerce for Isle of Wight County and the Towns of Smithfield and Windsor is located at 104 Main Street in downtown Smithfield. The Chamber is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 5 p.m. For information regarding membership, call 357-3502.

  • Child Advocacy

    The Voices for Kids CASA program recruits, trains and supervises volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children receiving mandated services through the court.  Our mission is to ensure a safe, permanent, nurturing home for each child as quickly as possible.  For more information about the program and how you can become a volunteer child advocate, visit CASA Facts and How to Volunteer. 

  • Citizen Comments

    At each regular Board of Supervisors meeting, the floor is open to citizens who wish to speak on any matter of interest during the Citizen Comments period.

  • Clerk of the Circuit Court

    The Clerk of the Circuit Court is elected by the citizens of Isle of Wight. The Clerk serves as support for Circuit Court judges, maintains County records and provides specific services to citizens. The Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court is where you may: obtain a marriage, hunting or fishing licenses; passports, record real estate deeds, plats or wills. Additionally, it is a good place to conduct genealogical research. Questions regarding jury duty for the Circuit Court should be directed to the Clerk's Office. The operating hours are weekdays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. For further information, call 365-6233.

  • Commissioner of the Revenue

    The Commissioner of the Revenue is elected by the citizens of Isle of Wight County. The Commissioner's responsibilities include assessment of all taxable property within the County, administration of Real Estate Tax Relief for the Elderly and Disabled, as well as issuance of business licenses and peddler's permits. Please see Taxes for additional information. The Commissioner's Office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and may be contacted at 365-6222.

  • Commonwealth's Attorney

    The Commonwealth's Attorney is elected by the citizens of Isle of Wight County. The duty of the Commonwealth's Attorney is to prosecute criminal offenses in Isle of Wight County. For more information, call 357-7312.

  • Community College

    Paul D. Camp Community College offers both college and specialized community courses. The College is located in the same building as the library at 253 James Street in the Town of Smithfield. For a course schedule, call 357-5782.

  • County Administrator

    The County Administrator is appointed by the Board of Supervisors to oversee the day-to-day operations of government in Isle of Wight. You may contact the County Administrator's Office at 365-6204.

  • County Attorney

    The County Attorney represents Isle of Wight in all legal matters. The County Attorney serves as legal advisor to the Board of Supervisors, County departments as well as County boards and commissions.

  • County Fair

    The County Fair is held annually in September at the Joel C. Bradshaw Fairgrounds at Heritage Park. Any questions regarding the County Fair may be directed to Parks and Recreation at 357-2291.

  • Courts

    Circuit Court
    The Circuit Court hears felonies and some civil cases. See Clerk of the Circuit Court for information regarding various services provided by the Clerk's Office. Hours of operation are weekdays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. You may reach the Circuit Court at 365-6233.

    General District Court
    The General District Court hears traffic violations, small claims cases and all misdemeanors. It is open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. For questions regarding traffic tickets or other information, call 365-6243.

    Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court
    The Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court has jurisdiction over cases involving neglected children and other family issues. The Court is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 365-6237.

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D—
  • Deeds and Plats

    Real estate deeds and plats are recorded and filed at the Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court. See Clerk of the Circuit Court for more information.

  • Domestic Violence Services

    The Genieve Shelter offers free services to women and children such as emergency sheltering, crisis counseling and support groups. For more information, call 925-4365 or the 24-hour hotline at 1-800-969-4673 (HOPE).

  • Drainage Ditches

    The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is responsible for roadside drainage. To report concerns, you may contact VDOT headquarters at the following locations: Bartlett area 238-2334, Smithfield 357-4910, Walters area 562-4454 or Windsor area 242-4165.

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E
  • Economic Development

    The Department of Economic Development works to diversify the County's economy by attracting new business and industry, as well as continuing to foster relationships with existing business. For more information, call 365-6249.

  • Emergency Services

    For all countywide emergencies, dial 911.

  • Emergency Shelters

    Tune to your local radio or TV station for information regarding sheltering opportunities during emergencies such as hurricanes or other serious weather situations.

  • Emergency 911 Book

  • The E911 Book is updated quarterly by the Graphic Information System (GIS) Department.  For Information please call 757-365-6278. [E911 Book ]

  • Employment Opportunities
  • Applications for employment with Isle of Wight County are available at the Human Resources Office located in the Administration building. Please call 365-6263 for further information.
  • Extension Service

The Virginia Cooperative Extension Office offers information and assistance with agriculture, nutrition and 4-H programs. Hours  of operations are weekdays from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. You may contact the Isle of Wight Extension Office at 365-6256.

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F
  • Fire Protection

    Isle of Wight is served by five volunteer fire departments strategically located within the County. For emergencies, dial 911. For information on becoming a volunteer firefighter, please contact the fire department in your community.

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G
  • GIS Services

    The GIS Services Division, located in the IT Department, supports the use of GIS for County staff and supplies GIS data to citizens and outside agencies. To request GIS data, contact the GIS Division at 365-6278. For a PDF copy of the ISLE OF WIGHT Survey Control click Here

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H
  • Health Department

    The Health Department provides prevention-oriented programs that promote the health of County citizens. It is located at 402 Grace Street in the Town of Smithfield. The Health Department is open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Please call 357-4177 or 1-800-695-8069 for more information.

  • Housing - Section 8

    Section 8 Housing provides rental and utility assistance for qualifying low income households. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. For more information, call 365-0880, 562-3423, 255-4044, or 242-3764.

  • Hunting and Fishing Licenses

    Hunting and fishing licenses are available from the Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court. See Clerk of the Circuit Court for more information.

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L
  • Law Enforcement

    Law enforcement in Isle of Wight County is provided by the Sheriff's Office. The Smithfield Police Department provides law enforcement services for the Town of Smithfield. For all countywide emergencies, call 911. You may contact the Sheriff's Office for any non-emergency at 365-6250 or 357-2151. The State police may be reached at 1-800-582-8350.

  • Libraries

    Rawls Regional Library System
    There are three libraries within Isle of Wight County which operate as a part of the Rawls regional library system. For more information regarding library hours, services or facilities, please contact each branch at the following numbers: Carrollton 238-2641, Smithfield 357-2264 and Windsor 242-3046.

    Bookmobile
    The bookmobile, operated by the Walter C. Rawls library in Courtland, serves various communities within Isle of Wight County. For information regarding locations and times, call 653-2821.

  • Litter

    For collection of roadside litter, please contact the Department of Public Works at 365-6217.

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M
  • Maps

    County maps may be purchased at various locations throughout the County including the Chamber of Commerce and Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court.  LINK TO MAP GALLERY

  • Marriage Licenses

    Marriage licenses are obtained and recorded at the Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court. See Clerk of the Circuit Court for more information.

  • Museum

    The Isle of Wight Museum features a historical perspective of the County with special emphasis placed on water, ham and agricultural industries. The Museum is located at 103 Main Street in downtown Smithfield. Admission is free. It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. For more information, call 356-1223.

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P
  • Parks and Recreation 

    Parks
    The Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide variety of recreational programs and operates numerous facilities throughout the County. The administrative offices are located at Nike Park. For more information regarding program offerings or facilities, call 357-2291 or 357-2217.

    • Camptown Park
      The Camptown Park is located in southern Isle of Wight on Carver Road. It has a Community Center which offers classes and after-school programs. Basketball and tennis courts are available. Park hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 11 p.m. You may call 569-9810 for additional information.

    • Fort Boykin Historic Park
      Located near Smithfield, Fort Boykin Park offers a self-guided tour that recounts history from 1623. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00 a.m. until dark.

    • Jersey Park
      The Park is located on West Street in the Jersey Park neighborhood in Smithfield. It includes a playground area and a sand volleyball court. It is open during daylight hours.

    • Nike Park
      The Park is located in Carrollton on Nike Park Road. It has facilities for tennis, baseball and soccer and offers a Senior Citizen's Center, Ceramics Building and a Recreational Hall. Nike Park is open from 8:00 a.m. until dark.

    • Riverview Park
      The Riverview Park is located on James Street in the Town of Smithfield. It includes tennis and basketball courts, baseball fields and a senior activities area.

    • Robinson Park
      Located on Duke Street in the Town of Windsor, this park has a recreation area and a play area for children.

    Boat Ramps
    A boat ramp from Route 611 is available at Joyner Bridge to access the Blackwater River. The Jones Creek boat ramp on Boundary Road in Carrollton provides two boat ramps to access the Creek. Additionally, Tyler's Beach boat ramp provides entry to the James River at the end of Tyler's Beach Road in Rushmere.

    Skating Rink
    The Isle of Wight/Franklin Skating Rink is located near the intersections of Route 258 and Route 58 Business. It is a family-oriented facility with programs for young and old. You may contact the Skating Rink at 569-9316 for infor-mation regarding hours and programs.

  • Passports

    Passports are available from the Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court. See Clerk of the Circuit Court for more information.

  • Planning Commission

    The Planning Commission makes recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on future land use and development based on policies and guidelines set in the County's Comprehensive Plan. The Commission meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Robert C. Claud, Sr. Board Room at the Courthouse Complex.

  • Public Hearings

    Public hearings are an opportunity for citizens to speak on a specific issue of community interest. Advertisement of the public hearing is published in the local newspaper prior to Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals meetings. The Board of Supervisors holds public hearings at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. The Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals hold a public hearing at each meeting.

  • Public Works

    The Department of Public Works is responsible for waste management and the maintenance of County facilities. See Trash Collection for additional information.

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R
  • Recycling

    Recycling opportunities are provided through the Southeastern Public Service Authority (SPSA) at the County's full service Convenience Centers. For those citizens with curb-side collection, recycling containers are provided. For more information, please contact Public Works at 365-1658.

  • Registrar

    The Registrar is responsible for voter registration within Isle of Wight County. Please see Voting for more information.

  • Rescue Squad

    The County is served by two rescue squads. Individuals in need of emergency medical services should call 911. For information on becoming a volunteer member of the rescue squad, contact the rescue squad in your community.

  • Roads

    All primary and secondary roads in the County, outside of the Towns of Smithfield and Windsor, are constructed and maintained by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). For information regarding roads or streets, contact the appropriate VDOT headquarters: Bartlett area 238-2334, Smithfield 357-4910, Walters area 562-4454 or Windsor area 242-4165.

  • Roadway Beautification

    Isle of Wight strives to enhance the image of the County by providing signage, flowers and shrubs along the main gateways to the County, as well as other designated areas. You may contact County Administration at 365-6204 for questions regarding roadway beautification.

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S
  • Schools

    Administrative Offices
    You may contact the school administrative offices for information or inquiries regarding the Isle of Wight County School Division. The administrative offices are open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Visit the Isle of Wight County Schools Website at www.iwcs.k12.va.us. You may reach the administrative offices at 357-4393, 569-8605 or 242-4400.

    School Board
    The Isle of Wight County School Board is an appointed body of five citizens representing each of the County's five election districts. The School Board sets school policy and reviews administrative actions. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Board Room at the Courthouse Complex. Citizens who wish to address the School Board should contact the school Administrative Offices.

  • Sheriff

    The Sheriff is elected by the citizens of Isle of Wight. As the County's chief law enforcement officer, the Sheriff's responsibilities encompass a range of law enforcement services. For additional information, please see Law Enforcement. The Sheriff's Office is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For all countywide emergencies, call 911. You may contact the Sheriff's Office for any non-emergency at 357-2151.

  • Signs- Street Name

    Street name signs (designated by yellow and blue colors) are erected and maintained by the Department of Public Works. Residents of the Towns should contact their respective Town regarding street name signs. For further information, contact Public Works at 365-6217.

  • Social Service

    The Department of Social Services provides service programs and public assistance programs to citizens. It is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For additional information, call 365-0880.

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T
  • Taxes

    Assessment
    All taxes within the County are assessed by the Commissioner of Revenue's Office. This includes the personal property tax (for vehicles, motor homes and business furniture and fixtures), real estate tax, other local taxes (as shown on the Tax Rate Chart), and Virginia State Income Tax. You may reach the Commissioner of Revenue's Office at 365-6222. For questions regarding real estate taxation, contact the Commissioner of the Revenue's Real Estate Division at 365-6218 or 365-6219.

    Collection
    All taxes for Isle of Wight are collected by the Treasurer's Office. Any questions regarding tax collection may be directed to the Treasurer's Office at 365-6228.

    Real Estate Tax Relief for Elderly and Disabled
    A deferral or exemption of real estate tax may be available to qualifying taxpayers 65 years of age or older or to those who are totally disabled. Qualifications are based on income and net financial worth. The application should be filed by October 15 and renewed annually. For more information, contact the Commissioner of the Revenue's Office 365-6219.

     
    Tax Rates for Isle of Wight County
    Personal Property $4.40 per $100 Due December 5
    Real Estate 52 cents per $100 Due June 5 and December 5
    Boats/Airplanes $1.00 per $100 Due December 5
    Machinery and Tools 95 cents per $100 Due December 5

  • Tourist Information

    Tourism Bureau
    The Tourism Bureau works to attract visitors to the County. It is located in the Old Clerk's Office at 132 Main Street in downtown Smithfield. The Bureau is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and may be reached by calling 357-5182 or 1-800-365-9339.

    Visitor's Center
    The Visitor's Center provides free valuable information to residents and tourists regarding local and state attractions, special events and area maps. It is located in the Old Courthouse at 130 Main Street in Smithfield. The Visitor's Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information call 357-5182 or 1-800-365-9339.

  • Trash

    Convenience Centers
    The County operates eight full-service Convenience Centers where trash is accepted: Camptown (Franklin), Carroll Bridge (Windsor), Crocker's (Windsor), Walters(Carrsville), Carrsville (Carrsville), Jones Creek (Carrollton), Stave Mill (Windsor) and Wrenn's Mill (Smithfield). These sites are open seven days a week. Please see the Solid Waste's Convenience Center page for seasonal hours. For additional information regarding trash collection, contact the Department of Public Works at 365-1658.

    Curbside Trash Collection
    The County provides door-to-door collection of trash through a franchise agreement with a local vendor for a fee. Residents of the Towns of Smithfield and Windsor should contact their respective Town regarding curbside garbage collection. If you desire curbside garbage collection, contact Public Works at 365-1658.

    Transfer Station
    The Southeastern Public Service Authority (SPSA) operates a refuse transfer station on Route 620. The facility contains a Household Hazardous Waste Collection area for residents to dispose of unwanted chemicals (such as paint, insecticides and household cleaners) on the 4th Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. until noon. For more information, call 357-7815.

  • Treasurer

    The Treasurer is elected by the citizens of Isle of Wight County. The duty of the Treasurer is to collect all tax revenue and local fees. See Taxes for further information. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. For questions regarding the Treasurer's Office, call 365-6228.

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U
  • Utilities

    The Department of Public Utilities maintains and operates the County's water and sewer system. Residents who live in Smithfield and Windsor may have water and sewer provided by their respective Town. For more information, call the Public Utilities Department at 365-6319. For specific billing questions, please call 365-6310.

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V
  • Victim and Witness Assistance Program

    The Victim and Witness Assistance Program offers free services to both victims and witnesses of crime such as legal assistance and emergency sheltering. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 357-7403.

  • Volunteer Opportunities

    Volunteers are welcome and encouraged to be active in support of their County. Numerous opportunities are available throughout Isle of Wight. In particular the libraries, School Division, Department of Social Services, Office on Youth, as well as fire and rescue services, rely on the participation of citizens. The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) coordinates volunteer placement for persons 55 years of age or over. For more information regarding the RSVP, call 357-7106.

  • Voting

    Citizens must be registered with the Registrar's Office at least twenty-nine days prior to an election in order to vote. Residents may now register at all Division of Motor Vehicle (DMV) Offices or via mail after calling the Registrar's Office for an application. The Registrar's Office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. For additional information regarding elections and voting, call 365-6230, 562-3275, 255-4044 or 242-6114.

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W
  • Water and Sewer

    Public water and sewer service is offered in some areas of the County. Please see Utilities for further information.

  • Wills

    Wills are recorded and filed at the Clerk's Office of the Circuit Court. See Clerk of the Circuit Court for more information.

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Y
  • Yard Sales

    A peddler's license is required if the number of yard sales held by a citizen exceeds two annually. The license may be purchased at the Commissioner of Revenue's office for $10. Residents of the Towns of Smithfield and Windsor should contact their respective Town regarding yard sale permits. For further information, call 365-6222.

  • Youth Services

    The Office on Youth serves as an advocate to enhance the quality of life for youth in Isle of Wight County. It offers an information and referral service as well as educational programs. The Office is open weekdays from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. For more information, call 365-6260.

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Z
  • Zoning

    Department of Planning and Zoning
    The Department of Planning and Zoning administers the Zoning Ordinance and subdivision regulations. It also assists citizens in applying for special use permits, zoning permits, subdivision review, site plan review and obtaining maps. For inquiries regarding development and zoning issues, contact the Department at 365-6211.

    Public Notice
    Any change or variation in zoning law requires public notice and a public hearing before approval. Public notices are published in the local paper, sent to adjoining property owners and posted on the property.

    Planning Commission
    Please see Planning Commission. 

    Board of Zoning Appeals
    The Board of Zoning Appeals hears requests for variances from the County's Zoning Ordinance. When necessary, meetings are held on the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Board Room at the Courthouse Complex.

    Violations of Zoning Ordinance
    Code violations, such as those pertaining to abandoned vehicles or tall grass and weeds, are handled by the Department of Planning and Zoning. For more information, call 365-6211.

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