{"formats":[{"name":"JSON","format":"json","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-json\/15.2-2260.json"},{"name":"Plain Text","format":"text","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-text\/15.2-2260.txt"},{"name":"XML","format":"xml","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-xml\/15.2-2260.xml"},{"name":"HTML","format":"html","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-html\/15.2-2260.html"}],"law_id":66152,"edition_id":1,"section_id":66152,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2260","catch_line":"Localities may provide for submission of preliminary subdivision plats; how long valid","history":"Code 1950, \u00a7\u00a7 15-789, 15-967.10; 1952, c. 333; 1962, c. 407, \u00a7 15.1-475; 1964, c. 498; 1975, c. 641; 1977, c. 10; 1978, c. 283; 1979, c. 111; 1980, c. 73; 1986, c. 483; 1989, cc. 471, 495; 1990, c. 171; 1992, c. 843; 1993, c. 846; 1996, c. 353; 1997, c.; 2002, c. 530; 2006, c. 461; 2007, c. 202; 2008, cc. 426, 718, 855; 2009, c. 194; 2014, c. 393; 2024, c. 346; 2025, cc. 100, 594.","full_text":"A\n\nNothing in this article shall be deemed to prohibit the local governing body from providing in its ordinance for the mandatory submission of preliminary subdivision plats for tentative approval for plats involving more than 50 lots, provided that any such ordinance provides for the submission of a preliminary subdivision plat for tentative approval at the option of the landowner for plats involving 50 or fewer lots. The designated agent shall complete action on the preliminary subdivision plats within 45 days of submission. However, if approval of a feature or features of the preliminary subdivision plat by a state agency or public authority authorized by state law is necessary, the designated agent shall forward the preliminary subdivision plat to the appropriate state agency or authority for review within five business days of receipt of such preliminary subdivision plat.B\n\nAny state agency or public authority authorized by state law making a review of a preliminary subdivision plat forwarded to it under this section, including, without limitation, the Virginia Department of Transportation and authorities authorized by Chapter 51 (§ 15.2-5100 et seq.), shall complete its review within 30 days of receipt of the preliminary subdivision plat upon first submission and within 30 days for any proposed plat that has previously been disapproved, provided, however, that the time period set forth in § 15.2-2222.1 shall apply to plats triggering the applicability of said section. The Virginia Department of Transportation and authorities authorized by Chapter 51 (§ 15.2-5100 et seq.) shall allow use of public rights-of-way for public street purposes for placement of utilities by permit when practical and shall not unreasonably deny plat approval. If a state agency or public authority authorized by state law does not approve the plat, it shall comply with the requirements, and be subject to the restrictions, set forth in subsection A of § 15.2-2259 with the exception of the time period therein specified. Upon receipt of the approvals from all state agencies, the designated agent shall act upon a preliminary subdivision plat within 20 days.C\n\nThe designated agent shall act on the plat within 30 days after receiving approval from all state agencies. If the designated agent does not approve the preliminary subdivision plat, the designated agent shall (i) set forth in writing all deficiencies in the plat that caused the disapproval by referencing to specific duly adopted ordinances, regulations, or policies and (ii) identify modifications or corrections that will permit approval of the plat. With regard to plats involving commercial or residential property, as those terms are defined in subdivision A 2 of § 15.2-2259, the review process for such plats shall be the same as provided in subdivisions A 2 and A 3 of § 15.2-2259. All actions on preliminary subdivision plats shall be completed by the designated agent and, if necessary, state agencies, within a total of 90 days of submission to the designated agent.D\n\nIf the designated agent fails to approve or disapprove the preliminary subdivision plat within 90 days after it has been officially submitted for approval, the subdivider after 10 days’ written notice to the designated agent, may petition the circuit court for the locality in which the land involved, or the major part thereof, is located to enter an order with respect thereto as it deems proper, which may include directing approval of the plat.E\n\nIf a designated agent disapproves a preliminary subdivision plat and the subdivider contends that the disapproval was not properly based on the ordinance applicable thereto, or was arbitrary or capricious, he may appeal to the circuit court having jurisdiction of such land and the court shall hear and determine the case as soon as may be, provided that his appeal is filed with the circuit court within 60 days of the written disapproval by the designated agent.F\n\nOnce a preliminary subdivision plat is approved, it shall be valid for a period of five years, provided the subdivider (i) submits a final subdivision plat for all or a portion of the property within one year of such approval or such longer period as may be prescribed by local ordinance, and (ii) thereafter diligently pursues approval of the final subdivision plat. “Diligent pursuit of approval” means that the subdivider has incurred extensive obligations or substantial expenses relating to the submitted final subdivision plat or modifications thereto. However, no sooner than three years following such preliminary subdivision plat approval, and upon 90 days’ written notice by certified mail to the subdivider, the designated agent may revoke such approval upon a specific finding of facts that the subdivider has not diligently pursued approval of the final subdivision plat.G\n\nOnce an approved final subdivision plat for all or a portion of the property is recorded pursuant to § 15.2-2261, the underlying preliminary plat shall remain valid for a period of five years from the date of the latest recorded plat of subdivision for the property. The five year period of validity shall extend from the date of the last recorded plat.","order_by":null,"text":{"0":{"id":240295,"text":"Nothing in this article shall be deemed to prohibit the local governing body from providing in its ordinance for the mandatory submission of preliminary subdivision plats for tentative approval for plats involving more than 50 lots, provided that any such ordinance provides for the submission of a preliminary subdivision plat for tentative approval at the option of the landowner for plats involving 50 or fewer lots. The designated agent shall complete action on the preliminary subdivision plats within 45 days of submission. However, if approval of a feature or features of the preliminary subdivision plat by a state agency or public authority authorized by state law is necessary, the designated agent shall forward the preliminary subdivision plat to the appropriate state agency or authority for review within five business days of receipt of such preliminary subdivision plat.","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"next_prefix":"B"},"1":{"id":240296,"text":"Any state agency or public authority authorized by state law making a review of a preliminary subdivision plat forwarded to it under this section, including, without limitation, the Virginia Department of Transportation and authorities authorized by Chapter 51 (§ 15.2-5100 et seq.), shall complete its review within 30 days of receipt of the preliminary subdivision plat upon first submission and within 30 days for any proposed plat that has previously been disapproved, provided, however, that the time period set forth in § 15.2-2222.1 shall apply to plats triggering the applicability of said section. The Virginia Department of Transportation and authorities authorized by Chapter 51 (§ 15.2-5100 et seq.) shall allow use of public rights-of-way for public street purposes for placement of utilities by permit when practical and shall not unreasonably deny plat approval. If a state agency or public authority authorized by state law does not approve the plat, it shall comply with the requirements, and be subject to the restrictions, set forth in subsection A of § 15.2-2259 with the exception of the time period therein specified. Upon receipt of the approvals from all state agencies, the designated agent shall act upon a preliminary subdivision plat within 20 days.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"C"},"2":{"id":240297,"text":"The designated agent shall act on the plat within 30 days after receiving approval from all state agencies. If the designated agent does not approve the preliminary subdivision plat, the designated agent shall (i) set forth in writing all deficiencies in the plat that caused the disapproval by referencing to specific duly adopted ordinances, regulations, or policies and (ii) identify modifications or corrections that will permit approval of the plat. With regard to plats involving commercial or residential property, as those terms are defined in subdivision A 2 of § 15.2-2259, the review process for such plats shall be the same as provided in subdivisions A 2 and A 3 of § 15.2-2259. All actions on preliminary subdivision plats shall be completed by the designated agent and, if necessary, state agencies, within a total of 90 days of submission to the designated agent.","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B","next_prefix":"D"},"3":{"id":240298,"text":"If the designated agent fails to approve or disapprove the preliminary subdivision plat within 90 days after it has been officially submitted for approval, the subdivider after 10 days’ written notice to the designated agent, may petition the circuit court for the locality in which the land involved, or the major part thereof, is located to enter an order with respect thereto as it deems proper, which may include directing approval of the plat.","type":"section","prefixes":["D"],"prefix":"D","entire_prefix":"D","prefix_anchor":"D","level":1,"prior_prefix":"C","next_prefix":"E"},"4":{"id":240299,"text":"If a designated agent disapproves a preliminary subdivision plat and the subdivider contends that the disapproval was not properly based on the ordinance applicable thereto, or was arbitrary or capricious, he may appeal to the circuit court having jurisdiction of such land and the court shall hear and determine the case as soon as may be, provided that his appeal is filed with the circuit court within 60 days of the written disapproval by the designated agent.","type":"section","prefixes":["E"],"prefix":"E","entire_prefix":"E","prefix_anchor":"E","level":1,"prior_prefix":"D","next_prefix":"F"},"5":{"id":240300,"text":"Once a preliminary subdivision plat is approved, it shall be valid for a period of five years, provided the subdivider (i) submits a final subdivision plat for all or a portion of the property within one year of such approval or such longer period as may be prescribed by local ordinance, and (ii) thereafter diligently pursues approval of the final subdivision plat. “Diligent pursuit of approval” means that the subdivider has incurred extensive obligations or substantial expenses relating to the submitted final subdivision plat or modifications thereto. However, no sooner than three years following such preliminary subdivision plat approval, and upon 90 days’ written notice by certified mail to the subdivider, the designated agent may revoke such approval upon a specific finding of facts that the subdivider has not diligently pursued approval of the final subdivision plat.","type":"section","prefixes":["F"],"prefix":"F","entire_prefix":"F","prefix_anchor":"F","level":1,"prior_prefix":"E","next_prefix":"G"},"6":{"id":240301,"text":"Once an approved final subdivision plat for all or a portion of the property is recorded pursuant to § 15.2-2261, the underlying preliminary plat shall remain valid for a period of five years from the date of the latest recorded plat of subdivision for the property. The five year period of validity shall extend from the date of the last recorded plat.","type":"section","prefixes":["G"],"prefix":"G","entire_prefix":"G","prefix_anchor":"G","level":1,"prior_prefix":"F"}},"ancestry":[{"id":14154,"edition_id":1,"name":"Land Subdivision and Development","identifier":"6","label":"article","depth":4,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12774,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:47:04","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:47:04","permalink":{"id":155023,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":14154,"identifier":"6","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6","url":"\/15.2\/II\/22\/6\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12774,"edition_id":1,"name":"Planning, Subdivision of Land and Zoning","identifier":"22","label":"chapter","depth":3,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12733,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:52","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:52","permalink":{"id":154795,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12774,"identifier":"22","token":"15.2\/II\/22","url":"\/15.2\/II\/22\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12733,"edition_id":1,"name":"Powers of Local Government","identifier":"II","label":"subtitle","depth":2,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12720,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:50","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:50","permalink":{"id":152369,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12733,"identifier":"II","token":"15.2\/II","url":"\/15.2\/II\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12720,"edition_id":1,"name":"Counties, Cities and Towns","identifier":"15.2","label":"title","depth":1,"order_by":1,"parent_id":null,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:49","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:49","permalink":{"id":151279,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12720,"identifier":"15.2","token":"15.2","url":"\/15.2\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}}],"structure_contents":[{"id":83925,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2240","catch_line":"Localities to adopt ordinances regulating subdivision and development of land","url":"\/15.2-2240\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2240","metadata":false},{"id":81439,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2241","catch_line":"Mandatory provisions of a subdivision ordinance","url":"\/15.2-2241\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2241","metadata":false},{"id":69877,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2241.1","catch_line":"Bonding requirements for the acceptance of dedication for public use of certain facilities","url":"\/15.2-2241.1\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2241.1","metadata":false},{"id":62783,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2241.2","catch_line":"Bonding provisions for decommissioning of solar energy equipment, facilities, or devices","url":"\/15.2-2241.2\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2241.2","metadata":false},{"id":55314,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2242","catch_line":"Optional provisions of a subdivision ordinance","url":"\/15.2-2242\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2242","metadata":false},{"id":74283,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2243","catch_line":"Payment by subdivider of the pro rata share of the cost of certain facilities","url":"\/15.2-2243\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2243","metadata":false},{"id":69771,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2243.1","catch_line":"Payment by developer or subdivider","url":"\/15.2-2243.1\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2243.1","metadata":false},{"id":79464,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2244","catch_line":"Provisions for subdivision of a lot for conveyance to a family member","url":"\/15.2-2244\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2244","metadata":false},{"id":81830,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2244.1","catch_line":"Additional method for subdivision of a lot for conveyance to a family member","url":"\/15.2-2244.1\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2244.1","metadata":false},{"id":73711,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2244.2","catch_line":"Subdivision of a lot of property held in trust for a family member","url":"\/15.2-2244.2\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2244.2","metadata":false},{"id":61355,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2245","catch_line":"Provisions for periodic partial and final release of certain performance guarantees","url":"\/15.2-2245\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2245","metadata":false},{"id":60263,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2245.1","catch_line":"Stormwater management ponds; removal of trees","url":"\/15.2-2245.1\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2245.1","metadata":false},{"id":84876,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2246","catch_line":"Site plans submitted in accordance with zoning ordinance","url":"\/15.2-2246\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2246","metadata":false},{"id":66691,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2247","catch_line":"Applicability of subdivision ordinance to manufactured homes","url":"\/15.2-2247\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2247","metadata":false},{"id":81106,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2248","catch_line":"Application of certain municipal subdivision regulations beyond corporate limits of municipality","url":"\/15.2-2248\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2248","metadata":false},{"id":73098,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2249","catch_line":"Application of county subdivision regulations in area subject to municipal jurisdiction","url":"\/15.2-2249\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2249","metadata":false},{"id":74890,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2250","catch_line":"Disagreement between county and municipality as to regulations","url":"\/15.2-2250\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2250","metadata":false},{"id":61768,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2251","catch_line":"Local planning commission shall prepare and recommend ordinance; notice and hearing on ordinance","url":"\/15.2-2251\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2251","metadata":false},{"id":81391,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2252","catch_line":"Filing and recording of ordinance and amendments thereto","url":"\/15.2-2252\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2252","metadata":false},{"id":56433,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2253","catch_line":"Preparation and adoption of amendments to ordinance","url":"\/15.2-2253\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2253","metadata":false},{"id":71129,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2254","catch_line":"Statutory provisions effective after ordinance adopted","url":"\/15.2-2254\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2254","metadata":false},{"id":87454,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2255","catch_line":"Administration and enforcement of regulations","url":"\/15.2-2255\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2255","metadata":false},{"id":82493,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2256","catch_line":"Procedure to account for fees for common improvements","url":"\/15.2-2256\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2256","metadata":false},{"id":63483,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2257","catch_line":"Procedure to modify certain covenants in Shenandoah County","url":"\/15.2-2257\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2257","metadata":false},{"id":76956,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2258","catch_line":"Plat of proposed subdivision and site plans to be submitted for approval","url":"\/15.2-2258\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2258","metadata":false},{"id":57717,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2259","catch_line":"Designated agent to act on proposed final plat","url":"\/15.2-2259\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2259","metadata":false},{"id":66152,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2260","catch_line":"Localities may provide for submission of preliminary subdivision plats; how long valid","url":"\/15.2-2260\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2260","metadata":false},{"id":87205,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2261","catch_line":"Recorded plats or final site plans to be valid for not less than five years","url":"\/15.2-2261\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2261","metadata":false},{"id":70475,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2261.1","catch_line":"Recorded plat or final site plans; conflicting zoning conditions","url":"\/15.2-2261.1\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2261.1","metadata":false},{"id":62994,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2262","catch_line":"Requisites of plat","url":"\/15.2-2262\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2262","metadata":false},{"id":62496,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2263","catch_line":"Expedited land development review procedure","url":"\/15.2-2263\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2263","metadata":false},{"id":59776,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2264","catch_line":"Statement of consent to subdivision; execution; acknowledgment and recordation; notice to commissioner of the revenue or board of real estate assessors","url":"\/15.2-2264\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2264","metadata":false},{"id":62030,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2265","catch_line":"Recordation of approved plat as transfer of streets, termination of easements and rights-of-way, etc","url":"\/15.2-2265\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2265","metadata":false},{"id":76484,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2266","catch_line":"Validation of certain plats recorded before January 1, 1975","url":"\/15.2-2266\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2266","metadata":false},{"id":60990,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2267","catch_line":"Petition to restrict access to certain public streets","url":"\/15.2-2267\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2267","metadata":false},{"id":75430,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2268","catch_line":"Localities not obligated to pay for grading, paving, etc","url":"\/15.2-2268\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2268","metadata":false},{"id":63270,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2269","catch_line":"Plans and specifications for utility fixtures and systems to be submitted for approval","url":"\/15.2-2269\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2269","metadata":false},{"id":69505,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2270","catch_line":"Vacation of interests granted to a locality as a condition of site plan approval","url":"\/15.2-2270\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2270","metadata":false},{"id":60575,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2271","catch_line":"Vacation of plat before sale of lot therein; 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county eligible to have certain streets taken into secondary system","url":"\/15.2-2277\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2277","metadata":false},{"id":67221,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2278","catch_line":"Vacating plat of subdivision","url":"\/15.2-2278\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2278","metadata":false},{"id":77000,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2279","catch_line":"Ordinances regulating the building of houses and establishing setback lines","url":"\/15.2-2279\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2279","metadata":false}],"previous_section":{"id":57717,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2259","catch_line":"Designated agent to act on proposed final plat","url":"\/15.2-2259\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2259","metadata":false},"next_section":{"id":87205,"structure_id":14154,"section_number":"15.2-2261","catch_line":"Recorded plats or final site plans to be valid for not less than five years","url":"\/15.2-2261\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2261","metadata":false},"metadata":false,"official_url":"https:\/\/law.lis.virginia.gov\/vacode\/15.2-2260\/","history_text":"

The record of this law\u2019s original creation isn\u2019t available online. It has been modified 22 times. Those modifications are cataloged by \u201cThe Acts of Assembly,\u201d a state publication, by year and chapter. Those modifications that can be read on the General Assembly\u2019s website will be linked accordingly. Those modifications are as follows: in 1952, chapter 333; in 1962, chapter 407; in 1964, chapter 498; in 1975, chapter 641; in 1977, chapter 10; in 1978, chapter 283; in 1979, chapter 111; in 1980, chapter 73; in 1986, chapter 483; in 1989, chapters 471 and 495; in 1990, chapter 171; in 1992, chapter 843; in 1993, chapter 846; in 1996, chapter 353<\/a>; in 2002, chapter 530<\/a>; in 2006, chapter 461<\/a>; in 2007, chapter 202<\/a>; in 2008, chapters 426<\/a>, 718<\/a>, and 855<\/a>; in 2009, chapter 194<\/a>; in 2014, chapter 393<\/a>; in 2024, chapter 346<\/a>; in 2025, chapters 100<\/a> and 594<\/a>.<\/p>","references":[{"id":81394,"section_number":"10.1-606.3","catch_line":"Requirement for development in dam break inundation zones","order_by":null,"url":"\/10.1-606.3\/"},{"id":60413,"section_number":"15.2-2208.1","catch_line":"Damages for unconstitutional grant or denial by locality of certain permits and approvals","order_by":null,"url":"\/15.2-2208.1\/"},{"id":76085,"section_number":"15.2-2209.1","catch_line":"Extension of approvals to address housing crisis","order_by":null,"url":"\/15.2-2209.1\/"},{"id":54128,"section_number":"15.2-2209.1:1","catch_line":"Extension of approvals to address the COVID-19 pandemic","order_by":null,"url":"\/15.2-2209.1_1\/"},{"id":81439,"section_number":"15.2-2241","catch_line":"Mandatory provisions of a subdivision ordinance","order_by":null,"url":"\/15.2-2241\/"}],"refers_to":[{"id":76310,"section_number":"15.2-2222.1","catch_line":"Coordination of state and local transportation planning","order_by":null,"url":"\/15.2-2222.1\/"},{"id":57717,"section_number":"15.2-2259","catch_line":"Designated agent to act on proposed final plat","order_by":null,"url":"\/15.2-2259\/"},{"id":87205,"section_number":"15.2-2261","catch_line":"Recorded plats or final site plans to be valid for not less than five years","order_by":null,"url":"\/15.2-2261\/"},{"id":54398,"section_number":"15.2-5100","catch_line":"Title of chapter","order_by":null,"url":"\/15.2-5100\/"}],"permalink":{"id":155129,"object_type":"law","relational_id":66152,"identifier":"15.2-2260","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2260","url":"\/15.2-2260\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1},"url":"\/15.2-2260\/","token":"15.2\/II\/22\/6\/15.2-2260","dublin_core":{"Title":"Localities may provide for submission of preliminary subdivision plats; how long valid","Type":"Text","Format":"text\/html","Identifier":"\u00a7 15.2-2260","Relation":"Code of Virginia"},"html":"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A.<\/span> Nothing in this article shall be deemed to prohibit the local governing body<\/span> from providing in its ordinance<\/span> for the mandatory submission of preliminary subdivision plats<\/span> for tentative approval for plats involving more than 50 lots, provided that any such ordinance<\/span> provides for the submission of a preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> for tentative approval at the option of the landowner for plats involving 50 or fewer lots. The designated agent<\/span> shall complete action on the preliminary subdivision plats<\/span> within 45 days of submission. However, if approval of a feature or features of the preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> by a state agency or public authority authorized by state law<\/span> is necessary, the designated agent<\/span> shall forward the preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> to the appropriate state agency or authority for review within five business days of receipt of such preliminary subdivision plat<\/span>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

B.<\/span> Any state agency or public authority authorized by state law<\/span> making a review of a preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> forwarded to it under this section, including, without limitation, the Virginia Department of Transportation and authorities authorized by Chapter 51 (§ 15.2-5100<\/a> et seq.), shall complete its review within 30 days of receipt of the preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> upon first submission and within 30 days for any proposed plat that has previously been disapproved, provided, however, that the time period set forth in § 15.2-2222.1<\/a> shall apply to plats triggering the applicability of said section. The Virginia Department of Transportation and authorities authorized by Chapter 51 (§ 15.2-5100<\/a> et seq.) shall allow use of public rights-of-way for public street<\/span> purposes for placement of utilities by permit when practical and shall not unreasonably deny plat approval. If a state agency or public authority authorized by state law<\/span> does not approve the plat, it shall comply with the requirements, and be subject to the restrictions, set forth in subsection A of § 15.2-2259<\/a> with the exception of the time period therein specified. Upon receipt of the approvals from all state agencies, the designated agent<\/span> shall act upon a preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> within 20 days. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

C.<\/span> The designated agent<\/span> shall act on the plat within 30 days after receiving approval from all state agencies. If the designated agent<\/span> does not approve the preliminary subdivision plat<\/span>, the designated agent<\/span> shall (i) set forth in writing all deficiencies in the plat that caused the disapproval by referencing to specific duly adopted ordinances<\/span>, regulations, or policies and (ii) identify modifications or corrections that will permit approval of the plat. With regard to plats involving commercial or residential property, as those terms are defined in subdivision A 2 of § 15.2-2259<\/a>, the review process for such plats shall be the same as provided in subdivisions A 2 and A 3 of § 15.2-2259<\/a>. All actions on preliminary subdivision plats<\/span> shall be completed by the designated agent<\/span> and, if necessary, state agencies, within a total of 90 days of submission to the designated agent<\/span>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

D.<\/span> If the designated agent<\/span> fails to approve or disapprove the preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> within 90 days after it has been officially submitted for approval, the subdivider after 10 days’ written notice to the designated agent<\/span>, may petition<\/span> the circuit<\/span> court<\/span> for the locality<\/span> in which the land involved, or the major part thereof, is located to enter an order<\/span> with respect thereto as it deems proper, which may include directing approval of the plat. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

E.<\/span> If a designated agent<\/span> disapproves a preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> and the subdivider contends that the disapproval was not properly based on the ordinance<\/span> applicable thereto, or was arbitrary or capricious, he may appeal<\/span> to the circuit<\/span> court<\/span> having jurisdiction<\/span> of such land and the court<\/span> shall hear and determine the case as soon as may be, provided that his appeal<\/span> is filed with the circuit<\/span> court<\/span> within 60 days of the written disapproval by the designated agent<\/span>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

F.<\/span> Once a preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> is approved, it shall be valid for a period of five years, provided the subdivider (i) submits a final subdivision plat for all or a portion of the property within one year of such approval or such longer period as may be prescribed by local ordinance<\/span>, and (ii) thereafter diligently pursues approval of the final subdivision plat. “Diligent pursuit of approval<\/span>” means that the subdivider has incurred extensive obligations or substantial expenses relating to the submitted final subdivision plat or modifications thereto. However, no sooner than three years following such preliminary subdivision plat<\/span> approval, and upon 90 days’ written notice by certified mail to the subdivider, the designated agent<\/span> may revoke such approval upon a specific finding<\/span> of facts<\/span> that the subdivider has not diligently pursued approval of the final subdivision plat. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

G.<\/span> Once an approved final subdivision plat for all or a portion of the property is recorded pursuant to § 15.2-2261<\/a>, the underlying preliminary plat shall remain valid for a period of five years from the date of the latest recorded plat of subdivision<\/span> for the property. The five year period of validity shall extend from the date of the last recorded plat. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>","plain_text":" CODE OF VIRGINIA\n\nLOCALITIES MAY PROVIDE FOR SUBMISSION OF PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION PLATS; HOW LONG\nVALID (\u00a7 15.2-2260)\n\nA. Nothing in this article shall be deemed to prohibit the local governing body\nfrom providing in its ordinance for the mandatory submission of preliminary\nsubdivision plats for tentative approval for plats involving more than 50 lots,\nprovided that any such ordinance provides for the submission of a preliminary\nsubdivision plat for tentative approval at the option of the landowner for plats\ninvolving 50 or fewer lots. The designated agent shall complete action on the\npreliminary subdivision plats within 45 days of submission. However, if approval\nof a feature or features of the preliminary subdivision plat by a state agency\nor public authority authorized by state law is necessary, the designated agent\nshall forward the preliminary subdivision plat to the appropriate state agency\nor authority for review within five business days of receipt of such preliminary\nsubdivision plat.\n\nB. Any state agency or public authority authorized by state law making a review\nof a preliminary subdivision plat forwarded to it under this section, including,\nwithout limitation, the Virginia Department of Transportation and authorities\nauthorized by Chapter 51 (§ 15.2-5100 et seq.), shall complete its review\nwithin 30 days of receipt of the preliminary subdivision plat upon first\nsubmission and within 30 days for any proposed plat that has previously been\ndisapproved, provided, however, that the time period set forth in §\n15.2-2222.1 shall apply to plats triggering the applicability of said section.\nThe Virginia Department of Transportation and authorities authorized by Chapter\n51 (§ 15.2-5100 et seq.) shall allow use of public rights-of-way for public\nstreet purposes for placement of utilities by permit when practical and shall\nnot unreasonably deny plat approval. If a state agency or public authority\nauthorized by state law does not approve the plat, it shall comply with the\nrequirements, and be subject to the restrictions, set forth in subsection A of\n§ 15.2-2259 with the exception of the time period therein specified. Upon\nreceipt of the approvals from all state agencies, the designated agent shall act\nupon a preliminary subdivision plat within 20 days.\n\nC. The designated agent shall act on the plat within 30 days after receiving\napproval from all state agencies. If the designated agent does not approve the\npreliminary subdivision plat, the designated agent shall (i) set forth in\nwriting all deficiencies in the plat that caused the disapproval by referencing\nto specific duly adopted ordinances, regulations, or policies and (ii) identify\nmodifications or corrections that will permit approval of the plat. With regard\nto plats involving commercial or residential property, as those terms are\ndefined in subdivision A 2 of § 15.2-2259, the review process for such\nplats shall be the same as provided in subdivisions A 2 and A 3 of §\n15.2-2259. All actions on preliminary subdivision plats shall be completed by\nthe designated agent and, if necessary, state agencies, within a total of 90\ndays of submission to the designated agent.\n\nD. If the designated agent fails to approve or disapprove the preliminary\nsubdivision plat within 90 days after it has been officially submitted for\napproval, the subdivider after 10 days’ written notice to the designated\nagent, may petition the circuit court for the locality in which the land\ninvolved, or the major part thereof, is located to enter an order with respect\nthereto as it deems proper, which may include directing approval of the plat.\n\nE. If a designated agent disapproves a preliminary subdivision plat and the\nsubdivider contends that the disapproval was not properly based on the ordinance\napplicable thereto, or was arbitrary or capricious, he may appeal to the circuit\ncourt having jurisdiction of such land and the court shall hear and determine\nthe case as soon as may be, provided that his appeal is filed with the circuit\ncourt within 60 days of the written disapproval by the designated agent.\n\nF. Once a preliminary subdivision plat is approved, it shall be valid for a\nperiod of five years, provided the subdivider (i) submits a final subdivision\nplat for all or a portion of the property within one year of such approval or\nsuch longer period as may be prescribed by local ordinance, and (ii) thereafter\ndiligently pursues approval of the final subdivision plat. “Diligent\npursuit of approval” means that the subdivider has incurred extensive\nobligations or substantial expenses relating to the submitted final subdivision\nplat or modifications thereto. However, no sooner than three years following\nsuch preliminary subdivision plat approval, and upon 90 days’ written\nnotice by certified mail to the subdivider, the designated agent may revoke such\napproval upon a specific finding of facts that the subdivider has not diligently\npursued approval of the final subdivision plat.\n\nG. Once an approved final subdivision plat for all or a portion of the property\nis recorded pursuant to § 15.2-2261, the underlying preliminary plat shall\nremain valid for a period of five years from the date of the latest recorded\nplat of subdivision for the property. The five year period of validity shall\nextend from the date of the last recorded plat.\n\nHISTORY: Code 1950, \u00a7\u00a7 15-789, 15-967.10; 1952, c. 333; 1962, c. 407, \u00a7\n15.1-475; 1964, c. 498; 1975, c. 641; 1977, c. 10; 1978, c. 283; 1979, c. 111;\n1980, c. 73; 1986, c. 483; 1989, cc. 471, 495; 1990, c. 171; 1992, c. 843; 1993,\nc. 846; 1996, c. 353; 1997, c.; 2002, c. 530; 2006, c. 461; 2007, c. 202; 2008,\ncc. 426, 718, 855; 2009, c. 194; 2014, c. 393; 2024, c. 346; 2025, cc. 100, 594.","edition":{"id":1,"name":"2025","slug":"2025","date_created":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","date_modified":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","current":1,"order_by":1,"last_import":null}}