Portsmouth, VA Parking Rules: Driveway Rules (2026)

Sec. 2-217(D)(1), the use-specific standards for Household Living uses, set Portsmouth's driveway limits by dwelling type. For a Dwelling, Single-Family Detached, subsection (a)(iii) provides that "except for circular driveways, no single-family detached dwelling lot shall be served by more than one driveway on the same block face," meaning a typical single-family homeowner is limited to one driveway cut per block face unless the driveway is configured as a circular drive with two connections to the street. The same subsection also requires that the principal entrance face the street from which the dwelling derives its address, and limits each zone lot to only one single-family detached dwelling.

For a Dwelling, Two-Family, subsection (b)(ii) allows more access: "a two-family dwelling shall be served by no more than two (2) driveways on the same block face, which may be less than 75 feet apart," recognizing that a duplex often needs separate access for each unit. These standards are reviewed by the Planning Department during Site Plan or Zoning Permit review under Sec. 2-217(B) before a new driveway cut or curb cut is approved, and any additional driveway beyond what the applicable subsection allows requires either a design that qualifies as a circular driveway or a modification through the city's zoning appeal process.