Commissioner Jean-Pierre L. Oriol of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR), announces that the Division of Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning (CCZP) will implement a new Comprehensive Land & Water Use Plan Consistency Worksheet requirement for all Zoning Map Amendment (Rezoning/Use Variance) and Planned Area Development (PAD) applications beginning October 1, 2026.
The worksheet is designed to help applicants demonstrate how proposed projects support the goals, policies, and strategies outlined in the 2024 U.S. Virgin Islands Comprehensive Land & Water Use Plan. The plan is available online at www.planusvi.com. The worksheet can be found on DPNR’s website at https://dpnr.vi.gov/
“This new requirement is an important step in implementing the Territory’s Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan and ensuring that development decisions are guided by a clear, consistent framework,” said Commissioner Oriol. “The worksheet will help applicants, reviewers, decision-makers, and the public better understand how proposed projects contribute to the long-term vision and priorities of the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
The Consistency Worksheet promotes greater transparency, accountability, and consistency in land use decision-making by providing a standardized method for evaluating development proposals. The tool will assist CCZP staff and decision-makers in assessing how projects address key planning considerations, including natural resource protection, climate resilience, infrastructure capacity, housing needs, economic development, and island-specific priorities.
By formally documenting consistency findings as part of the review process, DPNR is strengthening its commitment to responsible growth and development that aligns with the goals of the Comprehensive Plan and supports a sustainable future for the U.S. Virgin Islands.
