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Portsmouth adopts citywide subdivision ordinance changes to comply with state law
Summary
City council unanimously adopted amendments to Chapter 33.1 (subdivisions) to implement changes required by the Code of Virginia (HB2660 and SB974), including making major subdivision review an administrative process and adding timeliness and surety‑release provisions. Staff said implementation has already begun.
The Portsmouth City Council on Oct. 28 adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 33.1 of the city code to align the city’s subdivision procedures with recent amendments to the Code of Virginia.
Dr. Russell, a city planner, told the council the state changes require the major subdivision review process to be handled administratively rather than as a legislative planning commission action. The ordinance also adds provisions for release of developer sureties and sets timeliness requirements for the review process, which the city said should improve efficiency and reduce costs for developers.
A resident, Donna Biggs, said the ordinance language was confusing to lay readers and asked for clearer public materials. Dr. Russell said staff had already begun applying the administrative review procedures after the state law took effect July 1, 2025.
The council adopted the ordinance by electronic roll call, 7-0.
