Richmond re-extends feedback period for major zoning plan

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond has once again extended the feedback period on a citywide plan that looks to upgrade its outdated zoning ordinance and revamp the River City’s neighborhoods.

Residents now have until March 1 to explore the city's interactive tools aimed at helping community members digest the second draft of Richmond's "Code Refresh" and provide feedback on the plan. The comment period was originally scheduled to close on Feb. 15.

The initiative began in February 2024 as an effort to improve walkability, upgrade zoning codes that haven't been updated in decades and beautify the city's neighborhoods. Code Refresh is part of a comprehensive plan looking to strengthen affordable housing programs in the city.

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The first draft of Code Refresh was released in June 2025. After collecting feedback from more than 4,500 people, the city revised the proposal and published a second draft in November 2025.

The current draft featured a variety of changes, including new tree canopy requirements and zoning tweaks to prevent developers from knocking down single-family homes only to build a duplex immediately.

Mayor Danny Avula said the timeline shift ensures residents have enough time and space to share feedback, as "the recent and persistent winter weather has been challenging for our community engagement efforts."

For more information, visit Richmond's Code Refresh.