FAQs • Falls Church, VA • CivicEngage

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Book Club to Go

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1. Where are the Book Club to Go bags located in the library?: Book Club to Go bags are shelved on the upper level against the wall just past the nonfiction shelves. Bags are arranged in alphabetical order by author's last name. Fiction and nonfiction titles are interfiled.

2. How can I determine what kits are currently available?: Each Book Club to Go kit is listed in the Library Catalog. To see if a kit is available for a specific title, simply search for the title as you would any book. If the title is available as a Book Club to Go bag, it will appear in the catalog with "BookClu - kits" as the location/label and "kit" as the "medium." To see a complete list of Book Club to Go titles, search in the catalog using the subject "book club kits" and a list of all titles will be displayed. You can also quickly see all titles listed by fiction and by nonfiction and linked to our catalog on our Book Club to Go page.

3. Who may borrow the kits?: Book Club to Go bags may be borrowed by anyone with a valid Mary Riley Styles Public Library (MRSPL) card. The borrower (who is responsible for the entire bag) may then distribute copies of the book to other members of his / her discussion group.

4. How long may the kits be borrowed?: Book Club to Go kits may be borrowed for 8 weeks. Kits, however, may not be renewed and must be returned by the end of the 8 week loan period.

5. May kits be reserved in advance?: Book Club to Go bags may not be reserved in advance. If, however, a specific bag is checked out, a hold may be placed on that bag, like any other circulating book.

6. How are kits returned to the library?: Book Club to Go bags should be returned in their entirety directly to either the upper level or lower level service desk. Please do not return Book Club to Go bags through the book drops.

7. What fines and fees are charged for overdue, damaged, or lost items?

Replacement cost for each lost book is the price listed on the current paperback/hardback edition used for that bag.
Lost bag fee is $10.
If the entire kit is not returned, the cost is 10 times the cost of the book, plus $10 for the bag.

8. How are titles chosen for Book Club to Go?: Book Club to Go bags are created using copies of books previously read by the library's Senior Book Discussion Series or Thursday Evening Book Discussion Group. And also from new titles purchased for the collection. Have a title you think would make a great Book Club to Go bag? Send us your suggestion!

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Business Licenses

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1. What are the procedures for new businesses moving into the city?: New businesses entering the City of Falls Church have 30 days to register with the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue. However, new businesses must first apply for a commercial / residential occupancy permit and this is done through the city's Environmental Services Department located at:
300 Park Ave.
Suite 300, West Wing
Falls Church, VA 22046.

Once that process has been completed, bring the receipt from the occupancy permit application to the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue to apply for the business license. The process for applying for a business license generally takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

2. What are the procedures for setting up a home-based business?: The procedures for setting up a home-based business are exactly the same as starting a commercial business in the City of Falls Church, the only differences are the fees for the occupancy permits. The fee for a commercial occupancy permit is $50, and the fee for a residential occupancy permit is $40.

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Chapter 7 Transportation

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1. What is the Comprehensive Plan?: The Comprehensive Plan is the city's official policy guide for shaping the future of the City of Falls Church. It is used by staff when reviewing proposals for private development projects, such as Pearson Square, and the Reserve at Tinner Hill.

It is also used by staff developing public projects, such as the inter-modal plaza on South Washington Street and the addition of a sidewalk along the north side of North Roosevelt Street.

Learn more about the Comprehensive Plan.

2. Why update the transportation chapter?: The Transportation Chapter was last updated in 2005. Since then, conditions in the city and the region have changed. Population growth continues to add more automobile traffic to the city's roads. This means increased automobile congestion along Broad Street and Washington Street and cut-through traffic in residential neighborhoods.

At the same time, many residents are asking for increased safety and accessibility when traveling on foot or bicycle. Updating the Transportation Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan provides a new framework for staff to deliver transportation solutions that will meet the needs and desires of the community. The updated Chapter will call for staff to complete planning efforts (like limiting commercial parking in residential neighborhoods) and deliver projects (like safe pedestrian crossing points along Broad Street) according to a prioritized schedule.

3. How and when will the updated chapter be approved?: The updated chapter will be approved by the City Council. The tentative timeframe for adoption is May or June of 2014. Before then, the chapter will be reviewed by the Planning Commission, the Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation (CACT), and the city's other boards and commissions, civic groups, and residents.

4. How can I get involved?

City residents can get involved by:

Sending comments (contact information below)
Participating in community meetings
Attending board and commission work sessions and meetings

To date, the chapter has been discussed at the following work sessions and meetings:

September 16, 2013 - Planning Commission
October 9, 2013 - Citizens Advisory Committee on Transportation (CACT)
November 4, 2013 - Joint Planning Commission and CACT
November 18, 2013 - City Council
December 11, 2013 - Joint Planning Commission and CACT
January 11, 2013 - Community Meeting
January 21, 2014 - Joint City Council and Planning Commission
February 20, 2014 - Joint Environmental Services Council and Tree Commission
February 25, 2014 - Chamber of Commerce
March 4, 2014 - Economic Development Authority (EDA)
March 15, 2014 - Community Meeting

The following work sessions and meetings are tentatively scheduled:

April 9, 2014 - CACT
April 21, 2014 - Planning Commission
May 5, 2014 - City Council

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Commissioner of the Revenue

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1. Does the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue assist City of Falls Church residents with state tax problems and filings?: Yes, in most cases the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue can assist city residents with individual state tax questions and electronic filings. However, because of office size and manpower we are unable to assist city residents in the preparation of individual state tax forms (760, 763, 760PY, and 770).

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Composting Workshops

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1. What Do You Learn in a Composting Workshop?: Learn how to turn leaves and yard trimmings into rich organic compost for your garden. Topics include: hands-on composting demonstration, making compost tea, proper food waste composting, and vermicomposting (composting with worms). Participants take home a free portable yard waste compost bin.

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Curbside Pickup

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1. Can I return materials?: Yes! We are currently accepting returns of materials via our curbside service model. You just have to bag them, place them in the trunk of your vehicle, and arrive at the library during curbside hours (more information on the process above).

2. Can I return materials if I don't have any reserves to pick up?: Absolutely! Just follow the procedure above on curbside returns.

3. Can I return materials outside of Curbside Service hours?: Unfortunately, we are currently unable to take returns outside of our curbside services hours. We are working on solutions so that we will be able to open the outside drop soon.

4. How long will it take for my items to be ready for pickup after I request them?: Due to COVID-19 related staffing limitations in our temporary location, please allow up to 48 hours processing time for newly placed reserves. Any reserves placed Saturday afternoon will not be processed until Monday the following week. Once your reserves have been processed, you will be notified by email or text (or telephone) that your items are ready for pickup. Thank you for your patience and understanding!

5. How many items can I request for pick up?: You can place reserves (and borrow) up to 20 items at one time per account using curbside pickup. And up to 10 or 20 kids materials if you are using our Quick Pick for kids service (info above).

6. Will my items already be checked out when I pick them up?: Items that you pick up through curbside serve will already be checked out to your account when staff bring them out to you. A checkout receipt listing due dates will be included with your items.

7. When will my items be due?: All dues dates will continue to be extended while the library building is closed to the public due to COVID-19. We will make an announcement via our newsletter and will place that information on our website and social media when we resume normal due dates.

8. Does the library accept donations?: At this time the library is not accepting donations of books, DVDs, or other materials. Read more..

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Employee Assistance Program

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1. What Is the EAP?: What Is the EAP? The EAP is a free program for city employees and their families. The program provides crisis intervention, problem identification and assessment, short term problem resolution, consultation and information, referrals to outside agencies and follow up services. The program also provides support to employees on stress management, chemical dependency, sexual harassment, and diversity.

2. Who is eligible?: The EAP is available for any employee who works a minimum 20 hours per week and maintains permanent status. EAP services are also available to any member of the employee's immediate family.

3. Why use the EAP?: Home life and work environments are intertwined. A person's family life may affect their work productivity and work may influence what happens with relationships at home. The EAP can optimize an employee's ability to balance work and family life.

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Floodplain

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1. What is the National Flood Insurance Program?

The City of Falls Church participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP makes federally backed flood insurance available for all buildings, whether they are in the floodplain or not. Flood insurance covers direct loss caused by surface flooding, including a river flowing over its banks, a lake or ocean storm, and local drainage problems.

The National Flood Insurance Program has an arrangement with private insurance companies to sell and service flood insurance policies. There are 2 types of flood insurance coverage exist:

Contents: Contents coverage may be purchased separately provided the contents are in an insurable building. Your local insurance agent can describe the breadth of coverage and restrictions.
Structural: Structural coverage is for the walls, floors, insulation, furnace, and other items permanently attached to the structure.

2. Do I have to purchase flood insurance?: If your building is located in Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) and federal or federally related financial assistance is associated with the building then you must purchase flood insurance. If you purchased, constructed, repaired, or improved a structure within the SFHA with federal monies derived (in totality or only in part) through federally backed loans or grants then this mandatory purchase flood insurance applies. This requirement also applies to machinery, equipment, fixtures, and furnishings contained in such building.

The requirement also applies to secured mortgage loans from financial institutions, such as commercial lenders, saving and loan associations (e.g., savings banks, and credit unions) that are regulated, supervised, or issued by federal agencies such as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Office of Thrift Supervision, which is to say most mortgage lenders. It also applies to all mortgage loans purchased by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac in the secondary mortgage market.

3. How do I know if my property is in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)?: Before a person can receive a loan or other financial assistance from one of the affected agencies or lenders, an elevation certificate must be obtained to determine if the building is in a SFHA. The SFHA is the base (100-year) floodplain mapped on a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). On a FIRM areas contained within zones that begin with the letter "A" are considered within SFHA. Copies of the FIRM are available for viewing at:
City of Falls Church Department of Public Works
300 Park Ave.
Falls Church, VA 22046

Many lenders and insurance agents also have copies.

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Freedom of Information Act

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1. What is a public record under FOIA?: A public record is any writing or recording, in any format, prepared or owned by, or in the possession of a public body or its officers, employees or agents in the transaction of public business.

For example, public records may be in the form of handwritten notes, typewritten documents, electronic files, audio or video recordings, photographs, or any other written or recorded media.

2. Are draft and preliminary versions also considered public records?: Yes. The definition of public record does not distinguish between draft or preliminary versions and final versions, so both are considered public records under FOIA.

3. Who may make a FOIA request?

Citizens of the commonwealth
Representatives of newspapers and magazines with circulation in the commonwealth
Representatives of radio and television stations broadcasting in or into the commonwealth

4. Must a request mention FOIA specifically?: No. The request need not make reference to FOIA in order to invoke its provisions or to impose the time limits for response by a public body.

5. Must a request be made in writing?: No. A written request is not required. However, from a practical point of view, it is suggested that the request be made in writing (or use any request form provided by the public body). Writing is recourse for both parties!

6. May the city require a requester to fill out a request form?: No. A public body may develop a request form that it asks requesters to fill out, but a public body may not insist that its form be used before it begins work on a FOIA request.

Note: It is suggested that if the requester refuses to fill in the form or to put the request in writing, the public body should fill out its own form - remember, writing is recourse.

7. May the city require a requester to provide name and legal address?: Yes. A public body may require a requester to provide his name and legal address before processing a FOIA request.

Note: This is a tool a public body may use, but FOIA does not mandate that public bodies get identification first.

8. How long does the city have to respond to a request?: A public body must respond within five working days of receipt of the request.

Note: Count the day after receipt as day 1. Please remember that failure to respond to a request for records shall be deemed a denial of the request and constitutes a violation of FOIA.

9. What are the permissible responses to a request?

As of July 1, 2007, a public body must make 1 of the 5 responses allowed by FOIA:

Provide the requested records to the requester
The requested records are being entirely withheld because their release is prohibited by law or the custodian has exercised his discretion to withhold the records in accordance with FOIA
The requested records are being provided in part and are being withheld in part because the release of part of the records is prohibited by law or the custodian has exercised his discretion to withhold a portion of the records in accordance with FOIA
The requested records could not be found or do not exist. However, if the public body that received the request knows that another public body has the requested records, the response shall include contact information for the other public body
It is not practically possible to provide the requested records or to determine whether they are available within the 5 work day period, and the public body needs an additional seven work days in which to provide one of the four preceding responses.

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GIS Mapping

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1. How was the aerial imagery collected?: The City’s most current imagery is from 2009 and was collected as a part of the Virginia Base Mapping Program (VBMP) Orthophotography project (http://www.vita.virginia.gov/isp/default.aspx?id=8412). The Commonwealth of Virginia contracted with the Sanborn Map Company to provide 200 scale, one-foot pixel resolution, and natural color orthophotography to the Virginia Geographic Information Network (VGIN). Updates to imagery are dependent on the state’s acquisition schedule.

2. What is orthophotography?: Orthophotography is aerial photography that is geometrically corrected so that it has a uniform scale. Unlike an uncorrected aerial photograph, an orthophotograph can be used to measure true distances because it is an accurate representation of the Earth’s surface, having been adjusted for topographic relief, lens distortion, and camera tilt.

3. How was the impervious data collected?: Impervious features, including pavement, parking lots, driveways, and buildings were also mapped by Sanborn as part of the VBMP in 2009. The features were hand-digitized from the 2009 one-foot resolution orthophotos, and include structures with roofs and paved/concrete surfaces having an area coverage of 200 square feet or greater.

4. What if my home or building was built or significantly changed after 2009?: The City of Falls Church GIS Analyst consulted all post-2009 grading plans to determine the correct impervious coverage area. The GIS Analyst received the 2013 aerial imagery in April and will verify or correct the existing impervious surface data against the new imagery.

5. Why does the impervious layer not exactly match up with the imagery layer?: The impervious layer does not always match up exactly with the imagery because of the angle that the aerial photography was taken at. The only accurate part of the photograph is the exact center of the image. All other features in the photo are radially distorted outward from the center. The more elevation a feature has, the more distorted it is from the center. In order to adjust the distortion the elevation has to be known throughout the photo. In order to fix this the imagery is geometrically corrected down to its original position. The ground terrain information is then modeled but not the above-ground features such as buildings. Therefore, the base of the building on the ground is adjusted to the proper position but not the top, causing it to remain distorted on the image. The only way this can be resolved is with true orthophotography, in which buildings are modeled in 3-D.

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Proposed Stormwater Ordinance

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1. Why is the city changing the stormwater ordinance?: The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality is requiring every jurisdiction in the state to update existing stormwater development criteria with new, tougher development standards by April 1, 2014, with a go live date of July 1, 2014. As a result of the modifications to existing code being mandatory, the City is also taking this opportunity to streamline all stormwater regulations by placing them under a single section of City Code, Chapter 35, Stormwater.

2. What are the new stormwater development criteria?: The tougher standards outlined herein include the state’s minimum requirements and those proposed by the City of Falls Church. The criteria are being implemented as part of the state-wide effort to restore water quality to the Chesapeake Bay. These values stem from scientific research on stormwater runoff and the pollution it generates in the form of phosphorus.

3. How does impervious cover impact volume of stormwater runoff?: Impervious cover increases the quantity of runoff by keeping stormwater from soaking into the ground naturally. Increased volumes and velocities of runoff then erode stream channels and reduce the health of existing streams. Water runs more rapidly off of an impervious area causing flooding to become both more common and more intense downstream. Meanwhile, with less water soaking into the ground, water tables can drop and streams and wells fed by groundwater can begin to dry up.

4. What happens to the 35% cap on impervious coverage for residential property?: The 35% cap on impervious coverage was a surrogate for water quality controls on phosphorus. The proposed 0.41 standard has an equivalency of 14-16% impervious coverage. This means development exceeding the 0.41 pounds of phosphorus-per-acre-per-year standard must treat stormwater using Best Management Practices (e.g. rain gardens, cisterns, infiltration trenches) before it leaves the site. The 35% cap is no longer needed as a water quality performance standard. However, the city plans to add lot coverage limits in Chapter 48, Zoning under an amendment to the proposed ordinance.

5. What does the new standard mean for single-family homeowners?: In the same manner as the existing ordinance, the new stormwater performance criterion only applies to properties that disturb 2,500 square feet of land. The difference between the two is that the proposed ordinance substantially increases the level of pollutant reduction required. The most common examples of site work that triggers this regulation are large additions to homes and infill development. When the land disturbance threshold of 2,500 square feet is exceeded developers must prepare an engineered plan, which includes stormwater management calculations demonstrating compliance with the regulations.

6. How does this relate to the city’s new Stormwater Utility Fee?: In April 2013 City Council approved the Stormwater Utility Fund, which is an enterprise fund with a dedicated revenue source that can only be used for stormwater expenditures. A fee will be assessed to each property within the city based on units of 200 square feet of impervious cover (e.g. roof, driveway, walkway, and patio).

The effect of the new ordinance will be an increase in the number of Best Management Practices installed in the city and subsequently a reduction of pollutants entering the city’s stormwater conveyance system. The reductions in pollutants count toward the city’s obligations for cleaning up the Chesapeake Bay. The modest reductions from development will help the city by having to spend less capital funds treating stormwater runoff.

7. Will this solve drainage problems in my neighborhood?: The stormwater ordinance only regulates projects under construction. Private development is not required to solve existing drainage problems; however they must demonstrate problems will not being exacerbated. The ordinance does provide additional tools for the city engineer to regulate sheet flow on developments – an area the current ordinance is silent on. Only concentrated flow is currently regulated for potential erosion and flooding.

8. When does this go into effect?: The proposed ordinance grandfathers projects submitted to the city prior to July 1, 2014. This date is preliminary since the ordinance has not been passed. It is possible City Council will adopt an earlier date.

9. Where can I find more information about stormwater?: Visit the City of Falls Church stormwater section to learn more about stormwater runoff, how it impacts water quality in the Chesapeake Bay and water quantity (flooding) in Falls Church, and how to mitigate stormwater runoff on your site and get credit toward the stormwater utility fee.

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Real Estate Assessment Information Database

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1. Is the Assessment Information Database site easy to use?: Yes, this Assessment Information Database site provides a user-friendly interface to many databases that are integrated utilizing the Geographic Information System (GIS). By utilizing the Internet, the Assessment site can be used through familiar web methods.

Please note that this resource is updated periodically and may not reflect today's actual data. Please check back for updates.

2. What is a Geographic Information System?: A Geographic Information System (GIS) is an integrated system of computer hardware, software, and trained personnel linking topographic, demographic, utility, facility, image, and other resource data that is geographically referenced. The system is based on the premise that "a picture is worth a thousand words" and most data can be related to a map or other easily understood graphics.

3. What can this site do for me?: The City of Falls Church Assessment Information Database can provide detailed information on any property in the City. The properties can be located using an address or the property's identification number. Navigating the city map, zooming in on the desired area, and then selecting the property with the pointer can locate a property.

Once a property has been located, it is highlighted and the basic information about the property is displayed using the link provided. The map and or the table can be printed using the web browser's print function.

4. Why does the city put this property information online?: By Virginia law, real estate records are public information. Falls Church City has joined many other localities, including Arlington and Fairfax counties, in making this information accessible on-line. This makes it easy for property owners to validate their records, and compare assessments to comparable properties. It also allows errors to be more easily discovered and brought to the Assessor's attention, which results in improved accuracy and equity in the city's property tax assessments.

5. Can I compare my assessment to other properties?: Yes. By visiting the Real Estate Assessment Information Database, property owners now have the ability to validate their records, and compare assessments to comparable properties.

This site does not allow for a name-based search of assessment records.

6. Whom may I contact for assistance?: For questions about the Real Estate Assessor or the Real Estate Assessment Information Database and its capabilities, please contact the city's Real Estate Assessor via email or at 703-248-5022 (TTY 711).

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Real Estate Assessments

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1. How does the city determine the assessed value of my property?: By state law, the assessed value of a property must reflect its current market value. For single-family homes, the City Assessor uses a sales comparison approach; that is, your property is compared to other similar properties that have recently sold prior to the January 1 date of assessment. The Assessor, for the purpose of valuation, groups properties with similar characteristics into logical "neighborhoods" also known as "study groups".

Sales in each "study group" are compared to the assessed values. After adjusting for differences between properties, these sales are used as a guide to determine the proper assessment for all other properties in the neighborhood. If sales prices in your "study group" increase, the market value of your property may also increase even though your property has not sold or otherwise changed.

For commercial properties, assessments are determined by a combination of methods, including the sales comparison approach described above, a construction cost approach, and most commonly an income approach. The income approach uses an analysis of relationship of rental income to market value sales price.

For all properties, the real estate assessments must reflect 100% of fair market value, as of January 1 per Virginia Code 58.1-3201.

2. How does the city maintain its property records?: Assessment office staff visits properties, reviews building permits, and consults sales data to keep our property records up to date.

3. May I compare my assessment to other properties?: Yes. Visit the Assessment Information Database to compare your assessment to other properties.

By Virginia law, real estate records are public information. The ability to see this information online makes it easy for property owners to validate their records, and compare assessments to comparable properties.

This website does not allow a name-based search of assessment records.

4. What should I do if I believe that my new assessment is incorrect?: First, consider whether your property could be sold for the assessed value. If you believe that you could not sell your property for an amount reasonably equal to the assessment, you may wish to file an appeal.

Second, check to see that the Assessor has your property described correctly by checking the Assessment Information Database. If the physical description is not correct, please call 703-248-5022 (TTY 711) or email the Assessment Office with the correct information. After the information is verified, the record will be changed. The updated information may or may not change the assessed value.

Third, check the assessments of properties located in your immediate area that have physical features similar to your own home. If they are not reasonably comparable, you may wish to file an a class="Hyperlink" target="_self" href="/731/Appeals-Process">appeal.

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Records Management

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1. What is a record?

Public record or record means recorded information that documents a transaction or activity by or with any public officer, agency or employee of an agency. Regardless of physical form or characteristic, the recorded information is a public record if it is produced, collected, received or retained in pursuance of law or in connection with the transaction of public business. The medium upon which such information is recorded has no bearing on the determination of whether the recording is a public record. (Code of Virginia,Title 42.1 Chapter 7, Virginia Public Records Act)
Records Destruction Procedure:

Identify what is to be destroyed and how by using retention schedule
Fill out Certificate of Destruction (RM-3 Form)
Obtain approving official and records officer signatures from Kathy Buschow, City Clerk
When records have been destroyed, obtain signature of the individual who destroyed the records or witnessed the destruction.
Send form with all original signatures to the Library of Virginia

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Recreation Classes & Camps

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1. Can you tell me more about the online registration program?

The city's online registration program is called WebTrac.

WebTrac allows you to:

Be added to the wait list if an activity is full
Browse activity listings
Enroll for most activities
Look up details about any activity (price, dates, times, location, availability)
Print a Child Care Statement for tax purposes or flexible spending plans
Print a family calendar of activities (family member, time, activity name)
Print an account transaction history
Reprint old receipts
Search for activities by type, age range, location, and other criteria

WebTrac will not allow you to:

Cancel an activity
Register children who do not meet the specific requirements for a class. For example, minimum age requirements, regardless if you have permission from the instructor
Register individuals from other households
Transfer to another activity

If you have registered for activities prior to the implementation of WebTrac, then you will not need to set up a new household. We can provide you with your User ID and beginning Password. However, if a family member is not listed in your current household, they will not appear in the WebTrac household and you will have to contact us to add them.

If you are registering for the first time, be sure to include all family members even if they do not currently plan to enroll in activities. This will save you time if they decide to enroll in the future.

2. I'm having trouble registering online, who do I contact for help?: If you are having trouble registering online, contact the Recreation and Parks Division Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call 703-248-5077 (TTY 711) during the Community Center's operating hours of:
Monday - Thursday
8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday
8 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday
8:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday
Noon-6 p.m. (January-March)
2-6 p.m. (April-December)

3. Once I've requested an account, how long will it take for my account to become active?: Account approvals will be processed during the Community Center's operating hours, and may take up to 3 days to process. Your account is active once you receive an email containing information you need to log into WebTrac.

Community Center hours are:
Monday - Thursday
8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday
8 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday
8:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday
Noon-6 p.m. (January-March)
2-6 p.m. (April-December)

4. What should I do if I've forgotten or misplaced my username / password?: Click on the "Having Trouble Signing In" link in WebTrac. You will need to answer the 2 security questions. If your answers match our records, the information will be emailed to you.

You may also email the Recreation Division, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call 703-248-5077 (TTY 711) during the Community Center's operating hours. The Community Center's operating hours of:
Monday - Thursday
8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday
8 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday
8:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday
Noon-6 p.m. (January-March)
2-6 p.m. (April-December)

5. How do I add a family member after I've created a household account?: To add a family member email the Recreation Division, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call 703-248-5077 (TTY 711) during the Community Center's operating hours. The Community Center's operating hours of:
Monday - Thursday
8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday
8 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday
8:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday
Noon-6 p.m. (January-March)
2-6 p.m. (April-December)

6. Can I register for a class that has already started?: You may enroll for most activities if there is a space available. If there is not a space available, you may go on the wait list. If a space becomes available, we will contact you.

7. On the payment screen it says I owe more than what I registered for. How did that happen?: If you have a previous balance due to the Falls Church Recreation and Parks Division, you will have to pay the entire balance in order to complete the transaction. If you have any questions about the charges, contact the office Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 703-248-5077 (TTY 711).

8. I tried to register online and it told me I had to contact the Recreation and Parks Division. Why did I get that message?: There could be a problem with your account, such as you owe the division for previous activities or facility reservations. Contact the division at 703-248-5077 (TTY 711).

9. Will the online transaction be secure?: Program fees will be processed with the highest level of security by WebVital. If you have any pop-up blockers installed, you will need to disable them, or make the City of Falls Church Online Registration, a trusted site.

If you do not, you will not be able to receive receipts or view all the pages properly. The City of Falls Church has taken all of the necessary precautions to ensure that this is a secure site, similar to any other e-commerce site on the Internet.

10. Why does the billing address have to match the address on my online account?: We use the Address Verification System (AVS), this system verifies information for credit card processing security reasons.

11. Can I pay using a credit card that is not the same as the name of the online account holder?: No, the name on the credit card must match the name of the online account holder.

12. Who will use my personal information?: Your information is only used to complete the transaction you requested and to analyze trends. The city does not share this information with outside parties except to the extent necessary to complete your order (for example, our class contractors). The city does not sell information about current or former participants to any 3rd parties, and it does not disclose it to third parties, unless necessary to process a transaction you have requested.

13. How do I request a copy of the class and camp brochures?: To request a copy of the class and camp brochures, email the Recreation Division, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call 703-248-5077 (TTY 711) during the Community Center's operating hours. The Community Center's operating hours of:
Monday - Thursday
8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday
8 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday
8:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday
Noon-6 p.m. (January-March)
2-6 p.m. (April-December)

14. I'm working on my taxes or flexible spending plan reimbursement. How can I get a Child Care Statement (list of activities and cost for activities my child participated in)?: A Child Care Statement is available in WebTrac.You may also email the Recreation Division, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call 703-248-5077 (TTY 711) during the Community Center's operating hours. The Community Center's operating hours of:
Monday - Thursday
8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday
8 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday
8:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday
Noon-6 p.m. (January-March)
2-6 p.m. (April-December)

15. What is the city's Federal Tax ID number?: The city's Federal Tax ID number is 54-6001271.

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Resource Protection Areas

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1. What is a perennial stream?: A perennial stream is a body of water that flows year-round during a year of normal precipitation. Generally, groundwater is the primary source for stream flow.

2. If my home is within an RPA, can I still make an addition?: Under certain circumstances, the answer is yes. For lots that existed before March 2002, minor additions can be made to the principal structure as long as it is attached to the structure. Examples are attached sunrooms, decks, patios, garages, carports, and minor room additions. In all cases, the City must first approve the addition.

3. Are decks allowed within the RPA?: Yes, but only if it is attached to the principal structure and approved by the City. Otherwise, the deck must be approved through the exceptions process.

4. Are new sheds allowed within the RPA?: Sheds are considered to be accessory structures and may not be built without an exception to the ordinance. An existing shed may continue to be maintained, but may not be expanded or rebuilt without approval from the City.

5. Can I remove vegetation within an RPA?: In accordance with state regulations, existing vegetation may be removed only if approved by the City and only to provide for reasonable sight lines, access paths, removal of invasive plant species, general woodlot management, and best management practices to prevent erosion. The City determines what is reasonable through guidance provided by the Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Board.

6. What if I want to redevelop my property?: You may redevelop your property as long as there is no additional encroachment into the RPA and no increase in pollution. The Stormwater Ordinance, Chapter 35, contains specific provisions to handle cases where applying the RPA would mean the loss of buildable area. For lots that existed before March 2002, the ordinance allows an encroachment into the first 50 feet of the RPA only if it is found that there is no reasonable alternative and measures are taken to mitigate the impacts on water quality. Any encroachment greater than 50 feet must go through an exceptions process.

7. What is the exception process?: City Code allows for exceptions to the RPA requirements on a case-by-case basis. There is a strict set of criteria in Chapter 35-11(F)(3) that must be met in order to qualify for an exception. Contact the Department of Public Works at 703-248-5350 (TTY711) for more details.

8. Are there penalties for violating RPA restrictions?: Noncompliance with the ordinance may result in civil and criminal penalties. Violators will also be required to restore RPAs in accordance with City guidelines.

9. Where can I find additional information?: You can contact the Stormwater Engineer with the Department of Public Works at 703-248-5350 (TTY711) or visit the City's website at www.fallschurchva.gov/Stormwater.

10. What is a Resource Protection Area (RPA)?: An RPA is a sensitive environmental corridor that, by state law, must be preserved or restored to a natural condition when disturbed. The purpose of the RPA is to provide a buffer between development and water resources like streams. A natural buffer has been proven to provide a benefit to water quality, which is why the state mandates that all streams with perennial flow to be protected by a 100-foot buffer that is measured from the top of a stream bank.

11. How do I know if my property is within the RPA?: The Department of Public Works maintains a map showing the approximate location of RPAs in the City. This can be found online here: http://property.fallschurchva.gov/ParcelViewer/. Search for the address and then choose "Resource Protection Area" in the map layers column.
It is important to note that before an land disturbance can occur on a property the RPA must be definitively located by a licensed surveyor or professional engineer.

12. What an I allowed to do within the RPA?: Except under very specific circumstances, new development (new construction, expansion) in the RPA is limited to those that are considered "water dependent uses." All land disturbing activities proposed within the RPA must first be approved by the City. A property owner would need to submit a Water Quality Impact Assessment explaining the impacts of the activity and what actions will be taken to reduce these impacts.

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Sharrows

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1. I've seen street markings of a bike with two chevrons/arrows. What do they mean?: These are "shared-lane markings" or “sharrows.” Shared-lane markings are intended to remind drivers that they should expect to share the lane with cyclists, and to remind cyclists that they can ride in mixed traffic where there is no bicycle lane. They also show where cyclists can ride on the street without being hit by a suddenly-opened car door. Although it is the responsibility of the motorist to check before opening their door, riding too close to parked cars (in the "door zone") is still a common mistake bicyclists make that can lead to serious injury.

2. Do these markings really have an effect on driver and cyclist behavior?: Yes. Research shows that shared-lane markings significantly increase the passing space between motor vehicles and cyclists and reduce improper bicycling behavior.

3. On some streets, cyclists riding over this marking will take the entire lane. Aren't they supposed to move to the right?: Not always. According to Virginia law, cyclists are to stay to the right except to pass another vehicle traveling in the same direction, to prepare to make a left turn, to avoid riding in a lane that turns or diverges to the right, to avoid unsafe conditions, or when the lane width is too narrow for a bicycle and a motor vehicle to travel side-by-side.

4. If I see these markings in a lane, is the lane only for bikes?: No. These markings can be used in any lane that is used by bicyclists and motorists. Bicycle lanes, which are set aside for bicyclists, are marked by a solid white line and a different symbol.

5. So, if I don't see these markings, then it's not a shared lane and bicyclists aren't supposed to be there?: No, cyclists can ride on any street in the City of Falls Church. Just as every street in the city has a 25 mph speed limit unless stated otherwise (even if there is no speed limit sign), cyclists are allowed on every street regardless of whether there is a marking or sign for them, unless stated otherwise. Shared-lane markings are intended to reinforce that cyclists are allowed to use the traffic lanes, not to define a special condition.

6. Are these markings going to be on every street that does not have a bike lane?: No, these markings will be used primarily on streets designated as part of the city's bicycle route network. They may also be used where there is a significant number of cyclists or to note a connection between common cycling routes.

7. I've never seen these markings before. Why are they being used now?: These markings were approved by the Federal Highway Administration for use nationwide. Now that they are included in the national set of standard pavement markings, you can expect to see shared-lane markings more frequently in the City of Falls Church as well as in nearby jurisdictions like Arlington, Alexandria, and the District of Columbia.

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Sheds

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1. I want to build a shed on my property. Do I need a permit?: If the shed will be more than 200 square feet, yes you will need to obtain a Building Permit and call 703-248-5080 (TTY 711) for required inspections.

If the shed 200 square feet or less, no, but you are still required to apply for a review. City staff will need to check various aspects of your plan; you will receive documentation that this review has been completed and that the shed complies with City Code.

If the shed is less than 200 square feet, but construction will involve electrical or plumbing, yes, you will need a Building Permit along with electrical and/or plumbing permit(s).

2. Who will review my application?

Your application will be reviewed by the following:

The Zoning Administrator will review for setbacks and height compliance.
The Building Official will check on the size of the structure, and whether the foundation and building materials conform to Code requirements.
The Engineering Division will determine if any proposed construction is planned for a Resource Protection Area (RPA) or in Floodplain. If so, additional requirements apply.

3. How long does it take to obtain either a permit or a completed review?: It will take, generally, 2-3 weeks to obtain a permit or a completed review.

4. What do I need to do?

Steps include:

Locate a plat of your property, and submit a copy which includes a drawing of the
proposed shed in the desired location. Mark the dimensions and the distances from nearby property lines, as well as from the house.
For sheds larger than 200 square, prepare required building plans and drawings.
Complete an application for a Building Permit Application (or have your contractor do so, if applicable).
Complete applications for Electrical or Plumbing permits, if applicable.
Submit the application(s) and plat in City Hall: West Wing, 3rd floor, Suite 300.
No fees are required upfront. If it is determined that you need a permit or permits, you will be notified and payment will be accepted when you pick up your paperwork

5. I don’t have a survey of my property, what should I do?: If you do not have a survey of your property, check with Zoning Division staff - a scanned copy of your plat may be on file. If not, the Zoning Administrator may be able to waive the requirement: in some cases, you will need to research your deed or obtain a survey.

6. What if I just want to replace my shed in the same location?: If you just want to replace your shed in the same location, it is treated like building a brand new one.

7. What are some setbacks and location details I should be aware of?

You should note:

Maximum height: 12 feet to the midpoint of the ridge. (Historic accessory structures are in another category: please contact the Planning Division for additional information).
Setbacks from the property line: 5 feet
Minimum distance from the house: 10 feet from house

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Stormwater - Gravel Driveways

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1. Why are gravel driveways considered impervious?: Gravel driveways are considered impervious because they prevent infiltration, which results in stormwater flowing off these surfaces at a higher rate than pervious surfaces. This is typically due to compaction of the underlying soil and stones by vehicles.

2. Who else classifies gravel as impervious?: The City is following a nationally accepted standard by classifying gravel as impervious. In Virginia, the Department of Environment Quality publishes the "Virginia Stormwater Management Handbook," which defines impervious as, "a surface composed of any material that significantly impedes or prevents natural infiltration of water into soil. Impervious surfaces include, but are not limited to, roofs, buildings, streets, parking areas, and any concrete, asphalt, or compacted gravel surface."

3. I poured water on my driveway and it disappeared. Is it really impervious?: Not all gravel driveways are created and maintained equally. While some driveways may hold water to some degree there are others that are poorly drained and have a high amount of runoff. Over time gravel driveways collect debris/dirt and compact into an impervious layer, which is what makes them effective, hard surfaces for vehicles.

4. Can I get credit for my gravel driveway?: There is currently no credit available for gravel driveways. Since there are varying levels of permeability in the upper stone layer of gravel driveways it would be difficult for the City to categorize them differently without testing each one, which would require additional staffing resources.

5. Are there permeable driveway surfaces?: There are several widely accepted permeable surfaces available for use as a driveway and which would qualify for a stormwater credit. The most common permeable pavers, grass pavers, porous concrete, and porous asphalt. For more information or examples of these please visit the City's website at www.fallschurchva.gov/Stormwater or contact the Department of Public Works at (703) 248-5026 (TTY 711).

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Stormwater Credit Policy

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1. What is a credit?: A credit is a reduction in impervious area due to implementation of a stormwater management facility. A credited area is subtracted from a property’s total impervious area prior to calculating the fee for the stormwater utility.

For example, if a 600 square feet permeable pavement driveway earns a 40% credit the calculation is as follows:
(Driveway area) x (% Credit) = Total Credit
(600 square feet) x (0.40) = 240 square feet

Stormwater management facilities are given credits because, when operated and maintained properly, they reduce the quantity and improve the quality of stormwater runoff.

2. How much credit can I receive?: There are multiple practices available to receive a credit toward the utility fee. Please see the City of Falls Church Stormwater Utility Fee Credits Manual for more information and how you can apply for credits.

The maximum credit a site can achieve is 95%. The amount of credit given depends on several factors - the type of facility, area treated and/or captured, and if a facility was built voluntarily or as a requirement of development. The impervious area treated by the facility is the only area that is eligible for the discount, not the entire impervious surface of the property.

3. Can credits be combined?: Yes, credits outlined in the City of Falls Church Stormwater Utility Fee Credits Manual are cumulative if a facility or combination of facilities provides treatment to stormwater from the same area of impervious cover.

The maximum amount of credit that can be achieved for stormwater generated onsite is 70% (e.g. 30% for water quality, 30% for water quantity, and 10% for Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs)).

4. What if I treat offsite water?: A property owner may, in accordance with the requirements of the credit policy, apply credits for structural stormwater management facilities that control stormwater from impervious areas within the public right-of-way (e.g. city streets) to achieve effective credit of greater than 70%.

5. By combining enough credits can I get a $0 fee?: No, in all cases the maximum credit that can be achieved for any one property is 95%.

6. How often do I have to renew?: Applications must be renewed on a yearly basis using the Credit Renewal Form.

7. What happens if my application is denied?: You must make the recommended changes and reapply to the Department of Public Works. Speak to 1 of our engineers to discuss applicable practices. This is recommended prior to installation of any stormwater management facilities.

8. Can credits be prorated?: No, credits cannot be prorated. Special exceptions may be made by the Director of Public Works for the 1st year of credit implementation.

9. Why do stormwater management facilities installed as a condition of development receive a credit?: The Code of Virginia (§15.2-2114) requires a locality that has adopted a stormwater utility to provide for full or partial waivers of charges to “...any person who installs, operates, and maintains a stormwater management facility that achieves a permanent reduction in stormwater flow or pollutant loadings.”

The code also allows a locality to provide for full or partial waivers of charges to “...public or private entities that implement or participate in strategies, techniques, or programs that reduce stormwater flow or pollutant loadings, or decrease the cost of maintaining or operating the public stormwater management system.”

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Stormwater Fund

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1. What is the Stormwater Enterprise Fund?: A new stormwater utility fee and stormwater enterprise fund was included as part of the adopted Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Plan in order to provide a stable, dedicated funding for the city’s stormwater management program. The revenue generated by the utility fee cannot be used for purposes beyond those identified for the stormwater management program - both operating and capital project budget. Creating an enterprise fund for stormwater eliminates annual competition for funds within the budget and aids long-range planning for funding of major stormwater improvements.

2. How much is a stormwater utility fee going to cost me?

The utility fee is based on the amount of impervious surface (e.g. roof, driveway, walkway, and patio) your site has. For each 200 square feet of impervious surface the cost is $18.72.

The average impervious surface for a residential property in the city is 2,755 square feet; therefore the average cost is approximately $262 annually.

3. What is the effective date of the stormwater utility fee? When will the first bill go out?: The stormwater utility fee went into effect July 1, 2013. Yet, the first bill will not be mailed until June 2014 as a part of the real estate tax bill. The city was able to delay the first bill by providing $900,000 of seed money from the General Fund.

4. What is the annual cost of the city’s Stormwater Management Program?: The stormwater utility fee is expected to yield $1.643 million annually.

5. How is the stormwater management program currently funded and what is its annual budget?: The Stormwater Management Program has been funded by the General Fund. The fiscal year 2013 stormwater operating budget is $471,285, while the capital budget included $1,200,000.

6. What will the Stormwater Enterprise Fund pay for?

Revenue collected by the utility fee will only fund the city’s Stormwater Management Program, both operating and capital budgets. This includes:

City staff (e.g. engineers, inspectors, maintenance crew, and supervisor)
- Clean and repair 27 miles of stormwater pipes, 1.5 miles of open stream, 70 miles of curb and gutter, 1400 inlets and manholes
- Design and oversee the construction of capital projects
- Manage the city’s stormwater permit, Erosion and Sediment Control Program, and Floodplain Program
Construction materials for repairs and new infrastructure
Construction equipment, vehicles, and associated fuel and maintenance costs
Contracted services - specialized cleaning and inspection, street sweeping, deep excavation, engineering consultant, surveying, utility location, geotechnical
Office supplies and equipment
State stormwater permit fees

7. Who has to pay the fee?: Every parcel that is located in the City of Falls Church that has a minimum of 200 square feet of impervious surface will be required to pay the fee. Properties that are not subject to property taxes will also pay the stormwater utility fee because it is a fee for service.

8. Do other Virginia jurisdictions have a Stormwater Enterprise Fund?: Arlington County and Fairfax County utilizes a service district to fund portions of their stormwater program. Prince William County and the cities of Richmond, Hampton, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Suffolk, and Newport have established stormwater utility fees to fund all or portions of their stormwater management programs.

9. What is the Watershed Management Plan?: In February 2012 City Council adopted the Watershed Management Plan, which is a planning document that establishes a roadmap for the city to restore and maintain a healthy, sustainable aquatic ecosystem in the Tripp's Run and Four Mile Run watersheds while providing adequate flood control and the safe management of stormwater runoff. The plan offers the most complete and detailed information concerning the city's stormwater needs.

10. What is the condition of the city’s stormwater system?: Much of the city's stormwater system was installed by developers as the city grew during the 1930s through the 1960s, which was prior to any flood and stormwater regulations. As Falls Church increased in density, the stormwater infrastructure became overwhelmed with additional runoff from impervious surfaces.

Furthermore, many of these stormwater pipes are beyond their expected life span and in some locations have failed or are near failing. As we see with some regularity, flooding occurs in areas due to undersized or broken stormwater pipes.

City staff estimates roughly $20 million will be needed in the next 10 years to solve drainage problems and replace aging stormwater infrastructure.

11. What is going on with the Chesapeake Bay and how does that impact the city?: Falls Church, like every jurisdiction in Virginia, is now facing a new state / federal mandate aimed at restoring the Chesapeake Bay called the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). A TMDL is also commonly referred to as a pollution diet. In this case, the Chesapeake Bay TMDL sets a limit on the amount of phosphorus, nitrogen, and sediment (measured in pounds) that enters our streams on an annual basis.

In 2012, the city was given numerical targets it must achieve by 2025 with specific milestones along the way. In order to comply with the Chesapeake Bay TMDL the city will need to build new water quality facilities, such as rain gardens, infiltration trenches, and underground storage with filters.

Redevelopment of private property will assist in reaching our goals, however, city staff estimates those efforts will constitute no more than 5% of the pollution that must be removed. The remaining 95% will need to be removed by the city on public property.

The Department of Public Works will look for ways to save in construction costs by combining stormwater capacity projects with quality facilities where feasible. City staff estimates compliance with the Chesapeake Bay TMDL will require $15 million in expenditures by 2025 for stormwater quality specific construction projects.

12. Isn't stormwater already cleaned at the sewage treatment plant?: The stormwater runoff that comes from parking lots, streets, roofs, and yards flows directly into storm pipes and streams and ultimately to the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay. In Falls Church the stormwater system is separate from the sanitary sewer system. Wastewater, or sewage, is collected and transmitted through this separate pipe system and is delivered to one of the regional sewage treatment plants for treatment.

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Stormwater Fund Payments

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1. When is the Stormwater Utility Fee due?: The Stormwater Utility Fee is paid in two installments at the same time as Real Estate taxes, due on June 5 and December 5 each year.

2. Is there a penalty for late payment?: Yes. A 10% late payment penalty plus interest will be applied to any Stormwater Fee not paid by the due date – the same as Real Estate taxes.

3. If I escrow my taxes, will my mortgage company pay the Stormwater Utility Fee too?: Yes. Stormwater Utility Fees are treated the same way as Real Estate taxes by your mortgage company. If you escrow your taxes, the Stormwater Utility Fee will be paid from escrow, the same as your taxes. Please contact your mortgage company for information on how this new fee will affect your escrow account.

4. Is there any way to reduce my Stormwater Fee?: Yes. For information on how to obtain credits, please visit the Stormwater Utility Fund webpage or call 703-248-5466.

5. Where can I find more information?: For the Stormwater Utility Fee visit the Stormwater Utility Fund webpage or call 703-248-5466. For bills and payments, visit the Treasurer's webpage or call 703-248-5046.

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Stormwater Impervious Coverage

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1. What is impervious cover?

Impervious cover refers to any man made surfaces, like asphalt, concrete, and rooftops, that water cannot penetrate. With these surfaces rain and snow that would otherwise soak into the ground turns into stormwater runoff when it comes into contact with impervious surfaces.

The Falls Church stormwater utility fee further defines impervious cover as:

Asphalt driveways / walkways
Compacted soil with no vegetation
Compacted stone driveways
Concrete driveways / walkways / stairs / patios
Decks over concrete slabs (decks over uncompacted stone are considered pervious)
Garages
Pools and concrete pool decks
Porous pavers (paver systems are open to a credit discount)
Rooftops of homes
Sheds / storage containers

2. How does impervious cover impact volume of stormwater runoff?: Impervious cover increases the quantity of runoff by keeping stormwater from soaking into the ground naturally. Increased volumes and velocities of runoff then erode stream channels and reduce the health of existing streams. Because water runs more rapidly off of an impervious area, flooding becomes both more common and more intense downstream. Meanwhile, because less water is soaking into the ground, water tables can drop and streams and wells fed by groundwater can begin to dry up.

3. Why is stormwater runoff polluted?: When rain hits the ground it does so with enough energy to dislodge tiny particles from barren soil and impervious surfaces. The stormwater runoff then carries pollutants found on the ground, such as sediments, nutrients, pathogens, pesticides, hydrocarbons, and metals into our catch basins, streams, and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay. Polluted stormwater runoff is widely recognized by scientists as the greatest threat to water quality.

4. What can I do to reduce my impact on stormwater runoff?: The simplest way to reduce stormwater runoff is to eliminate unneeded impervious cover, like concrete slabs from an old shed or unused brick walkways. Another easy way to change the amount of runoff from a home is to redirect downspouts away from driveways and to pervious areas. This gives runoff an opportunity to naturally infiltrate into the ground instead of draining into the storm sewer system.

5. Where can I find more information about stormwater?: Visit the City of Falls Church stormwater fund section to learn more about stormwater runoff, how it impacts water quality in the Chesapeake Bay and water quantity (flooding) in Falls Church, and how to mitigate stormwater runoff on your site and get credit toward the stormwater utility fee.

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Treasurer

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1. What system is the city Treasurer using to offer this service?: The City Treasurer has partnered with Invoice Cloud, a web-based, electronic invoicing and payment processing company to provide faster, more convenient billing services to customers. By automating billing and collections, customers can click and pay online while helping the environment and reducing clutter in their home or workspace. Customers may also have bills automatically emailed by opting out of paper billing entirely.

2. Is my information safe?: Yes! This online service uses the strongest security tools available. All the data collected is double encrypted and stored on secure servers. The data is not sold or released for any purpose other than to complete city payment transactions.

3. How do I pay online?: To pay your bill online, you will need the bill number and your property account number (PPID# for Personal Property and RPC# for Real Estate) which will be printed on the bill you receive in the mail. You may then visit our online bill pay service and pay your bill online.

4. What forms of payment can I use?: You can pay by credit or debit card or you may issue an electronic check from your bank account (checking or savings). Please check the treasurer's page on the City's website for the credit and debit cards that are eligible.

5. Can I still send in a paper check?

Yes, your bill can be paid in any of the following ways:

Online: Please log onto our online bill pay site
In-Person: - check or credit card
U.S. Postal Service: mail payment in envelope provided with the bill

6. What are the costs for paying online?: There are no signup costs or subscription fees. As of April 2012, the convenience fee for using an e-check from your checking or savings account has been waived. There is no fee for paying by e-check!
The convenience fee when using credit cards is a percentage-based or flat rate fee that varies depending on the card type and the bill you are paying. The convenience fee is automatically calculated based upon the type of credit card used and the dollar amount of the bill being paid and is shown on the payment page before you submit your payment for processing.

7. May I use my debit card?: Yes, your debit card will be processed like a credit card and you will not be asked to enter a pin number. The convenience fee is the same as the one for credit cards. The exact convenience fee amount will be displayed during the payment process prior to submitting the payment.

8. Can I tell if my payment has been posted?: Yes, simply log in to your account and select "View paid or closed invoices".

9. Will I have online access to my account?: Yes, you will have 24/7 access to your account for invoice review and payment, payment history and customer service requests.

10. Will I be able to print a copy of my bill?: Yes, each invoice is presented in PDF and HTML format. However, electronic storage is recommended because it saves paper and has a beneficial impact on our environment.

11. How do I change my account information?: Simply log into your account and change any of your personal information under "my profile". You must be registered with the service in order to do this.

12. What is Auto-Pay?: If you elect to opt in to Auto-Pay, it means that your bills will be paid automatically on their due date or date you choose using your default credit card or bank account. This will avoid any late fees and free you from having to remember when to pay.

13. Can I cancel Auto-Pay?: Yes, simply go into your profile and uncheck the auto-pay box that you had previously checked when you elected to opt into Auto-Pay.

14. What are scheduled payments?: Scheduled payments are set up individually for each bill due on a specific date by you.

15. Can I schedule payments?: Yes. You can set up a future payment at any time prior to the bill due date.

16. Why am I being charged a late fee?: If you feel a fee has been assessed in error or you would like more information about late fee charges, please contact the Treasurer's Office by calling 703-248-5046.

17. What is the difference between auto-pay and a scheduled payment?: Auto-pay is an automated process, which pays your balance in full each billing cycle 2 days prior to the due date. Scheduled payments are manually entered by you for the date you choose each time you make a payment.

18. What if I already have auto-pay or a scheduled payment set up with my bank?: You will need to contact your bank and cancel your automated or scheduled payment before the payment is due (typically payments are made a couple days in advance of the due date, so don't wait until the last minute).

19. Who do I contact with questions about a bill?: If you are unable to find the information you need in your online payment history or open invoices, please call the Treasurer's Office at 703-248-5046.

20. What if this website is down or for some reason I am unable to use this site?: Please be aware that interest and late payment fees will not be waived if this website is inoperable for any reason or if data entry errors occur. If the website is inoperable, payments can be made by mail, by phone or at the Treasurer's office, City Hall at the following location:
300 Park Ave.
Falls Church, VA 22046
However, the due date remains the same. It is up to you as the taxpayer to make sure your tax bill is paid on time. So be wise. Don't wait til the last minute!

21. If I have additional questions who should I call?: The Falls Church City Treasurer's office at 703-248-5046 can answer most questions, but if you are having trouble accessing the system, please call Invoice cloud's customer service at 877-Cloud 30 (877-256-8330) Ext. 2700.

22. Is my information secure?: Invoice Cloud uses the highest standards in internet security. Account information displayed within the customer and biller portals is truncated to protect confidential data. Any information retained is not shared with third parties.

23. Is my credit card and checking account information safe when I pay online?: Absolutely. Invoice Cloud will safely store all of your financial information using Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliant systems. This includes truncating (abbreviating) account numbers so that even the Treasurer's Office cannot see your complete account information.

24. What is PCI Compliance and why is it so important?: PCI stands for Payment Card Industry and compliance with the industry standards is a requirement for those that accept the major credit cards and for software providers who have application which involve the transmission and / or storage of credit card information. If breaches are found on systems that are not PCI compliant, the major credit card companies have the ability to levy significant fines on the offending parties.

25. Who has access to my account?: You and the city Treasurer's office authorized staff. No one will have access to your financial information as all check routing numbers and cc numbers are truncated, so you never have to worry about security. As an added security precaution, we don't even show your full financial information back to you.

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Vehicle & Personal Property Tax Relief Act (PPTRA)

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1. How long do I have to register a vehicle with the City of Falls Church?: Vehicles entering the City of Falls Church have 60 days to register with the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue and display a decal or they may receive citations from enforcement.

Registration can be performed by completing and submitting a Motor Vehicle Registration Form with a copy of the vehicle registration card. Or by registering online.

2. What are the procedures if I move my vehicle out of the City of Falls Church into another Virginia jurisdiction or state?: Vehicles leaving the City of Falls Church or the Commonwealth of Virginia should immediately register with the new locality or state, preferably within 30 days of move-in. If the vehicle(s) is re-locating to another Virginia jurisdiction the owner should provide the City of Falls Church with proof of the new locality registration, such as decal receipt or tax bill.

If the vehicle(s) is re-locating to another state the owner should immediately surrender their Virginia license plates to the local Department of Motor Vehicles and provide the City of Falls Church with a copy of the new registration.

3. How is the Personal Property Tax Relief Act (PPTRA) applied to my vehicle?

Falls Church City Continues to Implement the General Assembly’s Changes to the Personal Property (Car) Tax Relief Act (PPTRA). The General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Virginia has capped Tax Relief (PPTRA) at $2.02 million for the City of Falls Church. For 2017, the value of the state subsidy to individual taxpayers in the City of Falls Church is 44.05% of the qualifying tax levy. This is the effective amount the State is paying the City on your behalf. You are required to pay the difference directly to the City of Falls Church.

The PPTRA applies 44.05% relief only to the 1st $20,000 of a vehicle's assessed value and the remaining 55.95% of assessed value is the responsibility of the taxpayer. For example, Mr. Smith purchased a vehicle worth $15,000 in assessed value, at a taxing rate of 5%. The total tax on the vehicle for the year would be $750. PPTRA would cover $330.38 and the remaining $419.63is the taxpayer's responsibility.

PPTRA only applies to personal use vehicles; business use vehicles, motor homes, trailers and vehicles over 7501 lbs. do not receive tax relief. There is NO tax on vehicles with an assessed value of $1,500 or less. All qualified vehicles with an assessed value between $1,501 and $20,000 will receive tax relief of 44.05%%. Any assessed portion over the first $20,000 of a vehicle’s value will be taxed at 100%. The 2017 personal property tax rate is $5.00 per $100 of assessed value.

4. Does my vehicle qualify for PPTRA if it is for personal and business use?: If a vehicle is used for more than 50% of the time as a business vehicle and is reported to the federal government as an expense, it does not qualify for the Personal Property Tax Relief Act. If a vehicle is used in business for 50% or less and is not reported as an expense to the federal government, the use of the vehicle is still considered personal and qualifies for the relief.

5. Do all personal vehicles qualify for Personal Property Tax Relief Act (PPTRA)?: Yes, all personal vehicles qualify for PPTRA with the exception of recreational vehicles (boats, boat trailers, RVs).

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Zoning

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1. How can I find out what Zoning District a Falls Church property is in?: Contact the Zoning Division at 703-248-5080 (TTY 711) and provide the address, or visit the Real Property Information site and type in the address.

2. What uses are allowed in each Zoning District?: Chapter 48, beginning with section 235 of the City Code specify the uses permitted in each Zoning District. These uses may be "by right", or may require a Special Use Permit granted by the Board of Zoning Appeals.

3. What is a substandard lot? What is a split lot?: A substandard lot is a residential lot which does not meet the lot size requirements for the district in which it is located as set forth in the City Code.

Split lots are 2 or more substandard lots that have been collected under 1 address or parcel identification and are subsequently parted out separately and each used for a single family house.

4. What are the lot standards for single family homes?: There are 2 zones for single family dwellings in the city. In the R-1A zone, a single family lot must be at least 11,250 square feet with a minimum width of 75 feet. In the R-1B zone, a single family lot must be at least 7,500 square feet with a minimum width of 60 feet. Individual lots that do not meet these dimensional standards are considered to be "substandard lots."

5. Why do substandard lots exist in the city?: Substandard lots in the city were created by recordation of a deed or subdivision prior to February 14, 1944, when the city's first Zoning Ordinance was adopted. In many cases in the 1930s and 1940s, an individual would purchase 2 adjacent lots and then construct a single house straddling the 2 adjacent lots. Subsequent amendments to the zoning ordinance rendered these individual lots substandard.

In recent years, the increased demand for housing has resulted in numerous older homes, which were built on more than 1 substandard lot, to be torn down and 2 homes built on the remaining smaller substandard lots. The smaller, substandard lots developed in the R-1A and R-1B zones exceed the density levels of 4 and 6 units per acre specified in the city's Comprehensive Plan. This has resulted in some single family neighborhoods being developed with a greater density than called for in the Comprehensive Plan.

The city's Zoning Ordinance should implement and preserve the residential densities as outlined in the city's Comprehensive Plan, and also shown on the Future Land Use Map. The proposed change to the Zoning Ordinance with regard to the development of substandard lots will close a loophole that conflicts with the intent and densities of the Comprehensive Plan and, therefore, is appropriate for consideration.

6. How many substandard lots will be affected by the proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment?: GIS analysis by city staff shows approximately 483 substandard lots are intersected by 234 houses in the R-1A and R-1B zones.

7. Why is an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance needed right now?: In recent years there has been a community concern about the redevelopment of substandard lots. Of particular concern has been the demolition of one older home straddling 2 substandard lots; the sale and recordation of those individual lots into different ownership; and the redevelopment of the property into 2 new narrower homes on the underlying lots.

8. What is the timeline of how the proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment was developed?: Visit the agenda center for a timeline of the major meetings, memos, and proposals used in the development of the amendment.

9. What is the timeline and procedure for getting the Zoning Ordinance amendment approved?

The proposed timeline is as follows (dates are subject to change):

June 10, 2013 - First Reading by City Council (see documents and video in previous section)
July 15, 2013 - Planning Commission Public Hearing; public notice will be posted in the Falls Church News-Press and letters will be mailed to property owners identified by the City as being potentially impacted by this zoning text change
July 22, 2013 - Second Reading by City Council; expected Adoption by Council
August 1, 2013 - Effective date of Ordinance; owners who want to vest their rights to redevelop have one additional year until August 1, 2014 to meet the 3 criteria listed in the ordinance (exact language coming soon; please check back here)

10. What is the proposed amendment language?: Note: This language is as of June 19, 2013, as approved at the City Council's first reading.

11. Will my home/lot(s) be affected? (With maps and graphics.)

The city provides several documents for homeowners to determine if they could be affected by the Zoning Ordinance amendment:

12. I received a postcard telling me my substandard lot is affected. What was this?: The postcard was sent by a private party, and although it read "Official Notice," it was not an official notice sent by the city. The proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment does not affect all substandard lots. The proposed amendment, if enacted, will only affect the redevelopment of substandard lots where an existing house straddles or touches multiple substandard lots. See the above section for maps and a list of addresses that could potentially be affected.

13. What is the Planning Commission's stance on this issue?: The Planning Commission has recommended that the City Council consider and enact the proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment. Read the memo dated May 2013 from the Planning Commission to the City Council.

14. How can I give input on this issue?: The City Council welcomes public comment via email, by mail
City Council, c/o City Clerk
300 Park Ave.
Suite 303 E.
Falls Church, VA 22046

Or at any regular meeting (2nd and 4th Mondays of the month at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers
City Hall
300 Park Ave.
Falls Church, VA 22046

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Zoning Businesses

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1. Can I operate a home-based business or office in my home?: Yes, providing compliance with several conditions. There are 2 types of home-based businesses, also referred to as Home Occupations. A Minor Home Occupation is a small business or office operated out of a home and is secondary to the primary use of the property as a residence. There cannot be any display of merchandise, an increase in traffic, or employees other than family members who reside there. A Major Home Occupation is essentially a full-fledged business operated from a residence. Major Home Occupations require a Special Use Permit.

2. How do I obtain a permit for a sign for my business and what type of sign am I allowed?: Generally, every type of sign requires a permit issued by the Zoning Division. Some signs, due to their limited function or size, can be approved by the Zoning Administrator with minimal review. A typical business sign will most likely require a Sign Permit Application and review by the Architectural Advisory Board (AAB) during a public hearing. A building permit may also be required. Signs that do not conform to the Code, such as for size, number, or placement, may require a variance. It is especially important that prospective businesses check with the Zoning Division to discuss what signs are allowed at a location before they sign a lease.

Sign regulations are contained in Chapter 38-31 of the City Code. Refer to Section 31.

3. Are for sale/rent signs from Realtors or property owners allowed?: Yes, but only within certain guidelines. No more than 4 signs are allowed for each property being advertised, and signs can only be 6 square feet in area and no taller than 3 feet. Signs can only be displayed on Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays and cannot be placed in a public right of way or on property without the owner's permission. Signs found to be in violation will be removed.

4. What is required by the Zoning Division to open a business in Falls Church?: Before a property can be occupied by a business, an Occupancy Permit must be obtained from the Department of Development Services. A review is conducted by the Zoning Division and the Building Official. Zoning will verify that the intended business use is allowed in that Zoning District. A review of required parking is also done. Uses that are not allowed by Code or that cannot provide the minimum required parking spaces will be denied by the Zoning Administrator. Prospective businesses are urged to contact the Zoning Division prior to signing a lease with the property owner.

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Zoning Property Improvements

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1. What is a variance and when will I need one?: A variance is a relaxation of the Code by the Board of Zoning Appeals, usually at the request of a property owner. Variances are requested when the applicant feels that a strict application of the Code creates an undue hardship. A request for variance must include a statement clearly defining how the Code causes this undue hardship. Variances are generally not granted for structures, uses, or conditions viewed as accessory to the property. For example, requesting permission to construct a garage that is taller than the Code allows will typically not be granted. The variance process, by design, places the burden on the applicant, and not all variances are granted. The variance hearing is public and property owners in the area will be given the chance to speak in favor of or opposition to the application.

2. How do I obtain a variance?: Certain construction, buildings, and additions to structures are not allowed except by a variance to the Code. A Variance Application is filed with the Zoning Division, a fee is paid, and the matter is then scheduled for a public hearing before the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA).

3. How do I obtain a Special Use Permit?: Some uses require approval by the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). A Special Use application is filed with the Zoning Division, a fee is paid, and the matter is then scheduled for a public hearing before the BZA.

4. What are the required yard setbacks?: In general, certain areas of a property cannot contain a structure. Setbacks are established based on the Zoning District, location, use and the size of the lot. Yard Setback Requirements.

5. What percentage of a property can be occupied by structures and impervious surfaces?: Single-family and 2 family residential properties are limited to a maximum building coverage of 25% and impervious coverage of 35%. In general, driveways, walks and uncovered decks do not count toward building coverage. Lot Coverage Requirements.

6. How tall can my house, garage, or commercial building be?

Residential structures in the City of Falls Church are limited to 35 feet or 2.5 stories. The height of a building (in feet) means the vertical distance measured from the average grade of the building footprint to the highest point of the coping of a flat roof, or the deck line of a mansard roof, or the mean height level between eaves and ridge for gable, hip, and gambrel roofs. Average grade shall be determined using the finished grade level or the natural grade level, whichever is lower. Garages and auxiliary structures are limited to 12 feet in height measured to the midpoint of the gable for non-historic properties and 1.5 stories and 20 feet in height for historic properties.

Commercial structures are limited to 4 stories and 55 feet in Zoning Districts B-1 and B-3, and are limited to 7 stories and 75 feet in Zoning District B-2.

Commercial structures are allowed more stories and greater height by approval of a Special Exception application. For details on the Special Exception process, please contact the Planning Division at 703-248-5040 (TTY 711). Building Height Examples.

7. Are there any special requirements for installing outside air conditioning units or other similar equipment?: Yes. In general, outside equipment must be installed no closer than 3 feet to an adjoining property, and cannot be in yards that abut a street. Each piece of equipment must be screened from the view of pedestrians by use of shrubbery or fencing. Installation will require a Building Permit and review by the Zoning Administrator. Utility Installation Guidelines.

8. What restrictions are there for improvements to properties located in the floodplain?: In general, new construction that will impede flood waters or increase impervious surfaces on a property in the flood plain will not be approved or will require certain mitigating measures. Floodplain Impacts on Property.

9. How do I know if my property is in the floodplain?: The Engineering and Construction Division can tell you whether your property is in the designated floodplain. You can reach the division at 703-248-5080 (TTY 711).

10. What rules apply to putting up a shed on my property?: Sheds, like garages, are considered Auxiliary Structures. Sheds must be located in a side or rear yard no closer than 3 feet from the property line, and cannot be taller than 12 feet. Sheds must also be kept at least 10 feet from the house. Sheds that are 200 square feet or greater in area require a Building Permit. Sheds less than 200 square feet in area do not require a building permit, but do require a application for a waiver. If electrical service is installed, an Electrical Permit is required. The application for a waiver, as well as Building and Electrical Permit applications, are available at the Department of Development Services Office, they can be reached at 703-248-5080 (TTY 711).

11. What rules apply to putting up a fence, wall, or hedge on my property?: In a front yard, there is a height restriction of 4 feet, and in a side or rear yard the maximum height is 7 feet. Corner lots actually have 2 front yards and 2 side yards, so bear that in mind when calculating the allowable height. Corner lots must also consider visibility of traffic and pedestrians. While a fence does not require a permit, it does require application for a waiver so the city can review the proposed installation. The application for a waiver is available at the Department of Development Services Office, they can be reached at 703-248-5080 (TTY 711).

12. What rules are there regarding visibility obstructions on corner lots?: In general, yards near intersections must be kept clear of vision obstructions between 3.5 feet and 10 feet above ground. This applies to hedges, walls, and fences that may pose a hazardous vision obstruction for vehicles and pedestrians. The distance from the curb varies depending on the intersection. Determining Visibility for Corner Lots.

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Book Club to Go

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Business Licenses

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Chapter 7 Transportation

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Commissioner of the Revenue

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Composting Workshops

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Curbside Pickup

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Employee Assistance Program

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Proposed Stormwater Ordinance

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Stormwater Credit Policy

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Stormwater Fund Payments

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Stormwater Impervious Coverage

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Treasurer

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Vehicle & Personal Property Tax Relief Act (PPTRA)

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Zoning

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Zoning Businesses

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Zoning Property Improvements