Land Development Process in Goochland County

The Goochland County Land Development process ensures high-quality development that follows federal, state and local ordinances and standards. While there can be many steps to the process, many of the permits and applications can be performed concurrently to help expedite the process. For any commercial or industrial development, Goochland Economic Development is here to help!

1. Research and Feasibility Analysis

• Identify the parcel of land and confirm ownership
• Review Goochland County’s Comprehensive Plan to ensure your project aligns with county goals
• Check zoning and land use regulations for the property
• For any commercial or industrial projects, reach out to Goochland County Economic Development to discuss project and feasibility
• Does the project require a rezoning or CUP? If not, skip to number 3

2. Pre-Application Meeting

• Required for Rezoning and CUP Applications
• Meet with the Goochland County Community Development Department to discuss the project and seek guidance
• Obtain feedback on required studies, permits, and procedures

3. Site Survey and Preliminary Plans

• Hire a licensed surveyor to conduct a site survey
• Work with an engineer or architect to draft site plans and plan of development
• Perform any required due diligence to secure the site and to determine if project is feasible
• Does the project require a rezoning or CUP? If not, skip to number 5

4. Zoning and Land Use Approvals

• Apply for rezoning if the proposed development doesn't comply with current zoning
• Submit a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) if required

5. Submit Land Development Applications

• If you haven’t met with the Community Development department, schedule a meeting to discuss project before submitting land development applications to ensure conformity to regulations
• Plan of Development - Submit detailed site plans, including landscaping, drainage, and infrastructure, for county approval
• Land Disturbance - required if over 10,000 square feet of disturbance
• Stormwater - required if over 1-acre in disturbance
• Utility permits - Coordinate with utility providers for water, sewer, and electricity connections
• Obtain site plan approval
• Click here for all land development applications except public utilities

6. Subdivision and Plat Approval (if applicable)

• Only applicable if you are developing an industrial or business park
• Submit subdivision plans for review
• Obtain preliminary and final plat approvals from the county

   7. Building Permits

• Submit construction drawings in conjunction with permit applications to the Goochland County Building Inspections Department
• Obtain permits for building, plumbing, electrical, gas, fire, and mechanical systems

   8. Construction and Inspections

• Begin construction in compliance with approved plans and permits
• Schedule periodic inspections with the county

  9. Final Approval and Certificate of Occupancy

• Complete construction and pass final inspections
• Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or equivalent approval

10. Obtain Business License and Schedule your Grand Opening

• Go to the Commissioner of Revenue’s Page for A Business License Application
• Submit Application for Zoning Compliance Approval for Business License