Community Development

Functions of the Community Development Department

The primary function of the Community Development Department is for the administration, interpretation and enforcement of the Tazewell County Zoning Ordinance. The Department is responsible for the issuance of building permits, zoning compliance certificates and regulation of construction and all use activities in the unincorporated areas of Tazewell County. The Department also conducts Code Enforcement and investigates alleged violations and pursues valid violations to gain code compliance under the Administrative Adjudication Ordinance.

Additional Departmental functions include the administration and enforcement of the Subdivision Ordinance, Erosion, Sediment and Storm Water Control Ordinance, Flood Plain Development Ordinance, Adult Use Ordinance, Inoperable Motor Vehicle Ordinance and the Wind Farm Ordinance. Department duties also includes receiving and preparing all Variance, Special Use and Rezoning applications for Public Hearings by the Tazewell County Zoning Board of Appeals, in addition to providing professional and technical assistance to the Zoning Board of Appeals, Land Use Committee and County Board with regards to all Zoning and Land Use issues.

The unincorporated areas of the County are divided into “zoning districts.” Particular types of uses are allowed in each of these districts. The Zoning Ordinance lists these uses. Anyone building in the County should be aware of the underlying zoning of their property, so they can become fully aware of what activities are allowed by the Tazewell County Zoning Code.

The Community Development Department staff cannot give legal advice, but will however provide helpful assistance and direction to all citizens regarding development in the unincorporated areas of Tazewell County.

Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm