Bill > HB2142

This bill establishes a new process for refunding land use application fees when a locality contributes to an applicant's failure to meet statutory deadlines. Specifically, if a locality denies or fails to act on a land use application because the applicant missed a statutory deadline, and the locality bears some responsibility for the delay, the locality must either refund the original application fees or waive fees for a new application. To initiate a refund or fee waiver, the applicant must submit a request to the locality's planning director explaining why they believe the locality shares blame for the missed deadline. The locality then has 30 days to approve or deny the request. If the request is denied, the applicant can appeal the decision to the board of zoning appeals within 30 days, and this board has the authority to confirm or overturn the locality's decision. This bill aims to provide a fair mechanism for applicants who experience bureaucratic delays that prevent them from completing land use applications within required timeframes.

Government Affairs

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2142