Proposed Critical Slopes Ordinance Change - Albemarle County

- How do I tell how much of my property is affected by Critical Slopes
o Critical Slopes on every parcel are mapped in the County’s GIS system.
http://gisweb.albemarle.org/GISWeb/Welcome.aspx
By entering your address you will be able view your property. If your property has not
been addressed you can enter the owners name or the Tax Map and Parcel number.
Once the parcel has been found, select “Critical Resource Plan”. The critical slopes on
the property will be shaded.
- How do I determine if the slopes are proposed to be designated as Preserved or Managed
o Staff has prepared maps showing the proposed designations. These maps may be found
by clicking the link below:
• Crozet
• Hollymead
• Neighborhoods 1-2
• Neighborhoods 4-7
• Pantops
• Piney Mountain
• Rivanna
- Will I be able to build an addition to my house
o The staff proposal is that additions will be permitted in both Preserved and Managed
areas. The design standards for the resulting grading will need to be followed.
Back to FAQs
- Will I be able to build a house on a vacant residential lot
o The staff proposal is that no residential lot will be rendered unbuildable due to the
changes in the ordinance. If area is available outside of Preserved or Managed slopes
for the construction of the house that area must be used. If no area is available outside
of Preserved or Managed Slopes then those areas may be used.
- Will I be able to build a shed on my property
o The staff proposal is that sheds will be permitted in both Preserved and Managed areas.
The design standards for the resulting grading will need to be followed.
- Can I grade my property to put in terraces
o The staff proposal is that grading for terraces will be permitted in both Preserved and
Managed areas. The design standards for the resulting grading will need to be followed.
- How can Preserved slopes be disturbed
o The staff proposal includes some exempt activities that may occur on Preserved slopes
provided that standards are met. These activities include things such as utilities and
trails. Any proposal for a non-exempt activity would not be permitted unless the Board
of Zoning Appeals grants a variance based on hardship.
- Will the proposed ordinance affect my ability to subdivide
o The proposed ordinance has no impact on subdivision beyond the existing regulations.
Back to FAQs