Virginia congregations can build affordable homes without a rezoning

Many Virginia churches, mosques, synagogues and nonprofits own land they’d like to turn into affordable homes. Until now, that usually meant asking the local government for a rezoning or a special permit, which can take years and can be voted down. Starting Jan. 1, 2027, this law lets them build by right. If a project meets the law’s rules, local staff must approve it without a rezoning, special permit or any other discretionary vote.

The rules ensure the homes go to people who need them. At least 60% of the units must be affordable, which means renting to households earning up to 80% of the area median income or selling to buyers earning up to 120%. The homes must stay affordable for at least 30 years. The landowner must have owned the property for at least five years, and the project must fit height and density limits tied to the buildings around it. Renters and buyers apply to the housing itself once it’s built. All homes built under the law are subject to local real property taxes after completion.

Del. Josh Cole and Sen. Jeremy McPike carried identical bills over objections from county governments, which wanted to keep control over local zoning. Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed both in April 2026. The law runs until Jan. 1, 2031, when it expires unless lawmakers renew it.