Zoning Code Enforcement

What is Zoning Code Enforcement?

The Zoning Division of the Department of Community Development is responsible for responding to citizen concerns and enforcing land use requirements outlined in the Code of Roanoke County. Code Enforcement officers work with citizens and property owners to investigate and resolve violations of the County code and zoning ordinance. These rules and regulations are in effect in Roanoke County to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of its citizens and to promote convenient, harmonious, and attractive communities.

What Is the Difference Between a Code Violation & a Zoning Violation?

Roanoke County Zoning Ordinance

A zoning ordinance is a collection of regulations related to land use and development. The Roanoke County Zoning Ordinance has been adopted along with an official zoning map, which assigns all property in the County into various zoning districts. Each zoning district has a clear objective and indicates which land uses are permitted by right. Violations related to the County Zoning Ordinance include non-permitted uses, sign issues, and setback violations.

Common Zoning Violations

Inoperable Vehicles

Inoperable Vehicles are defined by the Roanoke County Code as "Any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer which is not in operating condition, or which for a period of sixty (60) days or longer has been partially or totally disassembled by the removal of tires and wheels, the engine or other essential parts required for operation of the vehicle or on which there are displayed neither valid license plates nor a valid inspection decal." Inoperable vehicles are not permitted on any property unless they are completely hidden from public view or stored in an enclosed structure.

Zoning Permits

One of the most common zoning violations in Roanoke County is the failure to obtain a zoning permit for any new structure on a lot. This includes new construction, accessory structures, sign permits, special use permits, and even Residential Chicken Keeping Zoning Permits. Many of Roanoke County's applications and forms for Permits can be found online, or you can contact our Permit Technicians at (540) 772-8183.

Grass Height

The Code of Roanoke County states that it is unlawful for weeds to grow more than twelve inches in height.

Accumulation of Trash

The owner of any property is expected to maintain the exterior in a clean, safe condition free from the accumulation of trash.

Recreational and Commercial Vehicles

While we encourage citizens of Roanoke County to enjoy the beauty of local parks, we do have limitations for where your recreational vehicle, boat, etc. are allowed to be parked. For a recreational vehicle to be parked on your property, it must be parked behind the front building line or completely enclosed in a garage or other building.