Richmond Daily: Bag Tax, Zoning Rewrite, and Soaking Rains Shape the Week

Richmond, VA — February 17, 2026 — From new fees on plastic bags to a sweeping zoning rewrite, City Hall is driving a busy mid-February news cycle as the region also dries out from a soggy weekend storm.

City approves 5-cent tax on plastic bags

Richmond shoppers will soon see a new 5-cent charge on many disposable plastic bags at grocery, convenience and drug stores. City Council has approved a local tax set to take effect in early 2026, joining other Virginia localities that use bag fees to cut litter and pollution.

Supporters say the measure should reduce plastic waste in neighborhoods and waterways and lower cleanup costs. The city estimates millions of bags are used each year and expects several hundred thousand dollars in annual revenue, much of which will support environmental and solid waste programs. Opponents on Council raised concerns about the impact on low-income and older residents who rely on plastic bags.

The tax will not apply to certain uses, such as bagging produce or meat, prescription drugs, or prepackaged trash and pet waste bags. Officials plan targeted outreach to small businesses before the fee begins.

Major zoning “Code Refresh” enters public spotlight

Alongside the bag debate, Richmond planners are pushing ahead with “Code Refresh,” a full rewrite of the city’s 1970s-era zoning ordinance guided by the Richmond 300 master plan. Draft maps and updated use regulations are now available, and the city has started a new round of public engagement.

The overhaul aims to make zoning rules better match today’s housing, transportation and economic development goals, while advancing equity and sustainability. Every parcel in the city is slated for review, and residents are being urged to study draft maps, attend meetings and share comments before any final votes by Council.

Weekend storms bring heavy rain, mild stretch ahead

After a calm start to February, Richmond saw a soaking rain event Sunday, with periods of steady, at times heavy, showers across the metro area. Local forecasts called for around a half-inch to more than an inch of rainfall, particularly south of I-64, along with cool daytime highs in the 40s and low 50s.

The wet weather is giving way to drier, milder days as the week goes on. Forecasters expect clouds to break, with temperatures climbing back into the 50s and eventually pushing near or above 60 degrees later this week, offering a brief taste of early spring before the next chance of showers.

Planning ahead: Long-range housing and growth work continues

Beyond this week’s headlines, the city is also gathering public input on its 2026–2030 Consolidated Plan for federal housing and community development funds. Officials are asking residents to weigh in on priorities such as affordable housing, neighborhood infrastructure and services as part of a multi-year strategy to align local and federal dollars.

Sources

• https://www.richmonder.org/city-council-approves-5-cent-tax-on-plastic-bags-starting-in-2026/
• https://www.rva.gov/planning-development-review/code-refresh
• https://www.wtvr.com/weather/todays-forecast/richmond-virginia-feb-15-2026
• https://rva.gov/housing-and-community-development/2026-2030-consolidated-plan