To assist in the development process, Fairfax County provides an ombudsman for places of worship and non-profit organizations. Partnering with key staff members from the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, the Department of Planning and Zoning and the Department of Transportation, the primary focus of the ombudsman is to work with organizations who are seeking to either expand or relocate their facilities, providing insight and assistance through the various phases of the process.
Religious institutions and community groups planning new construction projects are invited to discuss their plans with the ombudsman and to familiarize themselves with the various aspects of the development process. Also available through this program is the opportunity to meet with representatives from the various county agencies involved in the process. These gatherings, termed "Pre-Application Meetings," are an opportunity for those unfamiliar with the development process to gain valuable information relevant to their particular site or project. County staff can help clarify specific areas of your project that may present unique challenges and direct you as to how to go about overcoming these challenges.
Contact the ombudsman at 703-324-1720, TTY 711, or via e-mail. To request a Pre-Application Meeting, you can do so electronically by clicking on the online submission link below or completing the PDF version and submitting the form by mail or fax. You can also contact the ombudsman and request an application by either mail or by fax. Once you have completed the information on the application and returned it to the ombudsman, you will be contacted to schedule a meeting.
- Pre-Application Meeting Form (online submission)
- Pre-application Meeting Form (PDF)