Land Use and Zoning Issues

Land use and zoning policies shape how Loudoun County grows, develops, and maintains its economic vitality and quality of life. As Loudoun continues to experience significant population and business growth, thoughtful land use and planning is essential to ensure that development remains balanced, sustainable, and responsive to community needs. 

DAAR Recommendations

DAAR believes that land use and zoning policies should reflect current market realities while supporting long-term community goals.

  • DAAR supports zoning and land use frameworks that allow for a full range of housing types, including affordable, attainable, and workforce housing.
  • DAAR supports regulatory flexibility that enables mixed-use development, infill opportunities, and redevelopment of underutilized properties.
  • DAAR supports aligning land use decisions with existing and planned infrastructure, including transportation, utilities, and public services.
  • DAAR supports transparent, predictable, and timely zoning and permitting processes that protect property rights and reduce uncertainty for property owners and developers.
  • DAAR supports balanced growth strategies that encourage commercial and industrial development alongside residential development to sustain Loudoun County’s tax base and economic competitiveness.

Overview

Loudoun County continues to face increasing pressure on its housing supply, transportation systems, and public infrastructure as population and employment growth persist. Land use and zoning policies play a central role in determining whether the county can accommodate growth in a way that is affordable, sustainable, and aligned with community priorities.

Well-calibrated land use policies can promote housing availability, economic vitality, and environmental stewardship, while overly restrictive or outdated regulations risk constraining housing supply, increasing costs, and limiting economic opportunity.

Background

Loudoun County adopted its Comprehensive Plan in 2019 to guide land use and development through 2040. The effectiveness of this plan depends largely on how it is implemented through zoning and regulatory frameworks.

The county is currently undertaking a comprehensive zoning ordinance rewrite intended to modernize outdated regulations and better align land use policy with market conditions, housing needs, and infrastructure planning (estimated completion April 2027).

Recent housing analyses indicate persistent shortages of affordable and attainable housing, particularly for households earning below 100 percent of Area Median Income (AMI), underscoring the need for zoning policies that support increased housing production and diversity.

Our Focus

DAAR supports land use and zoning policies that expand housing opportunity, encourage responsible growth, protect property rights, and align development with infrastructure and economic planning. DAAR is committed to working with Loudoun County leaders, regional partners, and community stakeholders to advance land use strategies that promote a strong, inclusive, and resilient future for Loudoun County.