Certain neighborhoods in Norfolk have been designated by Norfolk City Council as an Occupancy Permit Area. This designation means that once a housing unit (single-family home or apartment unit) becomes vacant for any reason, it cannot again be occupied until it has been inspected and brought into compliance with the Property Maintenance Code. The unit's compliance status is confirmed by issuance of an Occupancy Permit.

Temporary Occupancy Permits can be issued if the unit is being rehabilitated and can be occupied through the course of the rehabilitation.

Once issued, an Occupancy Permit is valid for the period of tenancy or one year, whichever is longer.

Location:
Granby Municipal Building, 400 Granby Street, Department of Planning and Community Development, Norfolk, VA 23510

Contact:
Codes Administration Office - Occupancy Permits
Telephone: (757) 664-6500
Facsimile: (757) 664-6898

Requirements:

• Inspection must take place 5 days prior to occupancy
• Unit may not be occupied without Occupancy Permit
• Violation of the Ordinance can result in prosecution in Court

Others:
If you are buying a home in Norfolk, your Realtor, or the Multiple Listing Service can tell you if the property is in an Occupancy Permit area.

If you are renting an apartment, your landlord is responsible for complying with the Ordinance.