Frequently Asked Questions

Licenses are purchased annually. They are valid for one year, beginning January 1 and expire on December 31.

Licenses may be purchased after November 1st of each year.

Office of the City Treasurer, 1st Floor, City Hall Building 757-664-7800 Norfolk Animal Care Center, 5585 Sabre Road 757-441-5505 

Section 6.1-8 of the Norfolk City Code allows no more than four adult dogs and four adult cats in any one dwelling unit or premises within the city limits.

Duplicate licenses may only be issued through the Treasurer's Office. You must bring your current animal license certificate. There is a processing fee of $1.00 for a duplicate license.

Generally speaking, improvements increasing the market value of a property will also increase the assessed value. The following are typical items that will increase the assessed value of your property:

• Added rooms or garages
• Substantial modernization of kitchens or baths
• Central air conditioning
• Fireplaces
• Extensive renovations or remodeling

Proper and regular maintenance will help retain the market value of your property. Generally, your assessment will not be increased for individual minor repairs such as the following; however, a combination of several of these items could result in an increased assessment:

• Repairing or replacing the roof
• Repairing porches and steps
• Repairing original siding
• Patching or repairing interior walls and/or ceilings
• Exterior painting
• Replacing electrical fixtures
• Replacing the furnace
• Exterior awnings and shutters
• Weather stripping, screens, storm windows, doors
• Exterior landscaping including lawns, shrubbery, trees, flowers

• Street excavations
• Work sites / work zones in the roadway
• Roadway, sidewalk, curb, and gutter restoration
• Traffic control in accordance with the Virginia Work Area Protection Manual

• Franchise utility agreements
• Utility relocations
• Encroachments
• Driveways
• Street re-paving
• Graffiti in the ROW
• ADA accessibility
• Pedestrian ramps
• Pedestrian safety
• Illegal signs

Norfolk Department of Human Services Office - 741 Monticello Ave Norfolk, VA 23510

No, the police will not evict someone from your residence. Evicting someone from your home is a civil issue and Norfolk police has extremely limited power reference civil issues. You need to call Norfolk General District Civil Courts at 757-664-4913 or 757-664-4914. The civil courts are located in the Public Safety Building (811E. City Hall Ave). This is the same building that houses the jail and Traffic / Criminal court.

View Information on Civil Process

For information regarding inmates, please visit the City of Norfolk Sheriff. 

The Norfolk Police Department maintains the website where photographs and information of wanted people are displayed. You can use the Wanted Persons webpage to search for wanted persons using the Warrant Inquiry system. When you arrive at the site, simply click on the letter that corresponds with the suspected wanted person’s last name.

The City’s ACFR is available for viewing online. If you would like a hard copy of the document from the most recent year Click Here

Questions about payment of property taxes should be directed to the City Treasurer’s office 757-664-7800. Questions regarding the assessment of Personal Property taxes should be directed to the Commissioner of the Revenue, at 757-664-7884, and regarding the assessment of Real Estate taxes should be directed to the City Assessor’s office at 757-664-4732.  Additional information may be found on the City Treasurer’s page.

Risk management pertains to how the City addresses the loss of the City's human, material, and monetary resources and involves the systematic and continuous identification of loss exposures, an analysis of exposures in terms of frequency and severity probabilities, an application of sound risk control and safety procedures, and financing/handling of risk mitigation strategies consistent with the City's financial resources.  Risk Management includes a variety of operations: Non-litigated tort claims, claims administration, employee safety, auto liability, and all property and casualty programs (both insured and self-insured).  The Risk Management Division supports two key business functions focused on risk financing:  These include internal management consulting regarding insurance, risk analysis, and risk financing alternatives and administrative oversight of liability claims.  The Risk Manager oversees these operations and handles the negotiation and acquisition of insurance.

To file a report or make a claim, contact:

City Attorney’s Office

810 Union St., Ste. 900

Norfolk, VA 23510

Phone: (757) 664-4529

Fax: (757) 664-4201

Email: claims@norfolk.gov

For damages due to conditions of public rights of way (i.e., streets / sidewalk / drainage lines) and sewer / utility lines / potholes / fallen trees contact the City Attorney’s Office via email at claims@norfolk.gov.

Reasonable Mitigation will be determined by the facts and circumstances of your claim. You should take steps to minimize the extent of loss, where possible, as to not create additional damages. This may include filing a claim with your insurance company or paying for some repairs out-of-pocket while the investigation is ongoing.  You should retain photographs, estimates, and receipts related to any mitigation efforts.

Norfolk Public Schools maintains a risk management division separate from the city.  Contact their office:

Norfolk Public Schools

Director, Risk Management

800 E. City Hall Avenue

Norfolk, VA 23510

Phone: (757) 628-3856

Fax: (757) 628-3817

The City’s occupational safety and industrial hygiene functions are administered by the Human Resources Department.  Contact the City Safety Office:

City Safety Officer

City of Norfolk

Human Resources Department

800 East City Hall Avenue

Norfolk, VA 23510

Ph: (757) 664-4495

Fax: (757) 664-4078

1. A Citizen Service Advisor will review and enter your incoming request into the system and assign the request to the appropriate department to address your needs.
2. An initial response will be issued to you from the Citizen Service Advisor
3. The department will respond to the request generated by the Citizen Service Advisor
4. Upon response from the department the Citizen Service Advisor will provide a follow up response to you
5. The Citizen Service Advisor will continue to monitor the request and/or complaint until the concern is completed and provide response to you when the concern is closed

Interested in getting involved with or starting a Neighborhood Watch Program in your neighborhood? 

Start by contacting your NPD Community Resource Officer (CRO) to learn more and ask questions you may have. Next, partner with your neighbors to stay aware of suspicious activity.  Finally, report suspicious behaviors to the E911 non-emergency number by calling 757-441-5610. 

What is a Community Resource Officer (CRO)?

Your Community Resource Officer (CRO) is your neighborhood's direct link to the Norfolk Police Department. Don’t know who your neighborhood's CRO is? Email police@norfolk.gov and we’ll connect you with the officer assigned to your neighborhood.

To request a police officer attend your event or provide a safety briefing please email police@norfolk.gov or call 757-664-3277. 

If you're having an event in the City of Norfolk and wish to have NPD Mascot Justice attend as a special guest, please complete the attachment and a member of our team will contact you. 

Vehicle Safety

• Always lock your car and close the windows.
• Never leave valuables, especially firearms, in your car unattended. Take them with you.
• Park in well-lit areas and be alert when walking to or from your vehicle.
• Never leave your keys in a running or unattended vehicle.

Home Safety

• Keep doors and windows locked.
• Install motion-activated lights and visible security cameras.
• Trim trees and shrubs near entryways to eliminate dark spots.
• Don’t advertise vacation plans on social media until after you return.

 Online & Cyber Safety

• Be cautious about sharing personal information on social media.
• Educate children and teens about online safety and privacy.

Personal Safety

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
• Avoid distractions such as texting when walking in public spaces.
• Let someone know your plans if you're going out alone.
• Trust your instincts! If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation.

Stormwater is a term used to describe water from precipitation events. Stormwater that does not soak into the ground becomes surface runoff which flows into the waterways either directly or through stormwater pipes and outlets. Stormwater runoff usually contains pollutants and ends up untreated in our local waterways.

Stormwater runoff is one of the leading causes of water pollution in the United States. Stormwater will pick up dirt, trash, oil, grease, pet waste, chemicals, and any other pollutant as it flows over roads and lawns.

Stormwater runoff does NOT go to a wastewater treatment plant before entering our recreational or drinking waters. It is transported by drains, streets, and gutters directly into our rivers, ocean, and the Chesapeake Bay.

The Division of Environmental Storm Water uses multiple programs to fulfill its comprehensive mission of improving water quality and minimizing flooding, while complying with our federal and state permits.

• Best Management Practices (BMP) Inspection & Maintenance
• Capital Improvement Planning, Design & Construction
• Ditch Maintenance
• Environmental Investigation and Enforcement
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping
• Structure & Pipe Repair and Cleaning
• Pump Station Maintenance
• Site Plan Review and Construction Inspections
• Street Sweeping
• City Vacant Lot and Dead-end Cleaning
• Public Education and Outreach

The City must comply with state and federal water quality regulations. The Storm Water fee provides a dedicated funding source for these services which include installation and maintenance of storm drains and infrastructure, inlets and ditches, and pumping stations. It also covers state programs such as erosion and sediment control that are meant to protect the Chesapeake Bay.

Stormwater (SW) fees are assessed at a daily rate determined annually and are lienable, meaning they are treated similarly to real estate taxes. In contrast, utility (UT) charges are based on water consumption and are billed per cubic foot of water used.

Stormwater fees are assessed based on the presence of impervious surfaces on a property, not occupancy. Impervious surfaces include structures such as houses, garages, sheds, driveways, sidewalks, and other paved or hardscaped areas that prevent water from naturally soaking into the ground. Even if a property is vacant, the impervious area still contributes to storm water runoff, which impacts the city’s drainage system and water quality. Therefore, stormwater fees still apply.

HRSD manages the telephone and online payment system for utility accounts. While you can make payments for utility services through HRSD, stormwater accounts are handled separately.

• To make a payment by phone: Call 1-844-257-6063
• To register and manage your storm water account online: Visit  https://myaccount.hrsd.com

If you are making a payment specifically to clear storm water fees for a property title transfer, please contact our office before submitting payment:

• 📧 Email: stormwaterinquiry@norfolk.gov
• 📞 Phone: 757-664-4633

These payments must be processed directly to the stormwater service. Failure to contact our office may result in delays or issues with obtaining a clear title.

The City of Norfolk’s Parking Division is an enterprise fund, which falls under the Department of General Services. The Parking Division operates over 19,000 public parking spaces located in 14 garages , 10 lots and more than 500 on-street spaces.

Safe, convenient and affordable parking is always available. The Division of Parking, through the efforts of all employees dedicated to excellence, shall provide safe, convenient and affordable parking services to the citizens, visitors and businesses in Norfolk.

The city’s parking system consists of more than 19,000 public parking spaces located in 14 garages, 10 lots, and more than 500 on-street metered spaces.

Division of Parking Enforcement Officers, Norfolk Police Department, and ODU Police monitor and enforce parking.

• Provides convenient on-street parking for business patrons.
• Encourages turnover of parking spaces for the short-term visitor.

Many venues in the city are host to special events throughout the year. In order to accommodate convenient exiting from parking facilities at special events, the Parking Division puts into place a collect-on-entry operation.

The collect-on-entry rates are:

• All facilities collect-on-entry, special event rate -- $5.00 and $10.00 per vehicle*
• *MacArthur Center Garages special event fee -- $2.00 per vehicle
• Special COE -- $12.00 per vehicle*
• Special Rate -- $2.00 per vehicle
• 6 PM - 9 PM -- $5.00
• After 9 PM -- $7.00 per vehicle
• COE -- $5.00 and $10.00 per vehicle*
• Harbor Park -- $6.00 per vehicle

In connection with the operation of its attendant-operated facilities, the Division of Parking has established the Discount Stamp Program. Merchants / businesses may purchase discount stamps in booklets at a 50% discount of their face value for their patrons to use when exiting an attendant-operated facility in order to defray - in whole or in part - parking charges for up to four hours. This program is a successful example of public / private cooperation. Validations by City Code cannot be used to provide parking for employees.

Allied Security provides garage monitoring. Supplementall security provided by the Norfolk Police Department.

Discount validation tickets are purchased through the Division of Parking’s Customer Service Center located at 222 E. Main Street, Norfolk, Virginia 23510. Orders may be placed in person.. Allow a minimum of one business day for order printing and processing. Payment is made at the Parking Customer Service Center when discount validation tickets are retrieved. For more information, please call 757-664-6222.

• Insert ParkCard into meter in direction shown by arrow
• Card balance will flash four times
• Meter time will then appear, increasing incrementally
• Remove card when desired time is displayed

• Must be owned by the City of Norfolk (Norfolk Public Schools sites included)
• Must be at least a quarter acre in size (roughly a quarter of a football field) or add to an existing forested area
• Must meet certain environmental conditions

Living on one of Norfolk's drinking water reservoirs is worthwhile, but also comes with challenges and restrictions.  Take some time and review the other Questions in this section.

Be aware that you are not purchasing property up to the waters edge. Norfolk owns property around each of its reservoirs and it can vary.  For Lake Whitehurst and Little Creek Reservoir, the City generally owns 25 feet from the normal water elevation and 10 feet from the normal elevation for Lake Smith.  Even with erosion, the City still owns this property. For Lake Lawson, Western Branch Reservoir, Lake Prince, and Burnt Mills there are fixed property lines.  Check your property plat.

If the property you are purchasing has an existing bulkhead, riprap revetment, pier, fence or any other structure on Norfolk's property, you will need to secure a Shoreline Protection Permit.  Even though the previous owner has a permit, it will not transfer to you.  These structures come with the sale of the property and you are responsible for their upkeep and maintenance.  Please note the Liability Insurance requirements and it is recommended that this be in place when you Close on the property.  Not all insurance companies will include a municipality as an Additional Insured on a Homeowner Policy and you don't want to have to make a change after Closing.

If you are interested in adding a pier, shoreline protection or other structure, review the Shoreline Protection Permit application package and contact us with any questions.

We know that you would like to see the water.  However, Norfolk does not allow the removal of trees and underbrush of any size without the proper permits.  In many cases, we will allow the trimming of lower limbs to create a "view corridor" but not allow tree removal.  Call us to discuss your proposed project before undertaking any work.

Boating and fishing are permitted, but there are limits on these activities.  Swimming is prohibited!  A boat, canoe, or kayak can be placed into the reservoirs with motors no larger than 10-horsepower.  All boats used on Norfolk reservoirs are required to have a Norfolk Boat Permit.  Types of boats that are not allowed in the reservoirs include  Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs), sailboats, houseboats, inflatables of any kind, and personal water craft (ex: jet skis), surfboards and similar devices.  Don't forget that this reservoir is part of the drinking water system.

If you have more questions, email us at NorfolkReservoirs@norfolk.gov or call us at (757) 441-5678.

Powered by Froala Editor

• Lake Wright - Norfolk (not open to the public)
• Lake Whitehurst - Norfolk
• Little Creek Reservoir - Virginia Beach
• Lake Smith - Virginia Beach
• Lake Lawson - Virginia Beach
• Lake Prince - Suffolk and Isle of Wight
• Western Branch Reservoir- Suffolk
• Lake Burnt Mills - Suffolk and Isle of Wight

Yes. There is a "strip" of land around each reservoir that is owned by the city.  It is not an easement.  The amount of land owned varies with the reservoir because of when they were built, and how property was acquired. Generally, there is a 25-foot strip around Lake Whitehurst and Little Creek Reservoir, and a 10-foot strip around Lake Smith. Even with erosion, Norfolk still owns the property around the reservoirs. 

For Lakes Lawson, Prince, Western Branch, and Burnt Mills, the amount varies. Check your property plat for an indication of what Norfolk owns. A professional survey may be required to determine the exact amount of property owned by the City of Norfolk.

No. Norfolk owns the property and should be treated as your backyard neighbor. Don’t do to city property what you wouldn’t do to your next-door neighbor.

All uses of the city's property requires permission.  We are your backyard neighbor and should be treated the same as the next-door neighbor.  We do not allow the removal of trees of any size, bushes, shrubs, or any other material without a permit. A formal landscape plan may be required if extensive work is desired. We would prefer that the property be left as a natural buffer to help protect the reservoir water quality. We understand that you may want a view of the water and will work with you. Contact us at (757) 441-5678 if you have any questions or concerns.

Powered by Froala Editor

The short answer is "No". Remember, we are your backyard neighbor and a property owner. The property around the reservoir is not an easement, but owned by the city. However, we understand that you want to be able to see the reservoir and we can work with you to create a "view corridor". Selective removal of lower tree limbs and trimming of bushes may be allowed, with the proper permits. 

What about trees that are leaning or already on the ground or in the water? We will meet with you to discuss your concerns. 

To discuss your concerns and set up a meeting, call (757) 441-5678.

Powered by Froala Editor

No, trees are excellent habitat for the wildlife. While we don't allow limbs and woody debris to be placed on the shoreline for stabilization, trees that have naturally fallen into the lake do not pose a problem.  These trees provide habitat for fish, birds, and turtles. Removal of trees of any size is prohibited without the proper permits. If you have a question about a tree in the lake or the safety of a tree on city of Norfolk property around the reservoirs, please call us at (757) 441-5678.

Powered by Froala Editor

Yes. The best method for protecting the shoreline from erosion is to leave the shoreline in a natural condition. Rooted plants are the best defense. Planting may be required to help reestablish the vegetation and this is the recommended option. However, we understand that some areas need extra protection. We have procedures in place that will allow for the construction of a rip-rap revetment. 

A permit is required before any work can take place. All shoreline work will require a Shoreline Protection Permit, which includes a Landscape Plan to mitigate impact to city property and the reservoir. Permit applications can be obtained by calling (757) 441-5678 or from the internet.

Powered by Froala Editor

Yes. A boat, canoe, or kayak can be placed into the reservoirs. Motors no larger than 10-horsepower may be used. If a boat with a larger motor is put in the reservoir, the larger motor must be disabled. All boats used on Norfolk reservoirs are required to have a Norfolk Boat Permit. For information on obtaining a permit, see the Boat Permit page. 

Types of boats that are not allowed in the reservoirs are Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs), sailboats, houseboats, inflatables of any kind, and personal water craft (ex: jet skis), surfboards and similar devices.

Powered by Froala Editor

Boats are not to be moved across city property. However, if you have a pier, you can keep a boat there. A permit to build a pier can be obtained by calling (757) 441-5678 or from the internet. There are city maintained boat launches that can be used by the public. For location information and maps, visit the Fishing and Boating page.

Powered by Froala Editor

Boat Permits are valid for the calendar year (January 1 through December 31). There is no provision to pro-rate the fee.

• Norfolk Residents - $20
• Non-Norfolk Residents - $40
• Norfolk Employees (ID required) & Seniors (62+) - $10
• Daily Permits - $5 per day

No, we do not have a provision to pro-rate the cost. Permits are good January 1 through December 31.

Boat Permit locations

You can purchase the daily permits at the same locations as the annual permits.

The daily permit cost is $5.00 per day. Yes, the permit can be purchased in advance and will be dated for the day of use.

If you walk into the any of the facilities selling permits, you will be able to leave with your permit. If you send the application in by mail, please allow 10-14 days for processing and mail.

Lake Whitehurst, Lake Smith, Lake Lawson, Little Creek Reservoir, Western Branch Reservoir, Lake Prince, and Lake Burnt Mills.  All access to Lake Wright is prohibited, including fishing from shore. Lake Wright at the Premium Outlets is not open to the public.

You can launch your boat from our public boat ramps. Additional information and the locations can be found at our Fishing and Boating page.

Yes. All boats in Norfolk’s reservoirs require a permit.

Fishing from shore is limited to select areas.  The Lake Lawson/Lake Smith Natural Area in Virginia Beach offers numerous opportunities to fish from shore.  Shore fishing is also allowed at the Lake Prince boat ramp in Suffolk. Shore fishing is strictly prohibited from all other areas.  A Virginia Fishing license is required.

Powered by Froala Editor

When a lien is issued a copy is mailed to the taxpayer. There are no provisions in the Code of Virginia that requires a specific warning to the taxpayer regarding an impending lien.

This is not a garnishment it is a tax lien. The Code of Virginia section 58.1-3952 gives the Treasurer the authority to take such action without a court hearing.

• Voucher #1 - May 1
• Voucher #2 - June 15
• Voucher #3 - September 15
• Voucher #4 - January 15

Real estate taxes are assessed by the City Assessor's Office. If you have any questions regarding your assessment you may contact the office of the Real Estate Assessor at 757-664-4732.

Real Estate Tax rates are set by City Council and approved annually.  Effective July 1, 2024 the tax rate is as follows:

• The real estate tax rate is $1.23 per $100.00 of the assessed value.
• The business district tax rate is $1.39 per $100.00 of the assessed value.

Real estate taxes are payable in four installments on the following dates:

• First quarter (July 1st through September 30th) - Due September 30th
• Second quarter (October 1st through December 31st) - Due December 5th
• Third quarter (January 1st through March 31st) - Due March 31st
• Fourth quarter (April 1st through June 30th) - Due June 5th

Notify the Treasurer’s Office via fax, email or regular mail, with a written request for future billings to your mortgage company. Please reference your account number, property address, and the name, address and telephone number of the mortgage company. You can also change the billing address by using our e-services portal.  If you have any additional questions please call 757-664-7849.

Penalty is calculated at 10% or $10.00 whichever is greater, and interest is calculated at the rate of 8% per year.

If you have a change of address and/or a change in your tax billing status, please provide written notification to the Treasurer’s Office so that your records can be updated. You can also update billing information by using the e-services portal.

Yes, Norfolk residents 65 years of age or older or permanently and totally disabled may be eligible for Real Estate Tax Relief or Deferral. There are certain eligibility requirements: please contact the Department of Human Services (757-823-1130) or visit their web page for more information.  Applications for Tax Relief or Deferral must be filed each year.

In accordance with Norfolk City code section 24-209.2, “in the event of a deferral of real estate taxes, the accumulated amount of taxes deferred shall be paid to the city by the vendor upon the sale of the dwelling or from the estate of the decedent within one year after the death of the last owner thereof who qualified for the deferral”. 

Contact the Treasurer's Real Estate tax department at 757-664-7849

All questions regarding the sale of real estate for payment of delinquent taxes may be directed to:

• F. Sullivan Callahan, Esq.
  327 Duke St.
  Norfolk, VA 23510
  Phone: 757-623-5000
• Robert Reed, Esq.
  555 Main St. 14th Floor
  Norfolk, VA 23510
  Phone: 757-625-1214
• Jason Dunn, Esq.
  303 34th Street, Unit 6
  Virginia Beach, VA 23451
  Phone: 757-937-0872

For information on the next public auction, please visit VA Auction Company. Any upcoming auction dates will be posted on this site along with the parcels up for sale.

Personal property taxes are those taxes assessed by the Commissioner of the Revenue for vehicles (includes autos, trucks, motorcycles and utility trailers), recreational vehicles, boats, aircraft, mobile homes, and leased vehicles, as well as business furniture, fixtures, equipment and machinery, and tools used in the manufacturing process.

If the vehicle is in your name only and you are Non-Virginia resident, you qualify for exemption., you must however provide a current L.E.S. (Leave and Earnings Statement) or W-2 to the Commissioner of the Revenue. If you are taxed for multiple years, you must provide an LES or W-2 for each year. For more information on the requirements please visit the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue or contact their office at 757-664-7884/ CORMILINQ@norfolk.gov

Personal property taxes and business tangible personal property taxes are due by June 5. Bills will be mailed to the taxpayer's last known address. It is the taxpayer's responsibility to advise the Commissioner of the Revenue of an address change. Failure to receive a bill does not relieve the taxpayer of the responsibility for paying taxes on time.

Supplemental personal property tax bills are due on March 31st and December 5th.

In accordance with Virginia State Code §46.2-752(J), the Treasurer has the authority to withhold state registrations for vehicles owned, or co-owned, by you until all delinquent personal property taxes are paid in full. In addition, an administrative fee in the amount of $30.00, and a DMV Stop fee in the amount of $25.00, will be imposed upon you and each owner to cover the cost of this enforcement action. If your account(s) get flagged with a DMV Stop, you will NOT be permitted to pay by personal check.

You must first notify the Department of Motor Vehicles to change your mailing address and garage jurisdiction. Then notify the Commissioner of the Revenue of your residence change and the date you moved from Norfolk. Your tax bill will be adjusted accordingly and a new prorated bill may be mailed to you if necessary.  To report the move, sale, or disposal of a vehicle online to the Commissioner of the Revenue, please click here.

You must first notify the Department of Motor Vehicles and then the Commissioner of the Revenue of your change and the date you sold or disposed of your vehicle. To report the move, sale, or disposal of a vehicle online to the Commissioner of the Revenue, please click here.

The personal property tax rate varies by type of vehicle.  Please visit the Commissioner of the Revenue for the most current tax rate information.

License fees are imposed pursuant to the Code of Virginia, 46.2-752. For more information on this policy please read the Complete Streets Policy (PDF).

All questions regarding the assessment of your vehicle must be directed to the Commissioner of the Revenue. For more information, please visit the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue, or contact their office at 757-664-7884 / CORPP@norfolk.gov

Pursuant to §58.1-3916 of the Code of Virginia and §24-6(a) of the Norfolk City Code, penalty for failure to pay your personal property tax by the due date is 10% or $10.00, whichever is greater. Such penalty shall be assessed on the first day following the day such taxes are due. Interest begins to accrue on the first day of each month following the due date at the rate of 8% per year.

Notify the Department of Motor Vehicles of your new address and contact the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue regarding the requirements of registering your vehicle in Norfolk.

Taxes on personal property for a business, trade, or profession, assessed by the Commissioner of the Revenue. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Furniture and fixtures
• Equipment
• Machinery and tools

Business personal property tax returns must be filed with the Commissioner of the Revenue by March 1. For more information, you may visit the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue, or contact them at 757-664-7886 / CORBT@norfolk.gov 

The Commissioner of the Revenue is responsible for the assessment of taxes on individual and business vehicles, recreational vehicles, boats, mobile homes, aircraft, and rental tax on daily passenger cars.  For current rates and additional information, please visit the Commissioner of the Revenue.

The Treasurer utilizes several methods for collection of delinquent taxes, including, but not limited to, tax liens, distress warrants and withholding state vehicle registration renewal with the Department of Motor Vehicles as well as debt set off of your state income tax return or lottery winnings. (See §§58.1-3919, 58.1-3941, 58.1-3952, 58.1-520 thru 58.1-534, 58.1-4026 and §46.2-752(J), Code of Virginia).

All personal property taxes are paid to the Norfolk City Treasurer's Office, located on the first floor of the City Hall Building, 810 Union Street Norfolk, Va 23510. The office is open to the public Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. (except for holidays) 

The Personal Property Tax Relief Act of 1998 provides tax relief for any passenger car, motorcycle or pickup or panel truck having a registered gross weight of less than 7,501 pounds. The vehicle must be owned or leased by an individual and not used for business purposes. Learn more about the Personal Property Tax Relief Act.

Click Here to return to the Commissioner of Revenue's Home Page

Use Norfolk Air and type in your address to see if your property falls within a flood zone.

Drainage systems on private property are the owner's responsibility. Be sure to maintain your gutters and downspouts. It's also important to remove root blockages and fix damaged pipes on your property. Rake up leaves so they don't clog the storm drain in the street this includes the verge and curb line in front of your property. And remember "Only Rain Down the Storm Drain".

Take extra steps to protect your health if the flood water contains sewage. Sewage contains germs that may cause stomach or intestinal infections if swallowed. Contact with sewage may also cause infections in cuts, scrapes and eyes.

To prevent infection you should:

• Keep children, pets and people with compromised immune systems out of the water
• Throw away any food (including packaged food) that was touched by flood water.
• Call the Department of Utilities at 757-823-1000 to report sewage issues.

You can go to the City of Norfolk's Cares Assistance Center page. Follow the links to the proper on-line complaint form. It may also be completed anonymously.

The grounds are open everyday from sunrise to sunset.

Riverside and Forest Lawn cemetery offices are open Monday-Saturday from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm.  Funeral arrangements are by appointment only. Masks are required in all cemetery offices. There are no walk-in services like grave locations. Please visit our website www.norfolk.gov/cemeteries or call us for more information.

Calvary and Elmwood cemeteries are closed to the public. Calvary funeral arrangements are by appointment only.

Yes, funeral arrangements are by appointment only. Please do not visit one of our offices without calling first. We do not accept appointments before 9:00 am or after 2 pm.

We do not offer walk-in services like grave locations. Please visit our website www.norfolk.gov/cemeteries or call us for more information.

No, we do not do buy backs, sales or exchanges. Some owners have had success listing their property on Craigslist, Facebook or even local churches. Once you have a buyer, please contact us for further direction on the transfer of ownership.

At this time we do not offer notary services.

No, A death certificate may be obtained through the Department of Vital Statistics or the funeral home.

• http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/vital-records/
• General Information Number: 804-662-620

We do not accept, sell or install headstones. We do install foundations. Contact a (licensed & insured) local monument company for assistance. 

• Dolman's Monument & Bronze, Portsmouth  757-488-0018
• ESA Monument Company, Chesapeake  757-725-0407
• Nelson Monument, Portsmouth 757-237-0735
• Norfolk Monument, Norfolk 757-853-7608
• Ogg Stoneworks, Portsmouth 757-399-4651
• Seaboard Memorials, Norfolk 757-855-3146
• Suffolk Monument, Suffolk 757-539-6845

That is a temporary marker and are supplied by the funeral home.

We do not remove temporary markers for any reason.

Funeral arrangements are by appointment only.  We require notice 48 hours prior to the service to better service you and the family. Please call 757-441-1752. 

NO WALK-IN SERVICES. For grave location help, call us or download our grave location app at www.norfolk.gov/cemeteries.  

Yes, all casket burials need them, however we do not sell them. Your funeral director will assist you.

Urns do not require an urn vault.

Any non-breakable container will do including the temporary plastic container received from funeral home. We do not require an urn vault however, we would like to know if the urn is larger than 12 x 12.

Yes, we accept Visa and Mastercard ONLY over the phone. 757-441-1752. We do not accept any walk-in payments at the cemetery offices.

One bathroom is available to the public at Forest Lawn cemetery, open 9am-3:30 pm. There are no public bathrooms available to visitors at this time at Riverside Memorial Park. Calvary and Elmwood cemeteries’ offices are closed to the public.

The City of Norfolk - Human Services department may be able to help indigent residents of Norfolk with burials and cremations.

• https://www.norfolk.gov/1286/Burial-Expenses 
• Phone: 757-664-3345

Please use the resources listed below:

• Bureau of Cemeteries online Burial Records Search: https://www.norfolk.gov/2692/Search-Burial-Records
• Findagrave.com- Volunteer-led- Find the graves of ancestors, create virtual memorials or add photos, virtual flowers and a note to a loved one’s memorial. Search or browse cemeteries and grave records for every-day and famous people from around the world.
• Slover Library – Sergeant Memorial Collection conducts basic research to answer requests that are received via online form, email or by traditional mail correspondence. https://www.sloverlibrary.com/contact?rq=genealogy  Phone: (757) 431-7429 Email: localhistory@norfolk.gov
• USGenWeb Archives Virginia - Volunteer-led - http://www.usgwarchives.net/va/norfolkcity/cemeteries - All Norfolk cemeteries

We do not offer walk-in grave location services at this time. Please use our app which can be downloaded at https://www.norfolk.gov/cemeteries or see the maps at the front of Riverside, Calvary and Forest Lawn Cemeteries. Maps to all cemeteries can be found online at each cemeteries’ webpage at https://www.norfolk.gov/cemeteries .

BLOODLINE HEIR OWNERSHIP

The burial rights to a lot/grave pass to all bloodline kin upon the death of the lot/grave owner.  

 Please see the following steps to determine ownership: 

1. Lot/grave owner = full ownership for burial decisions.
2. Lot/grave owner dies = equal ownership goes to the children and spouse. 
3. No children = ownership goes to the spouse.
4. No living children or spouse = ownership goes to children of the deceased children.
5. Some living children = equal ownership goes to living children of the lot/grave owner and the children of the deceased children.
6. No living spouse or children = property goes back to mother and/or father of the original lot/grave owner.
7. No mother or father = ownership goes to the siblings of original lot/grave owner.
8. No brothers or sisters = ownership goes to bloodline descendants of original lot/grave owner.
9. If original lot/grave has co-owners, ownership is shared equally with the surviving bloodline heirs of both sides.   All above rules still apply with regards to ownership.

 For burials, a bloodline heir has the right to bury someone on a first come, first served basis. The bloodline heir does not need to get permission from other bloodline heirs. 

• For transfer of ownership in the case of the sale of a grave or transfer to another person, all bloodline heirs must sign off on the transfer.

 Other ways to take over ownership of a grave/lot:

• If a person is specifically mentioned in a will, the cemetery and the location of the lot/grave must be specified. The will must be presented to cemetery manager.
•  Adopted children also count as bloodline kin, but stepchildren do not. Adoption papers must be presented to cemetery manager.

 How to make burial arrangements for a deceased who is not a bloodline heir:

• When a grave/lot owner is not able to sign for pre-need or imminent funeral arrangements, (perhaps due to a disability) an individual who has power of attorney (POA) or who is the executor for that person, can make funeral arrangements for them. POA documents and an ID must be presented to cemetery manager.

No, we do not accept any walk-in payments at the cemetery offices. Please send installment payments to Forest Lawn Cemetery, 100 Granby St., Norfolk, VA 23505. We also accept Visa and Mastercard over the phone.

We do not accept personal checks for burial services. We do accept money orders and cashier’s checks, (made payable to the City of Norfolk) cash and Visa and Mastercard.

No. A new Virginia law went into effect July 1st, 2021 that prohibits the release of balloons outdoors. The law applies to anyone aged 16 or older, who intentionally releases or discards any non-biodegradable balloons outdoors.  https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title29.1/chapter5/section29.1-556.1/

§ 29.1-556.1. Release of certain balloons prohibited; civil penalty; community service.

A. It is unlawful for any individual 16 years of age or older or other person to intentionally release, discard, or cause to be released or discarded outdoors any balloon made of a nonbiodegradable or nonphotodegradable material or any material that requires more than five minutes' contact with air or water to degrade. Any person convicted of a violation of this section is liable for a civil penalty of $25 per balloon released or discarded, which shall be paid into the Game Protection Fund established pursuant to § 29.1-101. If an individual under the age of 16 releases a balloon by arrangement with or at the instruction of an adult, the adult shall be liable for the civil penalty assessed.

\

Fill out 

Fill out an 

View our

Fill out an 

Beginning on or after January 1, 2011, the General Assembly hereby exempts from taxation the real property, including the joint real property of husband and wife, of any veteran who has been rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or its successor agency pursuant to federal law to have a 100 percent service-connected, permanent, and total disability, and who occupies the real property as his principal place of residence.

The surviving spouse of a veteran eligible for the exemption set forth in this article shall also qualify for the exemption, so long as the death of the veteran occurs on or after January 1, 2011, and the surviving spouse does not remarry. The exemption applies without any restriction on the spouse's moving to a different principal place of residence.

In order to apply, the veteran must provide the following:

• The approved and original letter of disability from the Department of Veterans Affairs
• Completed and signed Disabled Veteran application
• Copy of military photo identification
• Copy of proof of residency occupancy, such as a driver's license, utility bill or bank statement

Additional information

Download form

No. If a person who is permanently and totally disabled owns real estate, there is no minimum age requirement.

Certification is required from the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Railroad Retirement Board, or the Social Security Administration. If an applicant is not eligible for certification by any of these agencies, there must be sworn affidavits by two (2) medical doctors licensed to practice medicine in Virginia. One of these affidavits must be based on a physical exam.

You can check your application status by logging into your account at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/js_login.cfm

The City of Norfolk does not retain applicant username/password information, please contact NEOGOV customer service at 877-204-4442.

Certain documentation is required to apply for a building permit. Please refer to our Applications and Forms page for Building Permit Form that provides plan submittal instructions and a list of required documentation.

Residential plan review takes approximately 10 business days to complete for any new construction. Plan review for additions and renovations can be reviewed at the counter immediately (except when further approvals are needed from other offices such as Environmental Services and/or Zoning).

A complete package including application and construction documents may be emailed to the Development Services Center.

Insufficient plans or incomplete applications will not be assigned check-in tracking numbers. Please refer to the Plan Submittal Checklist.  Resubmittals shall include the entire resubmittal bundle including all of the requested items, address, and permit tracking number, or the plans will not be resubmitted for review.

The location of the fence depends on several factors including the zoning district that you reside and the exact delineation of your property line. In general: •A fence located in the front yard that is considered 50% open (i.e. chain link, wrought iron, picket, etc.) may be up to 4 feet tall. •In the side yards, you may place up to a 6 foot solid fence, unless your property is on a corner lot. If you are on a corner, the fence adjacent to the road may be up to 6 feet, but it must be 50% open (i.e. chain link, wrought iron, picket, etc.) Graphics to illustrate these requirements can be found here. For further clarification, please contact Zoning at 757-664-6588.

A completed application for the specific trade is required. An application can be completed electronically via an online portal at norfolkvapermits.force.com

A Mechanical Permit is required for a gas line.

Inspections can be requested using the online portal with a computer or smart device at Inspections. You will need to enter your permit number and PIN to find inspections that are available to request.
Permit Number (ex. B12-3456) PIN Number (ex. IR-12345)  You can also login into your portal account and schedule the inspection.

Inspection results are emailed to up to three registered email addresses, designated by the permit applicant.

The price of a permit varies greatly and is dependent on the nature of your project. Please reference our permit fee schedule for further information or call the Development Services Center at 757-664-6565.

All family members including provider and assistants require the annual TB screening. We can request an additional test if there are specific concerns about a provider’s health. If you use volunteers or have visitors to your home for extended periods they too must obtain a TB screening before coming in contact with children.

If you want to close your family child care home you must provide parents 30-days written notice of your intent to close. Additionally, you must provide your licensing specialist a written letter with your final program date. Within 48-hours of closing your program, you must surrender your original license along with any materials and equipment borrowed from the Home-Based Childcare Network Office.

• Harassing phone calls (without threats of violence)
• Larceny (total property value can not excess $500.00)
• Larceny from a building or a secured building where an insider took property and not the result of a burglary. (total property value can not excess $500.00)
• Larceny from vending/coin machine(total property value can not excess $500.00), washer/dryer machines in a common area or open business
• Larceny from vehicle (total property value can not excess $500.00) (This does not include the amount of damage to vehicle, just property taken from the vehicle)
• Larceny of parts from vehicle (total property value can not excess $500.00). If the ignition has been tampered with, that is "Tampering with an auto" and an officer will be dispatched)
• Larceny of a bicycle (total property value can not excess $500.00)
• Obscene communications (Without threats of violence)
• Shoplifting (total property value can not excess $500.00) when there is no one in custody, it did not just occur with suspect description and direction of travel, and no one being pursued by a private citizen
• Vandalism total property value can not excess $500.00 and there was no shooting into occupied dwellings)
• Stolen license plates
• The Norfolk Police do not take lost item or lost property reports including lost cell phones
• A lost firearm is the ONLY "lost property" report that will be taken by an officer in person.

The City has invited Verizon, in person and by letters, to enter into a cable television franchise to provide cable services to the citizens of Norfolk. Verizon told us that they appreciated our taking time to invite them in and urging them to come to Norfolk and that they understood the process. They said then and continue to say that they have not concluded that they desire to apply for a franchise.

No cable television, internet or telephone provider has an exclusive contract to provide service in Norfolk. The City has consistently encouraged competition in the City.

Much of the regulation of cable companies is done by the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") and at the federal government level. FCC guidelines give the City of Norfolk the authority to regulate the rate for Basic service, the lowest available level of service when there is no competition. Currently, Norfolk does not regulate the base rate for cable service because the FCC has determined that with direct broadcast satellite providers (DirecTV and Dish Network) there is adequate competition; therefore, Cox may charge what it believes the cable-buying market will pay.

FCC regulations state that basic service must contain local broadcast stations and public-education-government channels. Any additional channels are at the sole discretion of the cable company. Except for mandating broad categories of programming such as the following:

• Educational and government
• Family
• Home shopping
• Multi-cultural
• Public, etc.

The City has no jurisdiction over what channels are carried on the Cox system.

With utilities like electricity and water, monthly charges are based on usage and fees and are calculated at the end of a billing cycle. However, like telephone service, cable TV service has a standard basic monthly charge, usually billed a month in advance.

Under legislation enacted by the 2006 General Assembly, House Bill 568, the Virginia communications sales and use tax, also referred to as the Communications Sales tax, replaced most of the previous state and local taxes and fees on communications services, effective January 1, 2007. This tax replaced all "franchise fees" previously paid by cable TV service companies in Virginia.

As a cable TV subscriber in Norfolk, you have a right to:

• Appeal to the City Cable Administrator for assistance, after contacting the cable company without satisfaction.
• A customer service center and bill payment location open at least during normal business hours.
• Service calls, installations, and disconnects during normal business hours within seven business days of the request.
• Telephone answering time of fewer than 30 seconds, with an additional 30 seconds maximum time to transfer the call to a customer service representative.
• A specific time for service calls within a time block equal to or less than four hours in length.
• An appointment scheduled at a specific time during normal business hours convenient to you, if the technician does not meet a previously scheduled time.
• The following materials, once every 12 months:
  • Billing and complaint procedures
  • Channel positions of the programming carried on the System
  • Installation and Service maintenance policies
  • Instructions on how to use the Cable Service
  • Prices and options for programming services and conditions of subscription to programming and other services
  • Products and Services offered

• At least 30 days prior notice of any significant changes in the information listed above, in writing and by an announcement on the system.
• Credit on your next bill of an amount equal to 1/30 of the monthly charge for loss of service for more than eight hours in any 24-hour period, other than a planned interruption.
• A billing statement that is clear, concise and understandable. Such statements must be fully itemized and include basic and premium service charges and equipment charges, all activity during the billing period including any rebates and credits.
• A response to your written billing complaints within 30 days of receipt of your complaint.
• Refund checks and service credit issued to you no later than the next billing cycle.

If subscribers have questions or problems with cable service, they should first contact Cox to resolve the issue. Direct inquiries for Cox to:

• Cox Communications
  Attention: Government Affairs
  1341 Crossways Boulevard
  Chesapeake, VA 23320
• Phone: 757-222-1111

If the event is protected by the First Amendment, the City will accommodate the activity in a traditional public forum. A traditional public forum is a place with a long tradition of expressive activities, such as:

• Public parks
• Public streets
• Sidewalks

Traditional public forums do not include:

• City buildings
• City park structures
• City parking lots
• Sand beach property

• The City can impose only content-neutral time, place and manner restrictions.
• Equipment setup requests will be reviewed/approved on a case by case basis.
• An Expressive Activity Permit (PDF) is required for all expressive activities with 30 or more participants in expected attendance.

A complete application (incomplete applications will not be processed) must be submitted by the required application deadline and includes the following:

• $10 Application Fee
• Completed Expressive Activity Permit Application
• Supporting documents, including event layout and/or map, event schedule or timeline, event insurance certificate (if required), etc.

As a guideline when completing event permit paperwork, always overestimate your needs and the quantities. It is much simpler to receive permission and scale down the event. Any changes to the requests in the Event Permit Application will delay the permit process.

Application

Complete the Expressive Activity Permit Application (PDF) to get started with the permitting process.

You must be at least 18 years old to work directly with animals. Volunteers often work "behind the scenes" and there is an element of risk involved. Our first priority is to keep our volunteers safe and their experience enjoyable.

Prior animal experience is helpful, but not necessary to become a volunteer. You should be able to communicate well enough to follow instructions. You will also be working closely with other volunteers and staff, so you must be able to get along with others. Additionally, you should also have the ability to work independently without close supervision.

You should be in reasonably good physical shape to walk dogs; some are very strong and pull hard on their leash. There is a fair amount of strenuous activity involved in just about all of our animal care volunteer opportunities. If you take immunosuppressive drugs, you should speak with your physician before working with animals.

Foster homes are needed for many different situations. Some animals are too young for adoption, may have an injury, or may need a different environment than the Adoption Center can provide. Foster care is needed for those animals who are adoptable, but just need time away from the Adoption Center in order to grow, heal, or chill out. Foster care typically lasts anywhere from one week to a month or more. We usually try to match the needs of the foster home with the needs of the animal(s). Contact us directly if you would like to become a foster home for our animals.

Yes. We ask that you commit to volunteering for a minimum of one year. We invest a lot of time and resources into training our volunteers. Having a large turnover of volunteers strains our resources and the care we can ultimately give to our animals. If you are an animal care volunteer, we ask that you be able to commit at least two hours per week, for at least one year. There are some exceptions. Please contact us with your particular concerns.

We ask that you maintain a regular schedule as a volunteer. We are able to plan our day better if we know that volunteers are working at a particular time. We know that you may miss your scheduled shift due to illness, vacations, etc., but we do ask that you make an effort to follow your schedule as much as possible.

There is a multitude of administrative and clerical tasks that you can do. Clerical duties tend to get lowest priority in our very busy Adoption Center so help is always appreciated. There is always landscaping that needs a talented touch, as well as special events that frequently require a lot of extra hands. If you can't commit to a steady two hour per week time commitment, these opportunities might be just what you're looking for.

We are here from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with evening hours Thursdays until 7 p.m. On weekends and holidays, we are here from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. We especially need help during morning cleaning on weekdays. If these hours don't fit your schedule, we also need help during the evenings for our off-site adoption program at area Petco stores.

Attend one of our scheduled volunteer orientations. You will learn more about us and about the volunteer opportunities we offer. We will then set up a one-on-one interview with you to discuss your availability and the volunteer areas that interest you most.

Contact our Volunteer Coordinator. Call 757-441-5505, ext 307 or email Laurelyn Flowers.

A bond is required so that the right of way and other project items can be completed in accordance with city standards the event that you do not meet your obligations.  

We accept bonds for 100% of the cost of all right of way work installation and restoration including all  storm water work (on public and private property).

On site storm water bond is needed because it ties into the City's storm water system and we need to make sure it is installed and installed properly.

Yes, please use the bond form (PDF).

Excel is preferred, but it can be sent in any format.

Please send the estimate to Cregg Fortin via email,

Yes, a letter of credit is acceptable.

Yes, a check is acceptable.

The bond is reduced to 10% to 15% as a one year warranty. You must request the release.

Please send an email with your permit number and/or project address, bond number, at least 2 weeks before needed requesting release to the Right of Way Management Division at Public Works email.

• Call 911 for medical or police-related emergencies.
• If you are unable to care for your basic needs due to your disability, it is an emergency. If you are thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if you have a need to talk to a crisis counselor, it is an emergency. In this case, you should call our Emergency Services Hotline at 757-664-7690. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• If you are running out of medication, please contact your individual Care Coordinator who you regularly work with on the next business day.  If you are out of medication, please contact your individual Care Coordinator who you regularly work with on the next business day.  If you have other additional service needs, please contact your individual Care Coordinator who you regularly work with on the next business day.

Your Care Coordinator should be your primary point-of-contact for all of your services here at the Norfolk Community Services Board. Care Coordinators will always be a provider with whom you have had face-to-face contact, as well as provided you with services in the past.

Call our Reimbursement Office at 757-823-1665.

For job openings and employment information, call Human Resources at 757-823-1668. You may also visit the City of Norfolk Human Resources web site.

Call TDD: 1-800-552-7917.

Call the Office of Consumer Relations at 757-756-5861.

Call the Office of Consumer Relations at 757-823-1692.

View the copy of our NCSB Handbook (PDF). You may also obtain a printed copy of the handbook at any of the Norfolk CSB Facilities.

MyNorfolk is currently available for iPhones and Android devices.

Your request has been moved over to the new system and is still being processed. For Request tracker requests enter RT- and you can continue to monitor your concern.

From the MyNorfolk website, enter a word or phrase in the Search City Services box at the top of the screen. From the MyNorfolk mobile app, select City Service Directory from the menu, and then enter a word or phrase in the Search City Services box at the top of the screen.

Most service request types can be entered anonymously by leaving the Contact Info fields blank while creating your request. However, if we need more information and have no way to contact you, the request may be canceled (not completed). Some request types require contact information to be provided in order to comply with laws or rules in place regarding those services. Contact info fields are indicated as “required” for those request types.

Yes. When submitting a service request, if you provide your email address on the Contact Info screen, you will receive an email notification for that request when it opens and when it gets closed or canceled.

Your email address is used only for the MyNorfolk application and will not be sold or shared.

 Your request will be assigned to the corresponding City department depending on the type of service request entered.

The time to fulfill the request varies depending on the service request type, priority, and the volume of requests being handled by the assigned City departments.

The MyNorfolk application currently offers over 145 service request types which are fulfilled by various City departments. Requests may be entered using MyNorfolk at any time but service fulfillment only takes place during City business hours.

There is not a limit on the number of service requests entered. However, the system may prompt you that someone else has already reported a similar issue at the same location.

Adding a photo is optional.

Only addresses within the City of Norfolk limits will be found. If you live in a neighboring city your address will not be found.

The purpose of this program is to protect the health and welfare of the citizens of Norfolk by ensuring that the City’s drinking water supply is protected from harmful substances. It is also required by the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Waterworks Regulations.

Any connection between your potable water supply and a source of contamination. A lawn irrigation system, a fire sprinkler system, or even a submerged garden hose are all examples of cross connections.

When water flows the wrong direction in your piping system.

A contaminant, such as used water in a pool or bathtub, can flow back into your water supply. This would seriously affect the quality of your water.

A device that prevents your water from flowing in the wrong direction.

Install the proper devices where they are needed, have your devices tested annually, and call our cross connections office for any help you may need.

UTBackflow@Norfolk.gov

757-441-5774 ext. 299

At this time only those residential homes that have irrigation, sprinkler systems, boilers, geothermal heating systems or medical equipment connected to the City’s water system are required to have backflow assemblies on those systems.

All outdoor faucets and hose bibs that have threaded connections where a garden hose can be attached should have backflow prevention protection. This may be in the form of a frost-proof automatic draining outdoor faucet with built in backflow preventer or by the use of a screw on hose bibb vacuum breaker (HBVB) that can be purchased at local hardware or home supply stores.

They must be tested at least annually. Backflow assemblies are mechanical assemblies and as such they are subject to fail, which is why the VDH requires that they be tested at least once a year.  In addition, newly installed backflow assemblies and backflow assemblies that are repaired or relocated must also be tested.

Though the Department of Public Utilities monitors the installation and maintenance of these assemblies as required by the VDH, we do not have any influence or control over the contractors pricing and it can vary from one testing contractor to another. We understand that group pricing, whether through a neighborhood or homeowners association is an option that may lower your annual testing cost. Combining the test with other irrigation system maintenance may also net a savings for the homeowner.

Yes, a list of certified testers is available here. The Department of Utilities advises you should also check the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation website each year to ensure that your chosen tester is still a properly certified and approved tester as certifications are subject to expiration and revocation. The City does not endorse, guarantee, or warrant any work performed by the testing contractors. All interactions between customers and contractors are private transactions between these two entities. This list may not include all of the certified testers working in the area. We provide this list as a convenience to our customers.

Yes, we track the backflow assembly information in our database, which will generate a reminder letter to our customers reminding them when their annual test is due. If you do not receive a letter, please contact the Cross Connection Program at UTBackflow@Norfolk.gov or 757-441-5774 ext. 299.

The absence of a reminder letter does not void the requirement of the annual inspection required. There is general information and a copy of a blank test form on the City’s website. If you have not received a letter please contact the Cross Connection Program at UTBackflow@Norfolk.gov or 757-441-5774 ext. 299.

Your chosen tester should send a copy to the Cross Connection Program at UTBackFlow@norfolk.gov or complete the online form within 30 days of the test date. Please retain your copy in your records in case the contractor fails to send it.

Yes. Whenever you want to save your application, scroll to the top of the page. There you will find two buttons, a “Save as draft” or “Save as Completed” button. Select the appropriate button to meet your needs. When you return to working on your draft application make sure you hit the “edit” button to re-open the application.

When you are ready to submit your application for review, scroll to the top of the application. In the top – left quadrant you will see a green “submit” button. Hitting this button will submit your application for review. If you have failed to answer a mandatory question or if you failed to attach a required document, you will be unable to submit your application.

No. Once submitted, your application is locked. If an application is submitted by accident, contact a member of the PICC team for assistance.

To be considered for funding, all PICC Year 3 Tier 3 applications must be submitted to the eCivis grant management system by 4:30 p.m. on November 07, 2025. 

The only way for a tenant to be evicted is through the court process. A landlord does not have the right to discard your possessions or legally lock you out without first taking you to court.

The first step in the process is notification. Your landlord must notify you in writing of any breach in your lease.

1. Five Day Notice: Your landlord or property management company must first issue you a 5-day notice if you are behind in rent. If you are not able to pay rent within the 5-day notification period, your landlord can start the eviction process (Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1245F)  
2. Thirty Day Notice to Cure or Quit: If you have committed a lease violation that is remediable such as having an unauthorized pet, the landlord may issue you a 21/30 notice to mitigate and cure the offense. If the tenant has not mitigated the violation within the 21 days, the landlord can then move forward with filing the eviction lawsuit at the end of 30 days. Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1245A .
3. Thirty Day Unconditional Quit Notice: If you violate a lease or rental agreement and the violation cannot be remedied (such as causing major damage to the rental unit), then the landlord can give you a 30-day unconditional quit notice. The notice must specify the breach and state that you (tenant) must move at the end of the 30-day period, or the landlord will file an eviction lawsuit against you. Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1245C .
4. No Notice Necessary: The landlord is not required to give the tenant any kind of notice, if you commit a criminal or willful act that is not remediable and poses a threat to health or safety. This includes any illegal drug activity. The landlord can go straight to court and file an eviction lawsuit against you. Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1245C

Starting July 1, 2021, all landlords must provide tenants with a Statement of Tenant Right and Responsibilities developed by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and posted on its website.  For the most current version of the act, please visit dhcd.virginia.gov/landlord-tenant-resources.

It is against the law for your landlord to lock you out of your home, turn off vital utility services, or deny or restrict access to services on the premises such as the pool, workout room, laundry room, etc.  If your landlord conducts any of these “self-help eviction” practices, please go to the General District Court clerk's office located at 150 St. Paul’s Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510 and file Form DC-431 "Tenant's Petition for Relief from Unlawful Exclusion".

Yes! Renters should always communicate with their landlord or property management company if they are faced with the inability to pay rent. Landlords and property management companies that own more than four (4) rental properties cannot move forward with an eviction without offering up to 6 months for a repayment plan.  For complete details of your protections and responsibilities of you and your landlord, visit the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development at www.dhcd.virginia.gov.

If you have a court hearing, it is essential that you appear in court. If you do not appear in court, your landlord will automatically be granted possession of your residence.  

• Regional Housing Crisis Hotline: (757) 587-4202. Call if you are experiencing homelessness or received an Unlawful Detainer or Eviction Notice
• Simply dial 211 on your phone and ask for a listing of community resources.     

Residents who are experiencing financial and/ or employment hardships may contact community resources for free budget and financial counseling such as 

• BankOn Hampton Roads via email info@bankonhr.org or (757) 943-9652
• Norfolk Works Program at (757) 763-6064 for employment and job readiness opportunities
• Rent Ready Norfolk Renting Smart Academy to enroll in Renters Education Classes via email Rentready@norfolk.gov or (757) 664-RENT (7368)
• Resources757.Org to receive assistance for additional services.

In addition to the list of sources on our website, you can also contact:

• Legal Aid of Southeastern Virginia: (757) 627-5423 
• The Virginia Fair Housing Office:  (804) 367-8530 Toll Free: (888) 551-3247 TDD: 711 (Virginia Relay) Email: FairHousing@dpor.virginia.gov http://www.dpor.virginia.gov
• The Virginia Poverty Law Center: (804)782-9430
• Eviction Legal Helpline: 1-833-NoEvict. This hotline provides services for tenants in the process of being evicted or at risk of eviction

Yes, to receive assistance from the Norfolk Eviction Prevention program, an applicant must reside in the city of Norfolk, Virginia.

Please refer to our website   www.norfolk.gov/evictionprevention for the latest information on our program guidelines and online portal status. 

No, the Norfolk Eviction Prevention Center does not provide financial assistance to tenants who are not currently past due. 

Your landlord or property manager will be able to provide you with a current ledger.  If you would like to see an example, please click here.

No, we are unable to accept summary statements for utilities or rental ledgers.  An itemized ledger must be provided as well as utility bills for the last three months.

No, a lease must be signed by the tenant or tenants and the landlord or leasing agent.  We are unable to accept copies that are not signed and not dated.  Also, any changes made to the original lease must be initialed by the tenant and landlord.

Legible documents contain information that is clear and readable.  We are unable to accept documents that are blurry, have cut off images or text, or are severely damaged.

Submitting an online request with the Norfolk Eviction Prevention Center will not change your scheduled court case.  You must attend court to tell the judge about your efforts to resolve your past due balance and/or possibly make arrangements with your landlord.

You can request assistance only once in a twelve-month period.  The twelve-month period begins at the time payment is made to your landlord, not from the date you request assistance.  For example, if you request assistance in April 2024 and payment is made to your landlord in June 2024, you will not be eligible for assistance again until after June 2025.

No, the Norfolk Eviction Prevention Center does not assist with security deposits.

Your address was sampled at random from a list of all addresses from the post office by ETC Institute. This is a standard service offered by the post office. It is not a city government file and no household member is named in the file.

The resident of the property should complete the survey.

ETC Institute randomly selected households within our jurisdiction to receive the survey. We would also like to choose, in an unbiased way, a person within each household to complete the survey. This way we ensure the results are representative of our community as a whole. While it may seem a bit strange, using the “birthday method” is a simple way to select an adult from within each household without permitting bias in our results.

We would prefer that you complete the survey. The “birthday method” (See FAQ #3) creates the most representative sample of our jurisdiction. You’ll be surprised at how much you can contribute.

Yes, we are here to serve all residents, and it is important to us that we get feedback from a complete cross-section of our residents. 

No, please don’t fill it out again. The second copy is distributed as a reminder to all people selected to be sent a survey and sent again for your convenience. Thank you for completing the first survey.

The sample was designed to be as representative as possible of the population of our city, so by sending copies of the survey to people who request a copy, we would skew the sample and make the results less meaningful. However, for the 2022 survey, in order to allow all citizens to offer their input, a general public survey link will be on the city’s website, along with paper copies at designated locations, available after October 24. 

This is the main reason ETC Institute asks demographic questions. This is how they will compare the data received to the recent Census data to ensure that it is representative and scientifically valid.

After survey data is compiled and analyzed by ETC Institute, City administration and staff will review your feedback carefully and make appropriate improvements in programs and services. Listening to you, our citizens, is critical to our effort of becoming a Well-Managed Government.

We want to compare the demographic profile of those responding to the demographic profile of the municipality as presented by the Census. In order to be able to do this, ETC Institute asked the race and ethnicity question the same way the Census does. The census designates Hispanic as an ethnicity, not a race.

Yes! All individual responses to the survey are kept by ETC Institute to ensure confidentiality. ETC Institute will analyze and compile the data and present the findings to City leadership.

ETC Institute administered a resident survey for the City of Norfolk, VA during the fall of 2022. The survey was mailed to households across the city using a data base to ensure the sample was representative of our diverse population. After the mailed survey was completed, the city made copies of the same survey available on-line and in locations across the city to allow every resident who wished to do so to complete the survey. This opportunity was shared with residents through  the city web site, news stories and outreach in community facilities.

922 residents responded to the mail survey. The survey asked people to describe their demographic information. To be considered representative of our residents, a total of 750 responses were needed.  It was great that our residents responded well above the minimum needed. The demographic information which people provided was  compared to the U.S. Census information to make certain the residents answering the survey were similar to the Norfolk population as identified in the 2020 Census. 

313 responses were received in the second phase of the survey responses. Since this part of the survey could be completed by any resident, it does not reflect all the Norfolk population. While not representative, these responses were important to capture the priorities and opinions of any resident who wished to be included in the responses.

The purpose of the survey was to objectively assess resident satisfaction with the delivery of City services and to gather input about priorities for the City. This is the first resident survey conducted since 2014. Our plan is to conduct a survey every two years so we can measure progress on work towards what residents identified as important for focus.

City administration and staff will review the feedback and make appropriate improvements in programs and services.  While not every need may be addressed immediately, the priorities will help identify what residents think is most important to work on in the next two years. Listening to you, our citizens, is critical to our effort of becoming a Well-Managed Government.

A randomized sample survey is one in which the people responding are chosen at random by the organization conducting the survey. The respondents don’t sign up to participate. 

Every randomized sample survey attempts to estimate a measurement for the full population being studied by measuring a small sample. There will always be some difference between the sample and the population.  Researchers estimate how much this difference is by using two related statistics: the MOE (Margin of Error) and the confidence interval. The 2022 resident survey has an MOE of  +/- 3.2% with a confidence interval of 95%. This means that the true population measurement for the questions on this survey would fall within 3.2% of the sample measurement 95% of the time. In only 5% (100% - 95%) of the possible measures would the population measure more than 3.2% difference.

The survey results are available on the City of Norfolk Open Data Portal.

dataset link: https://data.norfolk.gov/Government/Resident-Survey-2022/qure-5p8r 

Also available on the City webpage is a data Dashboard which can help you explore results by specific questions, demographic, ward, and other parameters.

Due to the length (over 250 pages) of the survey report, we are not providing printed copies.

We will be making printed copies of the report available at libraries and will add that information when they are in place.

Chloramines are a safe and common disinfectant used to treat drinking water. Chloramines are formed when free chlorine and ammonia are added at the treatment plant. This is a very stable and long-lasting disinfectant.

Chlorine is used as a routine preventive maintenance procedure to assure the highest quality of drinking water is delivered to your home.

No. Chlorine has been the primary method to disinfect drinking water for more than 100 years.  Regionally, chlorine was the primary drinking water disinfectant prior to October of the year 2000 when conversion to chloramines was achieved.

You may notice a slight chlorine smell.  

Yes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that both chlorine and chloramines are safe disinfectants for bathing, drinking, cooking, and everyday water uses. 

Yes. If you have any other health related questions or concerns, please consult with your family physician.

No. 

The amount of chlorine will be extremely small, between 2.5 and 3 parts per million of water.  If you have any questions, please consult with your family physician.

Yes. 

The small amount of chlorine in drinking water should not affect plants. 

No. Chloramines and chlorine disinfectants are safe for household plumbing.

Most brands do not contain chlorine but there are some bottled water companies that use chlorine to disinfect their water prior to bottling.

You should check with the manufacturer. Chlorine is normally removed with a carbon filter; however, an old carbon filter may not remove all of the chlorine.

Yes. Chlorine will dissipate over time, but after 24 hours it should be refrigerated.

Yes. If you normally drink city water, the chlorine will not affect the salt content of the water.

Follow your doctor’s recommendations. Medical centers that perform dialysis commonly remove the chloramines or chlorine that enters the dialysis machines. You should consult your physician if you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of water for dialysis.

You should use water treatment products that remove chlorine and chloramines for your aquarium or ponds.   Most pet stores have been selling de-chlorinating agents for years and generally have recommended using them for fresh and saltwater tanks.  See your pet store supplier for more details. 

For more information, contact the following:

For health-related questions, please consult with your family physician.

For technical, water supply-related questions, call the City of Norfolk Department of Utilities Water Quality Laboratory @ (757) 441-5678 between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Per and Polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, are long-lasting chemicals that are resistant to heat and repel water and oil. They have been used for nearly 70 years in many industrial applications and consumer products like carpeting, water-resistant clothing, upholstery, food packaging, non-stick cookware, and personal care products. In addition, they have been used in fire-retarding foam and various industrial processes. Due to their widespread use and their persistence in the environment, PFAS are now found in water, air, fish, wildlife, and soil around the world. There are thousands of PFAS chemicals and their presence in the environment is an international issue.  

The City of Norfolk Department of Utilities Water Quality Division is keeping customers informed that we are testing for PFAS in the drinking water produced at Moores Bridges and Kristen M. Lentz Water Treatment Plants. Following monitoring required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 5, results will be added to next year’s Consumer Confidence Report and the City’s Water Quality webpage. The EPA uses the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR) to collect data for contaminants that are suspected to be present in drinking water and do not have health-based standards set under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). 

The City of Norfolk’s drinking water continues to meet all federal and state standards for drinking water safety and customers may continue to drink drinking water. The EPA interim health advisories do not recommend that consumers stop using drinking water, nor do they recommend the use of bottled water. The EPA notes that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not established standards for PFAS in bottled water.  For more information, visit the EPA’s Meaningful and Achievable Steps You Can Take to Reduce Your Risk page at https://www.epa.gov/pfas/meaningful-and-achievable-steps-you-can-take-reduce-your-risk.

Additional information, including answers to frequently asked questions and links to additional sources, is available at the Virginia Department of Health’ website - https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/drinking-water/pfas/. 

Health advisory levels were instituted in the summer of 2022 by the EPA to address common PFAS compounds and replace previous levels set in 2016. These Health Advisory levels include PFOA at 0.004 parts per trillion (ppt), PFOS at 0.02 ppt, GenX at 10 ppt, and PFBS at 2000 ppt. Health-based advisory levels are established by the EPA for chemicals in drinking water that lack maximum contaminant levels.

The EPA has set lifetime health advisory levels for PFOA (a common PFAS compound) of 4 parts per quadrillion (1,000,000,000,000,000), a level undetectable by current technology and significantly lower than the EPA’s 2016 health advisory level of 70 parts per trillion (1,000,000,000,000). To illustrate, 4 parts per quadrillion is the same ratio as 4 drops of water within the water it would take to fill 20,000 Olympic size swimming pools.

The new advisories’ exposure levels replace the previous level released in 2016 and were set near zero to provide Americans, including the most sensitive populations, with a margin of protection from a lifetime of exposure. They also consider other potential sources of exposure to these PFAS beyond drinking water, such as food, air, consumer products, etc. The EPA’s lifetime exposure calculations assumed 20% of the exposure is allocated to drinking water and the remaining 80% is attributed to all other potential exposure sources. The advisory is nonregulatory and is intended to be in place during the time between initial understanding of health effects and publication of the final enforceable National Primary Drinking Water Regulation. The EPA anticipates finalizing a maximum contaminant level for PFOA and PFOS, as well as a Health Index calculation for four other PFAS, by the end of 2023.

For more information on PFAS from The City of Norfolk, contact the Water Quality Laboratory at (757)-441-5678.
 
For more information on PFAS from the EPA, visit www.epa.gov/pfas or visit the EPA’s PFAS Health Advisory page at www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2022-06/drinking-water-ha-pfas-factsheet-water-system.pdf

Street Sweeping is on its regular monthly schedule. 

Please use our Open Data Portal Search by Address tool for your sweeping day.

Yes. Per City code, homeowners are responsible for maintaining the curb in front of their house to ensure that rainwater runs, unimpeded to the stormwater curb inlets, thereby reducing localized flooding.

Curb and gutter are an important component of how the street sweepers operate. If the curb was not present there would be a loss of efficiency as well as destruction of the grass or landscaping along the line being swept.

There are several reasons why a regularly scheduled street may not have gotten swept:

• Rain or hazardous weather
• Freezing temperatures
• Construction and road closures
• Vehicles parked beside the curb
• Low hanging limbs
• Large piles of leaves and debris in the street
• Mechanical failure of the street sweepers
• Holiday

If possible, make-up days are usually scheduled on the following two Mondays; otherwise, streets will be swept during the next regularly scheduled time.

Comprehensive Planning is an inclusive process by which a community seeks to manage present conditions and provide for future needs. Though most often associated with guiding future land development, local government comprehensive planning efforts can also include such activities as planning for public and private infrastructure, public facilities and service needs, historic preservation, the environment, and economic development.

The Comprehensive Plan is the formal document produced through the comprehensive planning process described above.  At its core, the plan is a guide that captures the vision of what a community wants to be in the future.  Sometimes also referred to as a master plan or a general plan, it is the foundational document of long-term planning, land use planning, zoning, and growth management in the United States and enables local government officials and citizens to anticipate and deal constructively with changes occurring within the community.  It is a broad effort to address a wide range of community issues and concerns, and to understand the important relationships between each part of a community. Comprehensive Plans usually set a planning horizon of 20-25 years, which avoids the uncertainty of long-term economic and population growth patterns while also avoiding short-term thinking that can weaken a cohesive vision of the future.  Typical topics addressed in the plan include an analysis of population change, land use and economic trends, natural and environmental features, housing, transportation systems, and community facilities and services. The local planning commission (City Planning Commission) is responsible for drafting and developing the plan, while the local governing body (Norfolk City Council) is required to adopt the plan.  

First and foremost, Virginia State Law, or the Code of Virginia, requires that all local governments have an adopted Comprehensive Plan, which spells out policies for future development to ensure orderly growth and the protection of the public health and welfare of the community.  The authority for comprehensive planning in Virginia is found in §15.2-2223 of the Code of Virginia, which states, "The comprehensive plan shall be made with the purpose of guiding and accomplishing a coordinated, adjusted, and harmonious development of the territory which will, in accordance with present and probable future needs and resources, best promote the health, safety, morals, order, convenience, prosperity, and general welfare of the inhabitants..."

Secondly, there is great value to a community in developing a Comprehensive Plan and the process itself can be as valuable as the final document.  The planning process allows a community to be proactive (vs. reactive) to issues and changes that arise over time, provides guidance for orderly growth and development, provides an opportunity to think regionally, serves as a guide from which to base all decision-making in the present and over time (regardless of turnover in leadership), and can set up the community for grant funding success.

A bit more background, for all the history buffs out there:
Two laws from the 1920s created the legal precedent for comprehensive plans—the Standard Zoning Enabling Act and the Standard City Planning Enabling Act, both offering details about the scope of comprehensive planning powers at the local level.  Each state provides further mandates and recommendations about the necessary components of comprehensive plans.

The Comprehensive Plan lays the foundation for the Zoning Ordinance, the legal tool for implementing the vision of the future contained in the plan. The plan contains recommendations on land use, housing, transportation, and other areas that are enforced by the Zoning Ordinance; without updating the Zoning Ordinance, many planning goals within a Comprehensive Plan may not be achieved. Along with a community’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP), the Zoning Ordinance is a primary tool for implementing the vision, goals, and recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan.

A records request to the City of Norfolk or the Norfolk Police Department can be submitted online via our FOIA tracking portal by calling one of the phone numbers below, or click here, etc. by emailing foia@norfolk.gov, or by mailing the request to: 

FOIA Request

Norfolk City Hall

810 Union Street

Suite 409

Norfolk VA 23510 

The online portal is monitored throughout the day, and requests submitted there are received quickly.

After a FOIA request is received, it is reviewed by a member of the FOIA Team and sent to the police department or to the City department that holds the requested records. 

You will receive a reply to your request within five business days. This reply may be one of the following five responses, which are outlined in Virginia Code 2.2-3704(B), part of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act:

1. The requested records are being entirely withheld. It is our responsibility to inform you of the volume of records (such as the number of pages) and their general subject matter. We also must cite the specific section of Virginia law that authorizes us, or mandates us, to withhold the records. 

2. The requested records are being provided in part and are being withheld in part. It is our responsibility to inform you of the specific section of Virginia law that authorizes us, or mandates us, to withhold the records. 

3. The requested records could not be found or do not exist. This response will be necessary in cases where no records are held by the City or the Norfolk Police Department, or when records have been lost or damaged, such as by fire or flood. However, if we learn that the records might be held by another public body, such as the Division of Motor Vehicles or the Virginia State Police, we will include contact information for the other public body in our response. 

4. It is not practically possible to provide the requested records or to determine whether they are available within the five-work-day period. If we require more time to complete the processing of your request, the Virginia Freedom of Information Act generally allows us to invoke an extension of seven business days. This is allowed if we invoke this extension within five business days after we have received your request. Our invocation of the extension will include one or more of several reasons allowed by the FOIA, such as a need for the records to be reviewed by a City attorney, or because the custodian of the requested records is out of the office. This response is necessary if, for example, the City staff member who holds the records is on vacation. 

5. If your request includes criminal investigative files as outlined in Virginia Code 2.2-3706.1, we will have 60 business days in which to provide a response to you.

The Virginia Freedom of Information Act requires that requesters identify the records they are seeking with “reasonable specificity.” If we can’t identify the records you are requesting, we may need to contact you to better understand what you are looking for. 

After you submit your request for records, it will be forwarded to the relevant department(s) to locate the records you seek and to determine the volume of those records and any costs associated with satisfying your request. You will be contacted about the availability of and/or provided with copies of the records in question.

Under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, the City of Norfolk may assess reasonable charges for fulfilling a FOIA request, not to exceed its actual cost incurred in accessing, duplicating, supplying and searching for the requested records, or developing a cost estimate. For more information on the costs that may be billed to you, please see below.

The City of Norfolk charges for records provided through the FOIA process in accordance with Title 2.2, Chapter 37 of the Code of Virginia. The Virginia Freedom of Information Act allows us to charge requesters for the actual costs of responding to FOIA requests. These allowable charges include staff time spent searching for and redacting exempt information from the requested records, copying costs, costs for discs or flash drives, or any other costs directly related to supplying the requested records. These costs cannot include general overhead costs. 

For example, if two City staff members work on a records request for one hour, the cost would be calculated based on each person’s hourly rate of pay. If one person earns $25 an hour, and the other person earns $15 an hour, the total cost for producing electronic records would be $40. 

If a requester asks for paper copies of documents or asks that the records be provided on a CD or flash drive, charges for those items are: 15 cents for each black-and-white copy; 25 cents for each color copy; $1 for each CD; and $10 for each flash drive, which holds 2GB of data. 

If we estimate that it will cost more than $200 to respond to your request, we may require you to pay a deposit, not to exceed the amount of the estimate, before proceeding with your request. The total working days that we have to respond to your request does not include the time between when we ask for a deposit and when you respond. This deposit is based on an estimate only, and the final cost of production may be more or less than the deposit. If the final cost is less than the deposit, the balance will be returned to you. However, if the final cost is more than the deposit, the balance will be charged to you. 

You may request that we estimate in advance the charges for supplying records that you have requested. This will allow you to know about any costs up front or give you the opportunity to modify your request to try to lower the estimated costs. 

If you would like a cost estimate, please let us know promptly (before we provide a response to your request) by emailing us at: foia@norfolk.gov. If we do not hear from you promptly, we will continue to process your request, and you may be responsible for the charges incurred.

If you owe us money from a previous FOIA request that has remained unpaid for more than 30 days, the City may require payment of the past-due bill before it will respond to your new FOIA request. 

The Virginia Freedom of Information Act requires us to post this statement:

 “A public body may make reasonable charges not to exceed its actual cost incurred in accessing, duplicating, supplying, or searching for the requested records and shall make all reasonable efforts to supply the requested records at the lowest possible cost. No public body shall impose any extraneous, intermediary, or surplus fees or expenses to recoup the general costs associated with creating or maintaining records or transacting the general business of the public body. Any duplicating fee charged by a public body shall not exceed the actual cost of duplication. Prior to conducting a search for records, the public body shall notify the requester in writing that the public body may make reasonable charges not to exceed its actual cost incurred in accessing, duplicating, supplying, or searching for requested records and inquire of the requester whether he would like to request a cost estimate in advance of the supplying of the requested records as set forth in subsection F of § 2.2-3704 of the Code of Virginia.” 

If you would like a cost estimate, please let us know promptly (before we provide a response to your request) by emailing us at: foia@norfolk.gov. If we do not hear from you promptly, we will continue to process your request, and you may be responsible for the charges incurred.

Under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), citizens of Virginia and representatives of the media in Virginia have the right to access public records, either by inspecting the public records or receiving copies of them. FOIA also requires that public bodies make their meetings open to the public to watch. There are situations in which a public record or a meeting is not open to public access: the public record or the meeting is “exempt.” For some common exemptions, click here. 

The City of Norfolk FOIA Team is ready to help you request records and to answer any questions about your request: 

• Heather Tierney 757-402-7928 heather.tierney@norfolk.gov
• Jasmin Lane 757-359-0298 jasmin.lane@norfolk.gov
• Cindy Clayton 757-664-4055 cynthia.clayton@norfolk.gov

Who handles my FOIA requests? What records do you have? 

The City of Norfolk FOIA Team handles requests for records held by the Norfolk Police Department, the Norfolk Fire Marshal, and by the City. When submitting a FOIA request, citizens are asked to indicate whether their request is for records related to Public Safety (for police or fire records) or whether their request is for a general Public Record (records related to general City administration, such as Planning, Neighborhood Quality or other departments). Requests for each type will be sent to the correct department and processed in accordance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.

The City of Norfolk FOIA Team handles requests for records held by the Norfolk Police Department, the Norfolk Fire Marshal, and by the City. When submitting a FOIA request, citizens are asked to indicate whether their request is for records related to Public Safety (for police or fire records) or whether their request is for a general Public Record (records related to general City administration, such as Planning, Neighborhood Quality or other departments). Requests for each type will be sent to the correct department and processed in accordance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.

Certain police records, or portions of police records, are exempt from disclosure under Virginia Code 2.2-3706, which maintains that information contained in criminal investigative files and information on the identities of witnesses and victims, including 911 callers, are exempt from mandatory release under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. See the Code of Virginia § 2.2-3706 Disclosure of law-enforcement and criminal records and limitations for details. 

The FOIA law includes provisions that exempt other types of records, such as some city personnel information, any financial account information, personal information such as Social Security numbers, confidential tax information, confidential human services information, and legal advice given to the City under certain circumstances. You can find commonly cited FOIA exemptions from the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council:

https://foiacouncil.dls.virginia.gov/Applicability_Exemptions/Records_Exemptions.htm

The Virginia Freedom of Information Act requires that the following information related to employees of the City of Norfolk and Norfolk Police Department be released when requested: a person’s name, position, job classification, official salary, or (for hourly employees) rate of pay of, and information on any allowances or reimbursements paid to them. This applies to requests for information on individual employees and to requests for lists of multiple employees. To protect the privacy of City and NPD employees, no other personnel-related information is generally disclosed, including records of administrative investigations into allegations of wrong-doing by law-enforcement. 

To protect the privacy of victims and witnesses, the Norfolk Police Department does not routinely release any identifying information on them, including their names, addresses or license plate numbers. 

If a law enforcement record concerns a juvenile, the record is routinely withheld under Virginia Code 16.1-301, which says that such records are “protected against disclosure to any unauthorized person.” In most cases, these records “shall not be open to public inspection nor their contents disclosed to the public.” 

To protect the integrity of ongoing criminal investigations, the Norfolk Police Department does not routinely release information included in criminal investigative files. After a criminal case is adjudicated or otherwise closed, other exemptions to information in the case file may apply. 

To protect the privacy and safety of people receiving services, the City of Norfolk does not routinely release information about people receiving social services.

To protect the attorney-client privilege and attorney work product, the City of Norfolk routinely withholds from release legal advice and work of its attorneys. 

To protect the financial interest of the City, the City of Norfolk routinely withholds information relating to the negotiation and award of a specific contract where competition or bargaining is involved before the award of the contract. After the award, proprietary information and trade secret information is routinely withheld. 

The Virginia Freedom of Information Act does not require a governmental body to create records, to do legal research, or to answer questions about the records we might provide.

If you think the City of Norfolk has failed to provide services, denied participation in or access to City services, programs, or activities, denied benefits of City services, programs, or activities, or has otherwise subjected you or someone else to discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, familial status, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law, you can file a complaint.

Complaints of possible violations can be filed with the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion within 180 days of the alleged discrimination. Please submit your complaint in writing to:  

Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

ATTN: Civil Rights/ ADA Coordinator

810 Union Street Suite 1101

Norfolk, VA 23510

DEI@norfolk.gov 

Copies of the complaint form are available on the 1st floor of City Hall: 810 Union Street, Norfolk VA 23510, online, or by email or telephone from the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. For information about completing the complaint process through alternate methods, or for other information about the complaint process in general, please call 757-664-6510 or email DEI@norfolk.gov.

The City will determine if the complaint is complete, whether the City has authority over the issue, and the complaint is timely.  If appropriate and necessary, the City will investigate the complaint, consider resolutions, and take any responsive actions.  The City will respond to the complainant in writing (and/or, where appropriate, a format that is accessible to the complainant) within a reasonable period.

Complaints may also be filed directly with a federal agency which provided funding for the service, program, or activity in question.  If you do not know the identity of the specific federal funding agency, the complaint may be filed with:

Federal Coordination and Compliance Section
 Civil Rights Division
 U.S. Department of Justice
 950 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
 Washington, D.C. 20530
Phone: 1-888-848-5306 

Email: FCS.CRT@usdoj.gov

Water service lines are small pipes that carry water from the City of Norfolk’s water mains, located in the streets, into individual homes and buildings.

The property owner owns the service line from the meter box, typically at the property line or in the sidewalk, to the plumbing inside the building.

Service lines can be made of lead, galvanized steel (which might contain lead), plastic, brass, copper, cast iron, or ductile iron.

Homes built before 1988 may have lead pipes that connect the home to the utility’s water main. Homes built after 1988 should not have a lead service line.

Other sources of lead include plumbing fixtures (faucets, valves, fittings, etc.), indoor copper plumbing pipes with lead solder, and lead paint. Lead paint in homes is typically the greatest contributor to lead exposure for young children.

Lead solder was commonly used to join copper pipes until around 1986 when it was banned. As lead solder is in direct contact with copper pipe, lead could be released into the drinking water. Lead paint was banned for residential use in 1978. Homes built before this time may have lead-based paint and dust contaminated with lead-based paint.

A service line will typically enter your home or building through the wall or floor in the basement or crawlspace. The exposed pipe usually connects to a water shut-off valve. Contact us if you need help finding your water service line.

When water leaves the City of Norfolk water treatment plant, it does not contain lead; it is safe to drink and complies with Federal and State standards.

Lead gets into the drinking water due to the corrosion of lead pipes or other parts made from lead, including the service line between the street and your home or building. We use a corrosion control treatment that coats the lining of the water system to reduce lead in the water. This treatment has been used for over three decades and sampling results continue to show that it is effective. The water mains in the street that distribute water from the treatment plant are mostly made of iron or plastic and do not leach lead into the drinking water.

Prolonged lead exposure can lead to health problems. Pregnant women, young children and elderly adults are most impacted. In pregnant women, lead can be passed to the fetus through the placental membrane leading to premature deliveries and reduced growth. In young children, low levels of lead exposure have been related to damage to the central and peripheral nervous system, learning disabilities, shorter height, impaired hearing, and impaired blood cell formation and function. For adults, high levels of lead exposure can cause damage to the kidneys, brain, and nervous system.

According to the US EPA, there is no safe level of lead that can be consumed or ingested.

Since the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) first published the Lead and Copper Rule in 1991, it has been revised multiple times to better protect children and communities at risk for lead exposure. After several years of review and analysis, the EPA released Lead and Copper Rule Revisions on October 16, 2021. City of Norfolk must comply with the rule by October 16, 2024. Key Lead and Copper Rule Revisions requirements include:

• Develop a materials inventory of all service lines – public and private
• Create a lead service line replacement plan based on the results of the inventory
• Update/expand the compliance sampling pool based on new criteria
• Prepare a sampling plan for schools and licensed daycares
• Review and/or develop the corrosion control program

For more information on the Lead and Copper Rule, visit:

• United States EPA Lead and Copper Rule
• United States EPA Revised Lead and Copper Rule

The City of Norfolk is committed to providing safe and clean water to all of our customers. We comply with all laws to maintain high water quality. In 2021 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revised their Lead and Copper Rule. Under the revisions, water systems are required to perform an inventory of water service line materials to learn if the water system contains any lead or galvanized steel water service lines. Based on the inventory, Norfolk has developed a plan for replacement of the lead service lines and will work with the impacted property owners.

Our chemists continuously monitor drinking water. The water production team utilizes a corrosion control treatment, which coats the lining of service lines, indoor pipes, fixtures, and solder, to reduce lead exposure into the distribution system. This corrosion control treatment has been in place for over three decades. To date, sampling results indicate that our corrosion control treatment is effective.

Verify your service line’s materials by following the instructions provided on our Service Line Material Self-Reporting Form.

If you are concerned about lead in your drinking water, contact the Water Quality Lab for a sampling kit by calling 757-441-5678 or visit Your Tap Water for more information. Follow the steps at “How to Reduce Your Risk”.  

Report your service line materials using our online Service Line Material Self-Reporting Form.

If you think you have a lead service line or lead solder, a metal alloy made from lead and tin used to join pipes together, you can take steps to decrease your lead exposure, including: 

• Running drinking water for at least five (5) minutes before you use it for drinking or cooking if the water has gone unused for more than six hours. In doing so, you are flushing stagnant water and getting fresh water from the water main pipe.
• Using fresh, cold, running water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula.
• Removing and cleaning faucet screens and aerators every six months.
• Buying plumbing fixtures (faucets, valves, sinks, hose bibs, etc.) that have zero- or low-lead content meeting the current “lead-free” requirements. Read the labels of new plumbing fixtures closely.
• Using a National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)-Certified home water treatment device, faucet, or pitcher filter that removes lead. The device must be both NSF 42- and NSF 53- certified to remove lead.
• Replacing your lead service line.

If you are concerned about lead poisoning, immediately visit: the U.S. EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline. Fill out the online form (U.S. EPA Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water) or call 1-800-424-LEAD (1-800-424-5323).. Follow the steps at “How to Reduce Your Risk”. 

The 2021 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule Revisions require all water systems, including the City of Norfolk, to prepare a service line inventory of both water system-owned and customer-owned materials. The City of Norfolk has created our service line inventory, which is available at https://www.norfolk.gov/6309/Water-Service-Line-Inventory-Page.

Verification sites were selected based on locations where we currently have no records for the service line material.

You can also determine your service line material by following the instructions on our Self-Reporting Survey.

For each verification site, the City of Norfolk contractor will dig two small test holes within 2-3 feet on either side of the water meter to visually verify the water service line material. Our contractor uses vacuum excavation to dig an approximately 12-inch-by-12-inch hole, generally within grassy areas on either side of the meter. It takes about 30 minutes to dig and look at the pipe, and you do not need to be home. The hole will be closed, and the area will be restored to its original appearance.

The physical address associated with the water service line be notified via postcard that the property will be inspected. A reminder door hanger will be provided approximately one week before the inspection.

This materials verification has no cost to our customers.

We will be inspecting the outside of the pipe at the water meter near the street. We do not anticipate shutting off the water.

Once your service line material is verified, the inspector will leave a door hanger noting the service line material. If the line is lead or galvanized steel, you will also receive a flyer which has steps to protect your health, including instructions on flushing the water service line.

The CDC has not identified a safe level of lead consumption, and even low levels of lead exposure can cause cognitive impairments in children. Meanwhile, exposure to copper does not carry the same health risks.

The action level for lead is 15 parts per billion and is proposed to be reduced to 10 parts per billion in the proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements. This low, and lowering, threshold reflects the impact of lead even at low concentrations. However, the action level for copper is 1,300 parts per billion, reflecting how much safer low levels of copper exposure are. In fact, the CDC states that “It is essential for people to ingest small amounts of copper every day in food and water.” The City’s corrosion control practices easily maintain copper concentrations well below this limit. For more information on copper in drinking water, visit the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s ToxFAQs for Copper webpage.

The 2021 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule Revisions require all water systems, including the City of Norfolk, to prepare a service line inventory of both water system-owned and customer-owned materials. The City of Norfolk is proactively creating our service line inventory, which will be posted to our website by late 2024.

Verification sites were selected based on locations where we currently have no records for the service line material.

You can also determine your service line material by following the instructions on our Self-Reporting Survey.

For each verification site, the City of Norfolk contractor will dig two small test holes within 2-3 feet on either side of the water meter to visually verify the water service line material. Our contractor uses vacuum excavation to dig an approximately 12-inch-by-12-inch hole, generally within grassy areas on either side of the meter. It takes about 30 minutes to dig and look at the pipe, and you do not need to be home. The hole will be closed, and the area will be restored to its original appearance.

The physical address associated with the water service line will be notified via postcard that the property will be inspected. A reminder door hanger will be provided approximately one week before the inspection.

This materials verification has no cost to our customers.

We will be inspecting the outside of the pipe at the water meter near the street. We do not anticipate shutting off the water.

Once your service line material is verified, the inspector will leave a door hanger noting the service line material. If the line is lead or galvanized steel, you will also receive a flyer which has steps to protect your health, including instructions on flushing the water service line.

The CDC has not identified a safe level of lead consumption, and even low levels of lead exposure can cause cognitive impairments in children. Meanwhile, exposure to copper does not carry the same health risks.

The action level for lead is 15 parts per billion and is proposed to be reduced to 10 parts per billion in the proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements. This low, and lowering, threshold reflects the impact of lead even at low concentrations. However, the action level for copper is 1,300 parts per billion, reflecting how much safer low levels of copper exposure are. In fact, the CDC states that “It is essential for people to ingest small amounts of copper every day in food and water.” The City’s corrosion control practices easily maintain copper concentrations well below this limit. For more information on copper in drinking water, visit the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s ToxFAQs for Copper webpage.

Minimum age requirements vary by assignment. For general volunteers, we accept applications from volunteers aged 15 or older. Volunteers under 18 must have their application signed by a parent or guardian.

Volunteer hours are based on individual availability. We will work with your schedule!

New positions are posted as they become available. Some positions may require special skills, which are included in the description. We’ll work with you to ensure the best fit between volunteer and assignment.

We can credit volunteer hours with participating schools and community service organizations. Ask your school or organization for volunteer requirements. Court-order volunteers are not applicable.

Group volunteering may be available for specific positions and assignments where specified. For more information, contact the Volunteer Coordinator.

All adult volunteers 18 & up must complete a fingerprint scan and drug screening (at no cost) before beginning volunteer service.

ETC Institute administered a resident survey for the City of Norfolk, VA during the fall of 2022 and again in the spring of 2024. The results of that survey were shared with the residents and were used by management to help shape recommendations for the FY 2024 FY 2025, and FY 2026 budgets.

The purpose of the survey is to objectively assess resident satisfaction with the delivery of city services and to gather input about priorities for the city. By conducting the survey every two years, we can measure where we have made progress, what may still need more improvement, and what new areas of concern for residents have emerged since the last survey.

City administration and staff will review the feedback and make appropriate improvements in programs and services. A number of the priorities raised by residents in the 2024 survey were addressed in the FY 2026 Operating Budget. While not every need may be addressed immediately, the priorities help identify what residents think are most important to work on in the future. Listening to you, our citizens, is critical to our effort in becoming a Well-Managed Government.

A random sample survey is one in which the people responding are chosen at random by the organization conducting the survey. The respondents don’t sign up to participate.

Every randomized sample survey attempts to estimate a measurement for the full population being studied by measuring a small sample. There will always be some difference between the sample and the population. Researchers estimate how much this difference is by using two related statistics: the MOE (Margin of Error) and the confidence interval. The 2024 resident survey had an MOE of +/- 3.2% with a confidence interval of 95%. This means that the true population measurement for the questions on this survey would fall within 3.2% of the sample measurement 95% of the time. In only 5% (100% - 95%) of the possible measures would the population measure more than 3.2% difference.

A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is a permit to allow a use on property that requires additional review to ensure it is appropriate at the site proposed.

Each zoning district contains a Table of Uses which indicates if a use is permitted (P), requires a Conditional Use Permit (C) or may require a Conditional Use Permit under certain circumstances (P/C).

https://www.norfolkva.gov/norfolkzoningordinance/

Applicants must submit an application for a CUP to the Planning Department.  Applications are then considered at a public hearing before the City Planning Commission (CPC), which makes a recommendation for consideration by the City Council.

The typical CUP request takes 2-3 months to complete the process from beginning to end.  This may vary, however, as some items may require additional time to process or review prior to CPC consideration.  

Conditional use permit applications are available at: 

https://www.norfolk.gov/831/Applications-Forms

The application fee is $1,080.00.

Questions regarding the conditional use permit process?  Please contact the Norfolk Department of City Planning at: 

(757) 664-4752 or email at: planning@norfolk.gov. 

You can obtain a library card by visiting any Norfolk Public Library location and showing a photo ID and proof of residence in Virginia.  A parent or legal guardian must complete and sign applications for patrons under the age of 18. 

You can print and fill out the application in advance and bring to the library in person.

A Library card is free to anyone who lives in Virginia or works in Norfolk. Virginians who do not live or work in Norfolk may obtain full access to eBooks for a $35 annual fee.  Library cards are not issued to non-Virginia residents.  Additional information is available in our circulation policy.

Yes. Library or Internet cards are required to use a public computer. An Internet card is similar to a library card but does not allow item checkouts. You will need to know your PIN number to be able to log in to NPL’s public computers; your card number is your login ID, and your PIN is your password.

A PIN is a 4 digit number that provides an extra level of security when using your library card to reserve books or renew items online or by phone or look up your personal information in the online catalog. To obtain a PIN ask for one when you apply for your card, or if you already have a card bring photo ID to any branch and request one. We cannot release PIN numbers without a photo ID and therefore cannot release a PIN number over the phone.

Report the loss at once to any branch library by phone or in person. You are responsible for materials taken out with the card until the card is reported lost or stolen. A fee of $1 is charged for a new card.

All library cards must be renewed once a year. Library card renewals must take place in-person at any library location, and you will be asked to verify your address, telephone number, and eligibility for access to eBooks. If you are a non-Norfolk resident and would like access to our eBooks, there is an annual fee.

Yes, to best serve our community we are currently offering online renewal if your information is correct and you do not need to make any updates. You can renew online through our website by going to “My Account” and logging in with your library card number and PIN.

When you log in, you should see on the right side of your screen (above number of Checkouts) either that your status is good or, if your card is expiring within 28 days, the expiration date and a button for online renewal.

However, if you need to change your library card information, you will still need to go in person to one of the open locations with your picture ID.

To change your address, bring your card and photo ID to any branch and ask to have your address changed. If you have a PIN, you can make the change online by following this link and clicking on "My Account" and then "Change My Address" after logging in. To receive email rather than paper notices, add your email address to your contact information by following the same steps. Accounts with an email address will automatically receive email rather than paper notices. Please make sure that emails from npl.webmaster@norfolk.gov with a subject line of "Library notice" are allowed through any filters on your email account.

Each time you borrow an item, a date due receipt or card will be given to you and will indicate the day you should return the items to the library. Please check this date carefully. Due date receipts are a courtesy. You may also check on your due dates by calling a Norfolk Public Library or by viewing your online account.

Book Express books circulate for one week with no renewals.
High Demand items circulate for two weeks with 2 renewals.
Videos circulate for one week with 2 renewals. 
Mobile Delivery items circulate for four weeks with 2 renewals allowed.
Most other items circulate for three weeks with 2 renewals allowed.

Yes. You may check out a total of 25 items out at any one time, and there are individual limits on material formats. For example, only 5 DVDs may be checked out at one time. For a complete list, see under "Material Loan Limits and Load Periods" in our Circulation Policy.

Yes. To renew items:

1. Call any branch's Circulation Desk. Please have your card number handy when you call.
2. If you have a PIN, visit the online catalog and sign in with your card number and PIN, then click in the box next to the title of the item you want to renew, and click on the "Renew Selected Item" button, or click "Renew All Items". You cannot renew items online if you owe $10 or more in fines or have 5 or more overdue items.
3. Bring the item(s) in to the Circulation Desk of any Library branch.

Renewable items may be renewed twice for the same period as the original loan. Items cannot be renewed if someone else has requested (put a hold on) them or if they've already been renewed twice. 

Renewal requests for Interlibrary Loan items must be placed through the ILL office at (757) 664-7328, ext. 336. Staff will notify you if your ILL renewal is approved.

If you have overdue materials, the Library will send you two reminder letters or emails. If you think the letters may be in error, please bring them to your local library. Unfortunately, we cannot give you information about your library records or adjust them over the telephone. If you think you're not receiving notices, please make sure your contact information is up-to-date.

Please note: Effective July 1, 2021, overdue fines for late materials are not charged. Previous fines and fees (incurred before July 1, 2021) are still in effect and must be paid for accounts to return to good standing. 

If you have items that are 28 days overdue the items will be declared lost, and you will be assessed replacement and processing fees. If you have unpaid bills totaling $25 for a period of 45 days, your account will be referred to the Norfolk Department of Finance.

If you owe fines or fees of $10.00 or more, your borrowing privileges are suspended.

More details can be found in our Circulation Policy.

Yes. You may pay your fines online by using our SmartPay app. Have your library card number and PIN available as you'll need them to log in. 

If you prefer to pay by check, please make your check payable to "City of Norfolk", and clearly write the library account number on the check. Mail the check to:

Circulation Department
Norfolk Public Library
235 E Plume St
Norfolk VA 23510

During regular hours, any Norfolk Public Library item may be returned to any Norfolk Public Library agency regardless of which agency it was borrowed from. After closing, books and audio/visual items may be returned to the book and media return located at each library branch. STEM Equipment must be returned to the original branch while open. You will be held responsible for damaged A/V materials returned in an outside book return.

Yes. You can ask to have a circulating item transferred to any branch by placing a hold in the online catalog or by calling any branch. You can also place a hold on any item that's currently checked out.

To place a hold, you must not owe $10 or more in fines or have 5 or more overdue items.  

To place a hold online:

1. Perform a search for an item.
2. When you find the item you want, click on the Place Hold link.
3. Log in if you have not previously done so. This will require a PIN number, as well as your library card number.
4. The Submit Hold window appears. Select the branch where you want to pick the item up.
5. Click Submit Hold.

When your items arrive, we’ll send you an email notice unless you do not have an email address, in which case we’ll send you a print notice. If you have not given us an email address or you have changed your email, please let us know on your next visit to the library.

Most materials in Storage are available for checkout by placing a hold on them and picking them up at any of our public locations. We deliver reference materials to the branch of your choice for use there and cannot be checked out. To request these items, see previous question.

For more detailed information, visit our policy page. If you have further questions or need assistance, please visit or call one of your local Norfolk Public Library branches. Our librarians are knowledgeable and happy to help.

Yes, the Internet is accessible at all branches on Library computers as well as through our wireless network. If you have a Library card, you may call any branch during regular hours to reserve time on a computer.

In order to use a public computer, you'll need to register for a library card or an Internet card. You will also need to know your PIN number. If you do not know your PIN number, you may request it from the Circulation Desk with a valid photo ID. Use of the Internet in the library is governed by the Library's Computer and Internet Use Policy.

The Library offers standard office software such as the Microsoft Office suite and an Internet browser.

Yes, all libraries have free wireless access available. The wireless network is security-enabled and requires a network key and username and password. Please ask at any service desk for logon information. Find more information about the NPL wireless network.

Yes. All of our branch libraries have scanners available for public use.

Some of our branches offer color printing. Currently, our color printers are located at Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch at Broad Creek, Lafayette Branch and Larchmont Branch.

Yes. We offer free training workshops on such subjects as basic computer use, the Internet, web-based email, smartphones, eBooks, and Microsoft Office programs. View the current technology schedule or find class materials and other helpful links on our Technology Training Center page.

The Library offers materials in large print and audiobook formats which may be useful for persons who are blind, unable to read standard print, or who otherwise cannot use standard books. Other services are available through the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired which offers titles in cassette and disc, Braille, large print, and electronic text. Required playback equipment and accessories are also furnished. Books and equipment are mailed to and from eligible persons using the "free matter for the blind" mailing privilege. For more information, visit Accessibility Services.

We do not currently offer faxing services.

We do not offer proctoring services. However, Tidewater Community College (TCC) does offer proctoring services at four testing centers in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and Portsmouth. Locations and contact numbers are available on the TCC website.

In order to use and reserve RMP Studio spaces and equipment, RMP Studio users must be 13 years of age or older and have a current, valid Norfolk Public Library card. Patrons under 13 (& above 8 ) may use the RMP Studio if accompanied (at all times) by a parent, guardian or adult caregiver aged 18 or older. The accompanying adult must have a valid Norfolk Public Library card.

Yes, you need a reservation to use the studio. Without a reservation, you may try to drop-in the day of your intended use, but equipment is not guaranteed.

1. Click the "Make a Reservation" link.
2. Choose the Space you would like to reserve.
3. Click "Next Available" to see the next available reservation time or "Go to Date" to check a particular date.
4. Click the green square under the time you wish to start or use the dropdown menu to choose your time.
5. Click "Submit Times".
6. Review the RMP Maker Studio Guidelines.
7. Submit the Booking Details form with your full name, NPL library card number, contact information and details about your project.
8. Click "Submit My Booking".
9. The Studio Manager will review the reservation request.
10. If your project details meet RMP Maker Studio Guidelines and equipment abilities, your reservation will be approved.

Recording/Music Studio

• WhisperRoom Soundproof Booth Studio
• Logic Pro or Garage Band Software
• 2 Microphones & 2 Headphones
• Digital Audio Interface
• MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad
• Fender Electric Guitar
• Fender Electric Bass
• Roland Electronic Drum Kit
• Casio Electronic Keyboard
• Epiphone Acoustic Guitar
• Pioneer All-In-One DJ System

Photo/Video Studio

• Canon EOS Rebel DSLR
• Fujifilm X-T3 26.1MP Camera
• Sony a7R IV Camera
• Lighting Set
• 13-foot wide Green Screen
• Several Backdrops
• Adobe Creative Suite 

3D Printing Studio

• Bambu Labs X-1 Carbon Printer
• FlashForge 5M Printer
• Various PLA Filament

Cricut Studio

• Cricut Explore Air 2
• Cricut Explore 4
• Heat Press & Cutting Mats
• Note: Patrons must bring their own vinyl or paper to cut.

Laser Studio

• Xtools p2S 55W Diode Laser Cutter/Engraver
• Note: Patrons must bring their own basswood, acrylic, or leather to cut/engrave.

Sewing Studio

• 2 Singer Sewing Machoines
• 4 Brother Sewing Machines
• Brother Embroidery Machine
• Babylock serger
• Note: Patrons must bring their fabric.

Gaming/Crafting Studio

• Meta Quest 2 VR System
• Nintendo Classic Mini
• Sega Genesis Classic Mini
• Wonderbots
• 3D Doodler
• Giant Lego Table
• Jewelry Making Kit
• Traditional Paper Crafting & Art Supplies

Patrons are required to use personal external storage such as flash drives and/or cloud-based options to back-up projects. RMP Studio visitors may connect personal devices to RMP Studio equipment. However, support for such equipment may not be available.

For security and privacy, the Library reserves the right to erase user files left on Library-owned hard drives or flash drives without prior notice.

Compatibility of personal devices with RMP Studio hardware and software is not guaranteed.

In order to use and reserve RMP Studio spaces and equipment, RMP Studio users must be 13 years of age or older and have a current, valid Norfolk Public Library card. Patrons under 13 (& above 8 ) may use the RMP Studio if accompanied (at all times) by a parent, guardian or adult caregiver aged 18 or older. The accompanying adult must have a valid Norfolk Public Library card.

Food and drink are not allowed in the RMP Studio.  

All bags and any personal materials not pertaining to Studio projects must be checked in the lockers provided before beginning any activity in the RMP Studio.

• Certain advanced equipment and software may require additional training and practical demonstration by the staff. 
• Users of Recording, Photo/Video, Sewing, Laser cutting and Engraving, and Material Cutting Studios must schedule and complete an orientation on equipment and policies prior to first use.  
• Staff is available for assistance with troubleshooting, program startup and setup of equipment. 
• Staff cannot assist with extensive artistic consultations, graphic design, recording or editing or other lengthy requests.  
• The Studio does not provide one-on-one production or recording assistance.  
• The Studio Manager may, at their own discretion, assist with certain projects. 

RMP Studio computers are reserved for patrons working on digital media, crafting, coding or 3D printing projects. Internet browsing or email usage is not allowed unless related to the project being worked on, including researching software usage and troubleshooting.

The RMP Studio may not be used to distribute or sell goods or services.  

The Library and its staff are not liable for any loss, damage or expense sustained by any user due to the utilization of services, equipment, software, advice or information.  

Patrons who have not arrived within thirty minutes of the scheduled start time will be considered no-shows and the reservation will be removed.  

Patrons who arrive late will not have sessions extended.

Failure to provide 24 hours’ notice of a cancellation may be grounds for suspension of RMP Studio privileges.  

RMP Studio spaces may not be left unattended while reserved and in use. If the responsible cardholder leaves a reserved space unattended without notifying Studio staff (even if others are present in their group), the reservation will be immediately forfeited and future reservations may be denied.  
 
Once a Studio space has been vacated for more than 30 minutes, the Library reserves the right to remove the user's belongings without assuming responsibility or liability thereof and to reassign the room to an available status.  

Equipment, including but not limited to software, instruments and cameras, is available for checkout for use only in the RMP Studio unless otherwise noted.  

Patrons must save all work and begin check-in procedures 1 hour before the end of a session. Staff is not required to provide time warnings. Additional time in the Studios or on computers will not be provided because a media project is rendering, saving or is in the process of finalizing. As such, computers will be logged out if another patron is waiting.  

Patrons are responsible for returning all equipment directly to RMP Studio staff on time and in good condition.  

Items will be checked in after a thorough inspection for condition. Patrons are required to be present during this inspection.

Availability of equipment is not guaranteed, and reservations are encouraged. Availability is contingent on patrons returning equipment in a timely manner.  

Due to the creative and collaborative nature of the RMP Studio, there is no guarantee of a silent atmosphere. All RMP Studio visitors are asked to be respectful of each other and of the Library's Code of Conduct regarding noise.  

Users must shut doors to the Recording Studio when in use.  
 
If sound can be heard outside the RMP Studio space in the library, users will be asked to lower the volume or vacate the Studio.  

Only NPL staff can add, remove or modify any library-owned equipment including but not limited to cables, keyboards, mice, speakers, instruments, software, racks, wiring etc.  

Users are not permitted to install or uninstall any software.  

RMP Studio-created content must conform to acceptable community and legal standards.  

RMP Studio staff will not convert media or finalize projects in the absence of the content owner. RMP Studio patrons must be present at all times while projects are digitizing, saving and/or rendering.  

Patrons are required to use personal external storage such as flash drives and/or cloud-based options to back-up projects. RMP Studio visitors may connect personal devices to RMP Studio equipment. However, support for such equipment may not be available. 

For security and privacy, the Library reserves the right to erase user files left on Library-owned hard drives or flash drives without prior notice.  

Compatibility of personal devices with RMP Studio hardware and software is not guaranteed.  

NPL staff is not responsible for patrons’ or work product.  

The Studio Manager reserves the right to suspend RMP Studio privileges or remove any patron or group that violates RMP Studio or NPL policies.  

NPL staff must have free access to RMP Studio production spaces at all times.  

The Library retains the right to monitor all activity conducted on Library premises for the purpose of ensuring compliance with Library policies and procedures.  

NPL staff may disconnect personal devices which interfere with the operation of Library equipment or ability of other users to complete projects.  

All RMP Studio computers, rooms, Studios and equipment may be reserved by NPL staff for training, programs or maintenance.  

Reservations for either Studio may be made up to two months in advance via the LibCal scheduling portal.  

Walk-ins may be accepted if Studios are not reserved with the exception of the recording studio.

Groups may not make back-to-back reservations under different names.  

Patrons must check in at the desk with their own, valid Norfolk Public Library card. The name on the card must match the name on the reservation. Other members of the group will not be allowed to enter the Studio without the reservation cardholder.  

Studio reservation is required for Mac computer usage.

Studio sessions are issued in 3-hour increments. No additional time is granted on the same day.  

Limit of 4 patrons in the Recording Studio.  

Limit of 6 patrons in the Photo/Video Studio.

Reservations for the Studio may be made up to two months in advance via the LibCal scheduling portal.  

Walk-ins are accepted if the Studio is not reserved. 
 
Back-to-back reservations are not permitted.

Reservations for sewing machines, Glowforge, and the Cricut machines are available in 3-hour increments. 

Limit of 1 person per machine. 

Materials for personal projects are not provided by the RMP Studio and must be furnished by the patron. 

Reservations for the 3D printer may be made up to two months in advance via the LibCal scheduling portal.  

Walk-ins are accepted if the 3D printer is not reserved. 
 
Back-to-back reservations are not permitted.

Reservations for the 3D printer are available for the entire day as printing may take longer than a normal operating day. 

Multi-day prints are not allowed at the RMP Studio.

Limit of 1 person per machine.

Filament color is limited to what is currently available in the Studio. 

Printed items must be picked up within 48 hours or they will be discarded. 

Printer builds must be approved by Studio Manager prior to printing.

You can obtain a library card by visiting any Norfolk Public Library location and showing a photo ID and proof of residence in Virginia.  A parent or legal guardian must complete and sign applications for patrons under the age of 18. 

You can print and fill out the application in advance and bring to the library in person.

A Library card is free to anyone who lives in Virginia or works in Norfolk. Virginians who do not live or work in Norfolk may obtain full access to eBooks for a $35 annual fee. Library cards are not issued to non-Virginia residents. Additional information is available in our circulation policy.

Yes. Library or Internet cards are required to use a public computer. An Internet card is similar to a library card but does not allow item checkouts. You will need to know your PIN number to be able to log in to NPL’s public computers; your card number is your login ID, and your PIN is your password.

A PIN is a 4 digit number that provides an extra level of security when using your library card to reserve books or renew items online or by phone or look up your personal information in the online catalog. To obtain a PIN ask for one when you apply for your card, or if you already have a card bring photo ID to any branch and request one. We cannot release PIN numbers without a photo ID and therefore cannot release a PIN number over the phone.

Report the loss at once to any branch library by phone or in person. You are responsible for materials taken out with the card until the card is reported lost or stolen. A fee of $1 is charged for a new card.

All library cards must be renewed once a year. Library card renewals must take place in-person at any library location, and you will be asked to verify your address, telephone number, and eligibility for access to eBooks. If you are a non-Norfolk resident and would like access to our eBooks, there is an annual fee.

Yes, to best serve our community we are currently offering online renewal if your information is correct and you do not need to make any updates. You can renew online through our website by going to “My Account” and logging in with your library card number and PIN.

When you log in, you should see on the right side of your screen (above number of Checkouts) either that your status is good or, if your card is expiring within 28 days, the expiration date and a button for online renewal.

However, if you need to change your library card information, you will still need to go in person to one of the open locations with your picture ID.

To change your address, bring your card and photo ID to any branch and ask to have your address changed. If you have a PIN, you can make the change online by following this link and clicking on "My Account" and then "Change My Address" after logging in. To receive email rather than paper notices, add your email address to your contact information by following the same steps. Accounts with an email address will automatically receive email rather than paper notices. Please make sure that emails from npl.webmaster@norfolk.gov with a subject line of "Library notice" are allowed through any filters on your email account.

Each time you borrow an item, a date due receipt or card will be given to you and will indicate the day you should return the items to the library. Please check this date carefully. Due date receipts are a courtesy. You may also check on your due dates by calling a Norfolk Public Library or by viewing your online account.

• Book Express books circulate for one week with no renewals.
• High Demand items circulate for two weeks with 2 renewals.
• Videos circulate for one week with 2 renewals. 
• Mobile Delivery items circulate for four weeks with 2 renewals allowed.
• Most other items circulate for three weeks with 2 renewals allowed.

Yes. You may check out a total of 25 items out at any one time, and there are individual limits on material formats. For example, only 5 DVDs may be checked out at one time. For a complete list, see under "Material Loan Limits and Load Periods" in our Circulation Policy.

Yes. To renew items:

1. Call any branch's Circulation Desk. Please have your card number handy when you call.
2. If you have a PIN, visit the online catalog and sign in with your card number and PIN, then click in the box next to the title of the item you want to renew, and click on the "Renew Selected Item" button, or click "Renew All Items". You cannot renew items online if you owe $10 or more in fines or have 5 or more overdue items.
3. Bring the item(s) in to the Circulation Desk of any Library branch.

Renewable items may be renewed twice for the same period as the original loan. Items cannot be renewed if someone else has requested (put a hold on) them or if they've already been renewed twice. 

Renewal requests for Interlibrary Loan items must be placed through the ILL office at (757) 664-7328, ext. 336. Staff will notify you if your ILL renewal is approved.

If you have overdue materials, the Library will send you two reminder letters or emails. If you think the letters may be in error, please bring them to your local library. Unfortunately, we cannot give you information about your library records or adjust them over the telephone. If you think you're not receiving notices, please make sure your contact information is up-to-date.

Please note: Effective July 1, 2021, overdue fines for late materials are not charged. Previous fines and fees (incurred before July 1, 2021) are still in effect and must be paid for accounts to return to good standing. 

If you have items that are 28 days overdue the items will be declared lost, and you will be assessed replacement and processing fees. If you have unpaid bills totaling $25 for a period of 45 days, your account will be referred to the Norfolk Department of Finance.

If you owe fines or fees of $10.00 or more, your borrowing privileges are suspended.

More details can be found in our Circulation Policy.

Yes. You may pay your fines online by using our SmartPay app. Have your library card number and PIN available as you'll need them to log in. 

If you prefer to pay by check, please make your check payable to "City of Norfolk", and clearly write the library account number on the check. Mail the check to:

Circulation Department
Norfolk Public Library
235 E Plume St
Norfolk VA 23510

During regular hours, any Norfolk Public Library item may be returned to any Norfolk Public Library agency regardless of which agency it was borrowed from. After closing, books and audio/visual items may be returned to the book and media return located at each library branch. STEM Equipment must be returned to the original branch while open. You will be held responsible for damaged A/V materials returned in an outside book return.

Yes. You can ask to have a circulating item transferred to any branch by placing a hold in the online catalog or by calling any branch. You can also place a hold on any item that's currently checked out.

To place a hold, you must not owe $10 or more in fines or have 5 or more overdue items.  

To place a hold online:

1. Perform a search for an item.
2. When you find the item you want, click on the Place Hold link.
3. Log in if you have not previously done so. This will require a PIN number, as well as your library card number.
4. The Submit Hold window appears. Select the branch where you want to pick the item up.
5. Click Submit Hold.

When your items arrive, we’ll send you an email notice unless you do not have an email address, in which case we’ll send you a print notice. If you have not given us an email address or you have changed your email, please let us know on your next visit to the library.

Most materials in Storage are available for checkout by placing a hold on them and picking them up at any of our public locations. We deliver reference materials to the branch of your choice for use there and cannot be checked out. To request these items, see previous question.

For more detailed information, visit our . If you have further questions or need assistance, please visit or call one of your local Norfolk Public Library branches. Our librarians are knowledgeable and happy to help.

The online library catalog is available here. If you have a Library card you may use it to renew items, put items on hold, order items not owned by NPL from other libraries through Interlibrary Loan, check fines and the due dates for items you currently have checked out, or update your address. It is not currently possible to pay fines online. If you need assistance with your search, please feel free to call any of our Norfolk Public Library locations.

If you cannot find a book you need in our online catalog, you may request that a copy be sent from another library system through Interlibrary Loan (ILL). Please first confirm that the book is not in our collection. Also, please note that audiovisual material such as DVDs, audiobooks, and books that were published less than 6 months previous to your request are not available for Interlibrary Loan.

ILL items have different loan periods, fines, and renewals. Please read the ILL Policy for more details and to request an ILL.

For information about authors, new books, reviews, book discussion guides, or to receive monthly updates of new books, visit our Reading Recommendations page. Book reviews are also often available in the catalog record of individual books by viewing the "A Look Inside ..." tab.

Yes. To search for a specific large print book:

1. In the online catalog, click the “Large Print Book Search” text under the search bars.
2. On the Large Print search screen, type in the title of the book.
3. Click the blue search button.

If you would like to see all new Large Print books, click on “New Items at NPL” on the right-hand side of the screen. Then, click on the “Large Print” text in the left-hand column.

Yes, you can find full-text articles from current and archived publications in our online databases, though you must have an NPL card to access most of them.

We also offer online access to the New York Times and our digital magazine service, Magzter. Once you have created an account using your library card number, you may download unlimited digital copies of popular magazines for free to your computer and mobile devices. For instructions and more information visit our eMagazines & Newspapers page.

Yes. Our eBooks can be searched for in our online catalog, or accessed directly through our multiple providers. Visit our eBooks page for instructions, links, a schedule of eBook classes, and a list of other sources for free downloadable books in PDF, EPUB, and Kindle formats (suitable for iPads, Nooks, Kindle devices as well as other e-readers and smartphones).

Our eAudiobooks can also be searched for in our online catalog, or accessed directly through our eAudiobook providers. Visit the eAudiobooks page for instructions and more checkout information.

For general telephone reference, call the Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library Reference staff at 757-441-1750, option 2. We are not currently able to offer general reference via email.

Yes. Email the Sargeant Memorial Collection staff at localhistory@norfolk.gov.

Yes, we have a small collection of books in Spanish, primarily for children, scattered throughout the branches. We have also  begun collecting new Spanish-language books for adults, primarily at the Mary D. Pretlow Branch. Additionally, in the International Language Collection in Storage we have a small, older collection of books in Spanish, German, French, Italian, with a few in Portuguese, Russian, and a few other languages. Books in Storage may be requested through the online catalog or by contacting any Norfolk Public Library Branch.

Yes, we have a growing collection of local history photos and maps in digital format in our Sargeant Memorial Collection.

If you'd like to submit a formal request for a title, please fill out a Patron Request Form and drop it off at any Norfolk Public Library branch. When you submit a Patron Request form you may request that we notify you of whether or not we will purchase it, and place a hold on it for you if we do purchase it. For various reasons we are unable to take formal suggestions for purchase via the Internet at this time.

You can access the service line inventory at: https://www.norfolk.gov/6309/Water-Service-Line-Inventory-Page

If your service line material is listed as “unknown” in the inventory, the material still needs to be determined.  The Customer Self-Reporting page can help you figure out if you have a lead, galvanized steel, copper, or plastic service line on the portion of the service line you own. A licensed plumber can also help figure out if your portion of the service line is lead or galvanized steel. After you or a licensed plumber inspects your line, please submit your results using the survey to help us improve our inventory!

The Lead and Copper Rule requires water systems to send all customers with an unknown service line material, a notification. As a precaution, it identifies your service line material as one of three types and outlines steps to prevent potential exposure to lead in drinking water.

If your service line material is listed as unknown, it does not necessarily mean your service line is lead. You can check and report the material of your service line using the steps on our website: https://www.norfolk.gov/5839/Customer-Self-Reporting. Additionally, there are steps you can take to decrease any exposure, found on our main webpage here: https://www.norfolk.gov/5834/Lead-Reduction-Resources

Once a survey is submitted by a customer, our technical experts review the submission, including the photographs, and typically verify the submission within two weeks. Once the photographs have been confirmed, the submitted survey will be “verified” and the new material will show up in the map. If our experts are unable to confirm the material from the photo, they will reach out to you for additional information. The survey information for your property will only appear on the map if you provide permission to share your submittal.

If you would like to participate in The City of Norfolk Department of Utilities’ Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) program, please sign up at https://www.norfolk.gov/6310/Replacement-Program. Typically, the cost of replacing a lead service line ranges from between $5,000 and $10,000. However, our Lead Service Line Replacement Program will replace both the private and public side service lines at no cost to you if you participate in this program.

The City of Norfolk Department of Utilities’ LSLR Program is currently planning a Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Program to remove all the lead service lines in the water system. Construction for the first phase of this program will begin in 2025. Information about the program that is under development can be found at https://www.norfolk.gov/6310/Replacement-Program or by calling (757) 664-6700.  

If you want to replace the portion of the service line that you own (private side) at your cost, please notify us at (757) 664-6700. The City of Norfolk is required to replace our portion (public side) of a lead service line when a property owner notifies us that they are replacing their portion of the service line. 

Typically, the cost of replacing a lead service line ranges from between $5,000 and $10,000. Under our Lead Service Line Replacement Program, the private side lead service lines will be replaced at no cost you.

Additional funds may be available through the Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SERCAP) Residential Lead Service Line Replacement Program, which provides up to $2,500 in grant funding toward the costs of replacing private side lead service lines coming into the home for eligible low-to-moderate income homeowners. For more information or to apply for the program, contact SERCAP at 540-345-1184, or visit www.sercap.org/.

"Source" means how we determined service line materials. Multiple methods were used, such as installation record review, field inspections, investigating during repairs or replacements, and predictive modeling.

Predictive modeling is a tool that helps predict, analyze and interpret data. In this case, water systems are allowed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and state guidelines to use a mathematical model to predict service line materials based on known data for our system.

Program use of the pool will be determined by the Department of Parks and Recreation.

All spaces will be analyzed for sun and lighting.

Zero entry ramps will be used with wheelchairs furnished by the Department of Parks and Recreation that are suitable for pool use.

There will not be any overhead sprinklers or buckets over the lazy river.

A water slide will be placed at the kiddie pool and the splash pad is placed in the interior area of the lazy river and will not impact the lazy river operations.

The natatorium pools (25 yard and therapy) will feature zero depth entry, whereas PVC aquatics wheelchairs will be used for patrons who have special needs for ingress into the pools and egress out of pools.  The lazy river will not have a zero-depth entry, and a lift would have to be utilized for those who have special needs that want to utilize the lazy river.  The therapy pool may also require a lift as well.

The natatorium pools (25 yard and therapy) will feature zero depth entry whereas PVC aquatics wheelchairs will be used for patrons who have special needs for ingress into the pools and egress out of pools.  The lazy river will not have a zero-depth entry, and a lift would have to be utilized for those who have special needs that want to utilize the lazy river.  The therapy pool may also require a lift as well.

The new Natatorium will feature year-round aquatics programming and instructional venues for all age groups and populations. With amenities like a 25-yard eight lane competitive lap swimming pool, kiddie pool, therapy pool and a lazy river.  It isn’t feasible to have open an outdoor pool for three months of the year that is dependent upon seasonal and temporary employees. Since the pandemic seasonal and temporary lifeguards are very hard to hire. It is a lot more economically feasible and in the department of Parks & Recreation’s best interest to hire full-time year-round aquatics staff as there are more advantages and opportunities to attract and secure full-time employees than seasonal and temp employees.

The proposed site plan for the new project will be designed to accommodate current storm water regulations.

Every attempt to save as many existing trees to provide screening will be accommodated to the furthest extent possible within reason.

The field is a multi-purpose field designated for several permitted athletic sport uses, when the field isn’t permitted for group sports and athletic activities it will be available for general use.

Yes

Parking and site lighting to be low light emitting so as not to bleed into surrounding area.

Design team will analyze

The proposed site plan for the new project will be designed to accommodate current storm water regulations.

The City of Norfolk will evaluate

The team decided to leave the tennis/pickle ball courts and playground as is. The playgrounds are well positioned to be bordered by the multi-purpose field and courts.

Not currently included in the project budget.

Will need to work with the Department of Transportation to determine feasibility with the site layout.

Will work with the Department of Transportation to determine best location to consider installation of a Newport Ave. marked crosswalk.

Licenses are purchased annually. They are valid for one year, beginning January 1 and expire on December 31. 

Licenses may be purchased after December 1 of each year.

Norfolk City Treasurer’s Office

810 Union St, 1st Floor

(757) 664-7800

Norfolk Animal Care Center

5585 Sabre Rd

(757) 441-5505

Section 6.1-8 of the Norfolk City Code allows no more than four adult dogs and four adult cats in any one dwelling unit or premises within the city limits.

A license is required when your cat or dog reaches the age of four (4) months, and after it has received its rabies vaccination.

A current rabies certificate is required. Additionally, documentation that your animal has been spayed or neutered is required in order to receive the reduced rate. 

Duplicate licenses may only be issued through the Treasurer's Office. You must bring your current animal license certificate.

There is a processing fee of $1.00 for a duplicate license. 

The pet owner must be 55 years of age or older, and the pet must have been neutered/spayed.

Contact Animal Control at 757-441-5505.

The Downtown Historic District is the oldest and longest-occupied commercial quarter in Norfolk. Centered around bustling Granby Street, the district is known for its early commercial streetscape. 

The East Freemason Historic District includes several historic buildings that are individually listed in the National Register of Historic Places: Freemason Street Baptist Church, Moses-Myers House, Norfolk Academy and Willoughby-Baylor House. The historic buildings date to the late-1700s and mid-1800s and capture the high-style architecture of wealthy residents and institutions in Norfolk during the Early National Period. 

The locally-designated Ghent Historic District includes two National Register historic districts: Ghent and North Ghent. These planned suburban neighborhoods were built out at the turn of the twentieth century. They are among the city's most iconic examples of City Beautiful and Beaux Arts planning and landscape design.

The Norfolk & Western Railroad Historic District includes commercial and light industrial buildings that grew up in the 1880s around a Norfolk & Western rail spur to Lambert's Point. Development in the district is closely tied to the city's leading Jewish and business entrepreneurs, the Margolius Family, and then new methods of real estate development in Norfolk.

The West Freemason Historic District was the first historic district in Norfolk to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The district is noted for its high-style architecture that spans from c. 1790 to today. In addition to its architecture, West Freemason is significant for its role in efforts to desegregate the Central YMCA--a major legal milestone in Virginia under the Civil Rights Act--and in the early historic preservation movement in Norfolk.

The Linde Air (1918) represents the kind of light industrial development that sprung up between Ghent and Park Place in the early 20th century. The U-shaped building was constructed as a factory for the Linde Air Products Company, which sited its factory here due to its proximity to the railroad. It is a contributing resource in the Norfolk & Western Railroad National Register Historic District. 

While today First Colony Historic Landmark has been renovated for use as apartments, it was constructed in 1908 as a Planters Peanut Storage Co. warehouse building and was used as a coffee storage warehouse by the James G. Gill Company starting in 1923. The historic building contributes to two National Register Historic Districts: the Norfolk & Western Railroad Historic District and the Williamston-Woodland Historic District. 

The Boys & Girls Club was constructed in 1950 in Park Place and was occupied by the club until 2001. It is a contributing resource in the Park Place National Register Historic District and is a good example of local Modern architecture. The building was converted to apartments in 2018 and retains many of its original features.

The Park Place Methodist Church was designated locally in 2022. The church was constructed in 1949 in the Classical Revival Style, as was the adjacent school building; both are contributing resources in the Park Place National Register Historic District.

Zion Methodist Church was constructed between 1896 and 1897. The church's congregation traces its origins back to one of the earliest Methodist congregations in Norfolk. The building is a unique example of Late Victorian Romanesque Revivalism, which was typically used for rural churches and makes it stand out in its urban setting near downtown Norfolk.

Talbot Hall dates to 1802 and is associated with the locally prominent Talbot Family. The house was initially constructed as a summer house for Thomas Talbot by his father, Samuel. The house is an outstanding example of the Federal Style and is one of three early American houses in Norfolk which were formerly plantations located outside the city's historic limits.

The Hodges House was constructed sometime between 1818 and 1832 by John Hodges, a captain in the Virginia Militia in 1784. The house was locally designated in 1978.

The Tidewater Supply Company had several warehouses on this property, the earliest of which dates to 1920 and the later ones dating to the 1950s and 1970s. The warehouses were built immediately adjacent to the railroad tracks. This landmark contributes to two National Register Historic Districts: Park Place and Norfolk & Western Railroad District.

Fire Station No. 12 is a 1923 fire station constructed after the "Great Annexation" of Norfolk County. It was designed by local architects Philip B. Moser and Erwin C. Gutzwiller to blend into the nearby residential neighborhoods. It served as an active fire station until 2018 when a modern facility was constructed across the street.

Application for General Certificate of Appropriateness

Application for New Construction, Additions, & Substantial Renovations

Application for Signs

Application for Discussion Items

Development Certificate

Application for Demolition

Application for Determination of Architectural Appropriateness

Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) uses radio and cellular communication of water usage data rather than manual meter reading. 

For an extended answer, click here.

A small increase in your bill is possible because new meters are more accurate.

For an extended answer, click here.

AMI improves billing accuracy and operation of the drinking water system.

For an extended answer, click here.

Yes, AMI is safe. It uses radio and cellular systems just like AM/FM radios and cell phones.

Yes, your information will be protected. AMI does not communicate personal information.

For an extended answer, click here.

Yes, you will be notified in advance.

For an extended answer, click here.

Yes, you will be notified in advance.

For an extended answer, click here.

Water meter retrofits and replacements will begin in December 2025.

For an extended answer, click here.

There may be a short interruption of about 30 minutes. If this happens, you will informed of how to flush your water lines afterwards.

For an extended answer, click here.

In the vast majority of cases meters are located in the public right-of-way.  In those cases, the installer will not disturb your property during the replacement process, nor need to access your home.  There are a very small number of situations where your meter might be located inside of your home or building. In those cases we will schedule an appointment in advance.  When the meter is located outside of the home, the installer will simply remove the current meter and replace it with a smart meter with a transmitter in the same meter box.  One additional goal of this project is to address any damaged meter boxes.  In that case, the contractor will replace the box with a new one in the same location.