Planning Commission

Warren County Logo

The Warren County Planning Commission is a vital part of our community's growth and development. Established by the Code of Virginia, every county, city, and town is required to create a local planning commission to promote public health, safety, convenience, and welfare, and to plan for orderly development.

Role

The primary role of the Planning Commission is advisory, serving the Board of Supervisors with recommendations and insights. The commission's main responsibility is the development of the County’s Comprehensive Plan, a long-range guide for community growth and development. The Code of Virginia mandates that every county must have an adopted plan, reviewed at least once every five years.

The Comprehensive Plan covers history/regional setting, growth trends, natural resources, growth management/land use, community facilities, economic development, and infrastructure. The current plan, adopted in 2005, is available for review at the Samuels Public Library and for purchase at the Warren County Planning Department Office, located at 220 North Commerce Avenue in Front Royal.

The Planning Commission, assisted by the Planning Department staff, develops ordinance revisions and recommends proposed amendments to the Board of Supervisors. It reviews development applications for conformance with the County’s Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances. This includes reviewing conditional use permits, rezoning, and preliminary site plans and addressing other planning issues. The Commission then makes a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors, who make the final decision.

History

Warren County's first countywide planning commission was established by the Board of Supervisors on September 30, 1958. Today, the Warren County Planning Commission consists of five members, one from each magisterial district in the County (North River, Shenandoah, Happy Creek, South River, and Fork). Members are appointed for a term of four years, with terms staggered so no more than two members’ terms are up for nomination in any one year.

Meetings

The Commission meets regularly on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Warren County Government Center. Occasionally, informal work sessions are called to work on specific issues. The public is warmly invited and encouraged to attend all meetings.