Residential Occupancy Increase in Single-Family Dwellings

Residential occupancy in a single-family detached dwelling may be increased from three unrelated persons to four unrelated persons with administrative approval from the Zoning Administrator subject to conditions outlined in 21-619 of the zoning ordinance.

Highlights of the Residential Occupancy Increase follows:

• It is allowed in a single-family detached dwelling only.
• There shall be only one dwelling unit on the lot.
• The dwelling unit must be located within a rental inspection district.
• A floor area of at least 2,000 square feet of living space, excluding garages, unfinished basements, or other unfinished areas, is required.
• Four parking spaces are required.  Parking spaces may be on-site or on-street along the adjoining public street's frontage and contiguous to the lot.  The minimum length of a parking space on an adjoining public street is 18 feet and shall not include curb cuts for driveways.
• A fence or wall must enclose trash and recycling containers.
• Meet the requirements of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.
• Submit an application containing a floor plan showing the location, name, dimensions, and floor area of all rooms, and a plot plan showing the location of the dwelling, the location of on and off-site parking, the lot coverage of the driveways and parking areas, and the location of trash and recycling containers.

See section 21-619 of the City Code for information on inspections, lease requirements, certificate of occupancy, violations, and revocation of a permit.