On June 4, 2025, the Prince William County Board of Supervisors approved a new Affordable Dwelling Unit Ordinance that becomes effective on Dec. 1, 2025. The ordinance, adopted under the authority of Virginia Code §15.2-2305.1, aligns with the housing policy goals outlined in the county’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
The ordinance establishes a bonus density program in exchange for the provision of affordable housing units at 50% and 80% of Area Median Income (AMI), establishes a Housing Trust Fund to provide gap financing in support of affordable housing production, and streamlines the application and review process for developers. The board appropriated $10.5 million to the Housing Fund with a plan to raise its total to $31 million by FY 2029.
In contrast to ordinances in other jurisdictions, this program is voluntary. The new ordinance allows developers to qualify for bonus density in which 10% applies to 80% AMI units and 5% applies to 50% AMI units.
The new ordinance will not impact approved projects. It may, but is not required to, be used by projects currently in the zoning process.
Housing stakeholders should continue to monitor legislative action affecting affordable housing development in Prince William County.
Contact members of the McGuireWoods Real Estate Transactions Practice Group and land use practice area to discuss options and strategy.