News, Events, Public Notices

The Colonial Heights Planning and Community Development Department is excited to announce the Yard of the Year Contest! Registration is now underway.

The “Yard of the Year” contest rewards neighbors who exhibit exceptional care in maintaining and improving their property.  The purpose of the competition is to encourage civic spirit and recognize Colonial Heights residents who contribute to the overall appearance of the city.  

Nomination: 

Any resident of a residential property within the limits of Colonial Heights can nominate their own yard or someone else’s yard by submitting a “Yard of the Year” contest application.  Applications can be submitted online through the Recreation and Parks portal.  Residents may also pick up applications at the Department of Planning and Community Development.  Residents may call the Department’s main line – (804) 520-9297 – for assistance.  

The submission windows for contests are as follows: 

• Spring: April 1 – May 31 
• Summer: July 1 - August 31 
• Fall: September 1 - October 31 

Judging of the contest and the announcement of winners will occur in June, September and November. 

Contest Rules: 

1. All residential properties, either owner-occupied or leased, within the city limits are eligible. 
2. There is no contest application fee. 
3. Judging and announcement of winners will occur in June, September, and November. 
4. Properties will be evaluated based on the condition of their front façade and front/side yard as viewed from the street. 
5. All contest applications must include a photo of the nominated property. Judges will first screen nominees based on the photos submitted and make drive-by inspections of properties to determine winners. 
6. Yards improved and maintained as part of service projects by neighborhood groups, community organizations, or nonprofits are eligible.  
7. The upkeep of properties can reflect the efforts of the residents themselves or that of a professional landscaper. 
8. Judges may nominate properties. 
9. Judges’ properties may not be nominated. 
10. No resident may receive more than one seasonal award in any calendar year. 
11. A property must be nominated for each season of the year to be eligible for the annual “Yard of the Year” 1st and 2nd place awards. 

For a complete listing of guidelines, click here.