Amherst County, Virginia

Locating Your Business

PERMITTED ACTIVITIES

 

New business entry or existing business expansion is permitted in areas zoned for the proposed activity. In general, limited retail and commercial activity is permitted in the Village Center District (designated as V-1). Larger retail and commercial activity and some light manufacturing activities are permitted in the General Commercial District (B-2). Manufacturing, wholesaling, and storage or distribution of products are permitted in the Industrial District (M-1). More information concerning permitted uses is available in Artcle VII of the ordinance governing zoning and subdivisions available on the website of Planning & Zoning.

 

To determine how aspecific property is zoned call the Planning Department at (434) 946-9303.

 

ZONING PERMITS

 

With very few exceptions a zoning permit is required for any new business use. A zoning and land use disturbance checklist and an application for a zoning permit are available online at the web site of the Planning and Zoning Department.

 

BUILDING DEPARTMENT

 

New construction is administered under the Virginia Uniform State Building Code and requires a building permit. An application and instructions for applying for a building permit are available on the website of Building Inspections.

 

In addition to a building permit, depending on the proposed activity, additional county, state, or federal permits may be required. Instructions as to additional required permits may be obtained by calling the Building Official at (434) 946-9302.

 

COMMISSIONER OF THE REVENUE

 

After obtaining a zoning permit application may be made to the Commissioner of the Revenueto obtain a business license. An application is available online at the Commissioner's web site along with other information concerning when filings are necessary with the Circuit Clerk's office and applicable tax rates.

 

NEW TO BUSINESS IN VIRGINIA?

 

If you are considering starting a business or are located in another state and considering Virginia as a location for your business, the state has an excellent Guide to Establishing a Business available on line.