Floodplains, RPAs, wetlands and stormwater in Alexandria, VA
Resource Protection Areas along the city's streams and the Potomac limit new building and paving. SetbackIQ checks the city's RPA map.
A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Alexandria before you build.
The details
- Development in an RPA is limited to water-dependent uses and redevelopment, with a 100 ft vegetated buffer.High confidence
Check a project at your address
SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.
Common questions
- What if my lot is in a floodplain, Resource Protection Area or wetland in Alexandria?
- Resource Protection Areas along the city's streams and the Potomac limit new building and paving. SetbackIQ checks the city's RPA map.
Sources
- Virginia Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Designation and Management Regulations (9VAC25-830-80, -140). Checked 2026-10-21
Land development may be allowed in the Resource Protection Area, subject to approval by the local government, only if it [is water dependent, is redevelopment, or fits the other listed cases]... The 100-foot wide buffer area shall be the landward component …
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.