10-18-2022 Joint Meeting Agenda Packet
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
JOINT MEETING WITH BZA AND PLANNING COMMISSION
Tuesday, October 18, 2022 – 2:00 PM
Board Meeting Room
39 Bank Street, SE,
Chatham, Virginia 24531
AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER (2:00 PM)
2. ROLL CALL
3. AGENDA ITEMS TO BE ADDED
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PRESENTATIONS
a. Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation (Staff Contact: Emily S. Ragsdale);
(Presenter: The Berkley Group)
6. ADJOURNMENT
Board of Supervisors
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
ACTION ITEM
Agenda Title: Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation
Staff Contact(s): Emily S. Ragsdale
Agenda Date: October 18, 2022 Item Number: 5.a
Attachment(s):
Worksession 1 Agenda
Attachment A - Project Schedule and Progress
Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation
Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary
Attachment D - Proposed Ordinance Structure
AgricultureRuralPreservationGuideCompressed
ZoningGuide
Reviewed By:
SUMMARY:
Berkley Group representatives will review the attached items with the Board of Zoning Appeals,
Planning Commission, and Board of Supervisors regarding the ongoing mass Zoning Ordinance
revision.
5.a
Packet Pg. 2
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Joint Worksession #1 | Agenda
October 18, 2022
Agenda | Page 1 of 2
Project Overview
Pittsylvania County has enlisted the support of the Berkley Group to update, modernize, and restructure
the Zoning Ordinance. The revised Zoning Ordinance will:
- Provide streamlined and user-friendly regulations;
- Incorporate best planning practices and current Code of Virginia requirements;
- Address the goals and strategies identified in the Comprehensive Plan; and
- Consider citizen needs and issues identified through the public engagement process.
This process will be guided by County staff, the Planning Commission, and the Board of Supervisors and
includes opportunities for input from stakeholders and County residents. Today’s meeting is intended to
review findings and receive feedback from the Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission regarding
the Zoning Ordinance diagnostic, the public engagement results, and a high-level review of the proposed
structure of the new Zoning Ordinance.
Agenda
1. Berkley Group Presentation:
a. Project Schedule and Progress (Attachment A)
b. Diagnostic Findings (Attachment B)
c. Public Engagement Findings (Attachment C)
d. Proposed Ordinance Structure (Attachment D)
e. Next Steps
2. Questions & Closing
Project Schedule & Progress
Progress to date includes:
• Staff Kickoff – Held on June 8, 2022. The Berkley Group conducted a kickoff meeting with
Pittsylvania County staff to review the scope of work and deliverable items. This meeting gave
Berkley Group’s team insight into current issues and areas of focus.
• Board of Supervisors Kickoff – Held on July 19, 2022. During this meeting, the Berkley Group gave
a presentation on the scope of work and schedule.
• Public Engagement – Public engagement offered opportunities to collect community feedback on
priorities for the ordinance update. A public survey was conducted from August 1 through
September 2, 2022; stakeholder interviews and a public workshop were held on August 16, 2022.
5.a.a
Packet Pg. 3 Attachment: Worksession 1 Agenda (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Joint Worksession #1 | Agenda
October 18, 2022
Agenda | Page 2 of 2
Diagnostic
The Berkley Group has completed a diagnostic evaluation of the Zoning Ordinance for compliance with the
Code of Virginia, alignment with the Comprehensive Plan, and use of best planning practices. Board and
Commission members are encouraged to review this evaluation and come prepared with questions and
feedback on the recommendations.
See Attachment B for the Zoning Ordinance Evaluation.
Public Engagement
Community input will underpin the Berkley Group’s recommendations for ordinance revisions to zoning
districts, use performance standards, and community design standards. Board and Commission members
are encouraged to review the public engagement summary and share any additional guidance or insight on
these results.
See Attachment C for the summary of input from each stakeholder group and each workshop, as well as a
public survey report.
Proposed Ordinance Structure
See Attachment D for the proposed structure of the Zoning Ordinance.
Reorganization of the Ordinance is recommended to provide a streamlined, more user-friendly document
that offers predictability and transparency. The recommended ordinance structure reorganization would:
• Aid staff with administration and enforcement;
• Improve the general interpretation and use by the community;
• Provide enhanced standards for design elements such as signage, noise, buffering, and lighting;
• Provide further detail and clarity regarding permitted uses and use standards; and,
• Consolidate definitions into an adopted ordinance article.
Next Steps
The Berkley Group will review recommendations and begin drafting ordinance articles. Topics to be
discussed at the next meeting include:
• General and Administrative
• Permits and Applications
• Nonconformities
• Related Definitions
Berkley Group Guides
Included as part of the packet are Berkley Group guides to rural preservation and zoning. These guides are
intended to serve as a supplement to the diagnostic and public engagement findings and provide a high-
level overview of zoning and the Ordinance update process, as well as key preservation tools for rural and
agricultural lands.
5.a.a
Packet Pg. 4 Attachment: Worksession 1 Agenda (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment A: Project Schedule and Progress
Project Schedule and Progress | Page 1 of 1
The project schedule below indicates major tasks and the target month of completion.
5.a.b
Packet Pg. 5 Attachment: Attachment A - Project Schedule and Progress (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Evaluation | October 18, 2022
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 6 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
1Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation Table of Contents
Overview 2
Purpose & Scope 2
Process 2
Key Findings 4
State Code Compliance 5
Zoning Analysis 6
Comp. Plan Analysis 12
Next Steps 13
Report Conclusions 14
Appendices 15
Appendix A: Zoning Matrix 16
Appendix B: Comprehensive
Plan Matrix 61
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Packet Pg. 7 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
2 Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation
The Zoning Ordinance is one of the key tools localities use to regulate the use and development of land.
As part of Pittsylvania County’s full review and update of the Zoning Ordinance, the County commissioned
a diagnostic study to examine the Ordinance for compliance with the Code of Virginia and other land use
and development best practices.
The Berkley Group, a Virginia-based local government consulting firm, completed this assessment, which
included the following tasks:
• Analyze the Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 35, found in the Code of Ordinances for Pittsylvania
County, Virginia.
• Provide best practice recommendations, along with recommendations for alignment with
applicable County policy documents, including the Comprehensive Plan.
• Incorporate known ordinance strengths and weaknesses as provided by County staff knowledgeable
with zoning regulations.
Purpose and Scope
The Zoning Ordinance update began in June 2022
with a kick-off meeting with County staff to discuss
broad community goals and specific issues with the
County’s ordinances. A public engagement period,
held in August 2022, also provided insight into
concerns, goals, and priorities related to the Zoning
Ordinance and land use. These two components
in the process were considered in tandem with
a comprehensive review of Pittsylvania County’s
Zoning Ordinance to assess how the regulations
provided for in this Ordinance comply with the
requirements of the Code of Virginia.
The Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance was
assessed for compliance with each pertinent
section of the Code of Virginia Chapter 22: Planning,
Subdivision of Land and Zoning and analyzed for
potential improvements to structure and content.
Process
Additionally, a broad review of Pittsylvania
County’s current Comprehensive Plan identified
opportunities to implement policies and strategies
through the Zoning Ordinance update. These
diagnostic matrices are included in the appendices
of this report for easy reference and examination.
This report identifies actions Pittsylvania County
should take that will strengthen the ordinance
and ensure complete compliance with the Code
of Virginia requirements. Specific actions are also
recommended to improve the consistency, clarity,
and completeness of the Zoning Ordinance. These
recommended changes will improve the ability of
public officials, citizens, and other stakeholders
to better understand, administer, and use the
ordinance in practice.
This diagnostic report
recommends actions that
will improve the ability of all
stakeholders and staff to more
easily understand, administer,
and use Pittsylvania County’s
Zoning Ordinance - one of its
key land use tools.
Specific recommendations are
included in Appendix A and
Appendix B and summarized
throughout this report.
Overview 5.a.c
Packet Pg. 8 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
3Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation
Zoning Ordinance
Diagnostic Matrix
FINAL REPORT
&
ANALYSIS
+
County and Public Input
Overview
Comprehensive Plan
Diagnostic Matrix
+
=
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Packet Pg. 9 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
4 Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance EvaluationKey Findings
Pittsylvania County’s Zoning
Ordinance should be revised
to reflect current best practices
in zoning and land use; to
strengthen and enhance
the ability to implement the
strategies and priority items
of the current Comprehensive
Plan; and to improve clarity and
ease of use with the following
actions:
Zoning Ordinance Key Findings
• The Zoning Ordinance should introduce new provisions to meet the objectives of the County’s
current Comprehensive Plan, including providing a full range of housing choice options, preserving
agricultural lands, and providing enhanced standards for design elements such as signage, noise,
landscaping, buffering, and lighting.
• The Zoning Ordinance should be organized and streamlined into a user-friendly, clearly written
document. This is to aid staff with administration and enforcement and the community with general
interpretation and use.
• The Zoning Ordinance should be updated to achieve full compliance with the Code of Virginia, as
detailed in the recommendations of the Zoning Diagnostic Matrix and summarized in the compliance
analysis charts on page 5.
• Uses and definitions within the Zoning Ordinance should be updated to include modern uses, while
omitting outdated uses and definitions that may no longer comply with the Code of Virginia.
• An article containing a use matrix to clearly detail the permitted uses in each zoning district should
be introduced, along with a separate article providing detailed and appropriate use standards. All
existing use standards should undergo a thorough review and be updated as needed to comply with
the Code of Virginia and planning and zoning best practices.
• The Zoning Ordinance should be reviewed and updated annually with the Planning Commission and
Board of Supervisors. This is a best practice technique which ensures that the Ordinance remains
compliant with the Code of Virginia and relevant and responsive to community needs.
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Packet Pg. 10 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
5Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation
Chart Title
State Code Compliance Analysis
Chart 1
Applicability of
Code of Virginia Sections
Chart 3
Optional* Provisions Usage
Chart 2
Compliance with Applicable* Sections
Chart Title
Chart Title
Not Applicable
24%
Applicable
76%
Does Comply
27%
Does Not Comply
15%
Partially Complies
13%
Included
7%
Partially
Included
1%
Not Included
13%
This set of diagrams showcases the
Zoning Ordinance’s overall applica-
bility and compliance with the Code
of Virginia’s zoning regulations. A
detaied analysis of each code section
in provided in Appendix A; these
charts offer a broad look at Pittsylva-
nia County’s standing.
Chart 1 highlights the percentages
of the Code of Virginia regulations
that are and are not applicable to the
Zoning Ordinance. The applicable
percentage includes both mandatory
and optional provisions.
Chart 2 highlights the collective per-
centage of the Zoning Ordinance that
fully complies, does not comply, or
partially complies with the Code of
Virginia. These figures do not include
optional provision percentages.
Chart 3 highlights the percentage of
optional provisions that are included,
not included, or partially included in
the Zoning Ordinance.
* Chart does not include Optional or Non-Applicable percentages
Total Optional Provisions: 21%
Total Non-Applicable Provisions: 24%
* Total Optional Provisions: 21% of all provisions
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Packet Pg. 11 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
6 Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance EvaluationZoning Analysis
The Zoning Ordinance is
the local code that provides
regulations and requirements
for the use and development
of land. Zoning divides a
locality into specific districts
and establishes regulations
concerning the use, placement,
spacing, and size of land and
buildings within the respective
districts. The Zoning Ordinance
is the primary instrument used
by localities to implement
the long-range vision found
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Pittsylvania County’s Zoning
Ordinance can be updated and
improved to better manage
land development activities,
enhance clarity, and ensure
compliance with the Code of
Virginia.
Federal and State Compliance
Any Zoning Ordinance update should incorporate
current Code of Virginia references and address
recent amendments to the Code of Virginia. The
current Zoning Ordinance contains many footnotes
and references to outdated sections of the Code of
Virginia; careful attention should be given to update
all references with the most up-to-date section
numbers. Several provisions related to review and
application timeframes also do not align with what
is permissible by the Code. The Zoning Ordinance
diagnostic (Appendix A) itemizes each Code of
Virginia section that must be addressed.
Ordinance Organization and Structure
The current Zoning Ordinance is disorganized due
to numerous text amendments over the course
of multiple decades, which is common of older
ordinances. The Ordinance would therefore benefit
from a restructuring to ensure a more organized
and user-friendly document. The Berkley Group
typically recommends the following structure for
zoning ordinances: Administration, Permits and
Applications, Zoning Districts, Use Matrix, Use
Standards, Community Design, Nonconformities,
Definitions.
Administration
The Zoning Ordinance should clearly articulate
ordinance administration, application, and notice
procedures and responsibilities. An administrative
article should detail all application processes and
procedures in one location, including those for text
amendments, map amendments (i.e., rezonings),
variances, special use permits, site plans, appeals,
and boundary interpretations. While the Zoning
Ordinance does include sections establishing the
authority of the County to regulate land use, the
Ordinance is lacking several other administrative
requirements from the Code of Virginia, including
clearly written provisions regarding advertisements
and public notice and procedures for joint public
hearings. The included timeframes for Planning
Commission and Board of Supervisors’ review are
also more stringent than what is required by the
Code of Virginia. All administrative procedures
within the Zoning Ordinance should be aligned with
the Code of Virginia and restructured to feature a
consolidated and comprehensive administrative
article.
Civil Penalties
Pittsylvania County currently does not provide
procedures for civil penalties for zoning violations.
Misdemeanor penalties for violations of the Zoning
Ordinance are utilized; however, as a best practice,
the County should introduce civil penalties and use
such penalties as a first line of defense, moving to
misdemeanors as appropriate. A uniform schedule
and summons procedure should be applied for civil
penalties as detailed in the Code of Virginia.
Fees and Taxes
The Zoning Ordinance currently includes fees for
applications and permits. It is recommended to
include these fees in a comprehensive fee schedule
that ideally incorporates all County fees and
operates as a standalone ordinance outside of the
Zoning Ordinance. This facilitates the process of
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 12 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
7Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation Zoning Analysis
amending fees, as well as annual review procedures
during budgeting.
As a best practice, it is recommended that the
County implement the optional provision within
Code of Virginia §15.2-2286, which requires any
delinquent taxes to be paid prior to submission of a
zoning application. This is a tool that many Virginia
localities have found useful in obtaining payment of
delinquent taxes.
District Standards
The Zoning Ordinance provides district standards
that address height, area, setbacks, and lot
coverage. These standards should be evaluated
to ensure they are promoting the desired type of
development, with changes being made where
necessary.
Setbacks
While setback standards are included in the
Zoning Ordinance for all districts, they should be
reviewed, revised, and reorganized for consistency.
Both County staff and the public highlighted
current setback regulations as a major challenge
in interpreting and applying the Zoning Ordinance.
For example, in some cases, side setbacks are
determined as a percentage of the lot frontage
on a public road; and front setbacks are measured
from the centerline or the edge of the right-of-way,
whichever is greater. The placement of accessory
structures in rear setbacks, as well as all rear
setbacks for parcels adjoining Smith Mountain
Lake, are both unclear. Additionally, several districts
allow uses to be built right up to the property
line, which can lead to challenges for utility
placement and negative impacts on neighboring
properties. The Berkley Group recommends closely
reviewing setback requirements to ensure ease
of administration, adequate siting of structures,
and consistency in how setbacks are determined
and applied. All dimensional standards should be
reviewed to ensure consistency and that standards
remain appropriate for modern uses.
Minimum Lot Size
Minimum lot size standards are provided in the
Zoning Ordinance for all districts; however, these
standards should be reevaluated to ensure that
the densities being facilitated by these minimum
lot sizes correspond to the purpose and permitted
uses within each zoning district. In particular, the
minimum lot size in the A-1 district is less than a
half-acre, which is not large enough for most types
of agricultural activity. One implication of small
minimum agricultural lot sizes is complications
with establishing well and septic systems. However,
increasing minimum lot size alone could potentially
cause the deterioration of rural character due
to the loss of productive farmland. Two potential
solutions the County can explore are the addition of
density or sliding scale requirements; these would
still allow smaller agricultural lot sizes, but limit the
proliferation of subdivisions where inappropriate.
Dimensional Standards
All other dimensional standards addressed in the
Zoning Ordinance – such as maximum height,
lot coverage requirements, and open space
requirements – should be reviewed to ensure
consistency and that standards remain appropriate
for modern uses. The Zoning Ordinance can
also incorporate a “Setback and Site Dimensions
Chart” that can include height limits, lot coverage,
setbacks, etc. This provides one place for each
district’s dimensional regulations and increases
readability.
Exhibit 1 on the following page shows some of the
current district regulations of the Zoning Ordinance
in chart form.
This graphic depicts the locations of setbacks on a
property, as well as how lot coverage is calculat-
ed. Dimensional standards including setback and
lot coverage requirements can be reviewed and
amended for consistency and to ensure compatibil-
ity between uses.
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Packet Pg. 13 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
8 Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance EvaluationZoning Analysis
SSTTAANNDDAARRDD
A-1 RE R-1 RC-1 R-MF RPD MHP B-1 B-2 M-1 M-2 C-1
Area 20,000 sq. ft. 5 acres
5 contiguous
acres 6,000 sq. ft. Subject to
VDH Approval
Subject to
VDH Approval
Subject to
VDH Approval
Subject to
VDH Approval 20,000 sq. ft.
With Public
Water AANNDD
Sewer
10,000 sq. ft. 10,000 sq. ft.
10,000 sq. ft. per
duplex; 3,000 sq.
ft. for each
additional unit
With Public
Water OORR Sewer 15,000 sq. ft. 15,000 sq. ft.
21,000 sq. ft. per
duplex; 6,000 sq.
ft. for each
additional unit
NNOO Public Water
or Sewer 20,000 sq. ft. 20,000 sq. ft.
26,250 sq. ft. per
duplex; 7,500 sq.
ft. for each
additional unit
Minimum road
frontage, not in cul-
de-sac 150 ft. 75 ft. 75 ft.
Minimum road
frontage in cul-de-
sac 50 ft. 30 ft. 30 ft.
Lot Width
N/A 150 ft.
Cul-de-sac 30 ft.,
all others 100 ft.N/A 50 ft. per lot
With Public Water
AANNDD Sewer 75 ft. 75 ft.
With Public Water
OORR Sewer 100 ft. 100 ft.
NNOO Public Water
or Sewer 100 ft. 100 ft.
Minimum
distance
between side lot
line at the
building line
N/A 100 ft.
Equal to mean
width as
shown in lot
width above
Equal to mean
width as
shown in lot
width above
N/A
N/A N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A N/A
Road Frontage
Lot Width
EEXXHHIIBBIITT 11
DDiissttrriicctt SSttaannddaarrddss ((CCuurrrreenntt))
DDIISSTTRRIICCTT
N/A
Minimum Lot Size
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 14 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
9Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation
Definitions and Uses
The definitions section of the Zoning Ordinance
should be reviewed and updated to ensure
consistency, clarity, and ease of interpretation.
The County should ensure that every land use
permitted in the Ordinance has an accompanying
definition, and that all definitions are clear to
avoid interpretation issues. Currently, definitions
are included as a supplementary document to
the Ordinance, with the majority of definitions
not formally integrated as a numbered section. It
is recommended that the definitions section be
expanded as noted above and fully and formally
adopted as an article within the Zoning Ordinance.
The current Zoning Ordinance contains several
terms with definitions that are outdated and should
be updated to reflect recent revisions to the Code
of Virginia as well as general modern best practices.
Further, the Zoning Ordinance lacks the terms
“amateur radio towers” and “family day home”;
these should be added to comply with the Code
of Virginia, along with several other terms that are
required by the Code of Virginia but not currently
incorporated in the Zoning Ordinance. Appendix A
includes additional terms that are required by and
should be included from the Code of Virginia.
Uses
The Zoning Ordinance contains an expansive
and highly-specific use list that is inflexible and
overly complex. It is recommended to closely
review permitted uses to identify opportunities
to consolidate similar uses under more general
categories for easier administration, interpretation,
and flexibility. Where appropriate, uses should
be streamlined to combine specific terms into
broad categories; examples include “candy shops,”
“antique shops,” and “craft shops” being combined
into “Store, specialty,” and “paper manufacturing,”
“plastics manufacturing,” and “concrete mixing”
being combined into “Manufacturing, heavy.”
This creates a more organized and flexible use list,
reducing the amount of future text amendments
for new uses.
Additionally, uses should be modernized to align
with today’s economy and provide flexibility to
adapt to new uses. This eases administration and
development while also reducing requests for
zoning text amendments. Examples of outdated
uses include “dance halls” and “phonograph sales/
service/repair.” An example of a modern use that
is seen in many localities and should be introduced
is “mini-storage unit.” Public engagement reflected
support for modernizing the Zoning Ordinance with
new uses that reflect diversification of the local
economy, including but not limited to breweries,
short-term rentals, and food trucks.
Residential uses were another type of use
discussed at length during the public engagement
phase. Public engagement reflected a concern
for adequate type and quantity of housing, with
several community stakeholders stating that more
multi-family housing and housing for older adults
in particular are needed to keep up with demand.
Housing types should be reviewed, and where
applicable, a greater variety of housing should be
permitted by-right.
Zoning Analysis
DefinitionRecommendations
Addition or Revision for Compliance
with the Code of Virginia
• Group home
• Small cell facility
• Energy storage
Recommended Uses for
Consolidation
• Manufacturing, light
• Manufacturing, heavy
• Store, specialty
Recommended New Uses for Code
Modernization
• Short-term rental
• Restaurant, mobile
• Agritourism
• Mixed-use structure
This list highlights examples, and is not inclu-sive of all possible recommendations.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 15 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
10 Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation
Use Regulations
Currently, use regulations are provided in district-
by-district ordinance sections. As a foundational
improvement, the Berkley Group typically
recommends compiling use regulations into a
composite use matrix or matrices. This allows
a user to easily identify where a specific use is
permitted either by-right or through a Special Use
Permit without having to browse several sections
of the Zoning Ordinance. This is particularly useful
for potential businesses considering expanding
or locating in the County. Additionally, the Zoning
Ordinance uses “Special Use Permit” and Special
“Exception Permit” interchangeably; recommend
using the term “Special Use Permit” exclusively as
a best practice and to reduce potential confusion.
Performance Standards
Performance standards for specific uses are
provided in Article I, Division 3 and Article II, Division
4, with some additional standards interspersed
in specific zoning district regulations and the
Supplementary Definitions to the Pittsylvania
County Zoning Ordinance. Use performance
standards should be consolidated in a single article
and expanded to include additional standards
where desirable and appropriate. Occasionally,
use performance standards can be used in lieu of
special use permit requirements. This means that
a use requested frequently for a special use permit
can be changed to a by-right use, and customary
conditions of the permits would be inserted as
regulations within the use performance standards
article. Public engagement identified large events,
such as music festivals, as one use in need of
updated performance standards.
Accessory Dwelling Units
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) can be an easy
tool to gain affordable housing – and increase
general housing availability. Accessory dwelling
units are referenced in the Zoning Ordinance as
“homes, single-family dwelling with apartments
on premises”. Currently, they are only permitted
within the Agricultural District. The Berkley Group
recommends updating the ordinance to include
“accessory dwelling unit” as a use with a definition
and use standards. Tailored use standards can
regulate items such as minimum and maximum
floor area or size, parking, location, and number of
ADUs per parcel, among other standards.
Solar Energy Facilities
Solar energy facilities, especially utility-scale
facilities, are becoming an increasingly common use
in Pittsylvania County and throughout Southside
Virginia. Therefore, the County should ensure that
its solar ordinance remains up to date with both
Code of Virginia requirements and planning best
practices.
The solar ordinance does not supply powers of
the host locality, siting agreement regulations, or
application/review procedures with the appropriate
Code of Virginia language and references.
Additionally, the solar ordinance is lacking several
key definitions or parts of definitions, including
“energy storage projects.”
Currently, the solar ordinance requires a siting
agreement prior to application. While the County is
permitted to require siting agreement negotiations
per the Code of Virginia – and is encouraged to
continue doing so as a general best practice –
the County cannot deny an application for a solar
energy facility based on the financial stipulations
of a siting agreement. Language regarding siting
agreement negotiations should be further detailed
and streamlined to align with the Code of Virginia.
It is also recommended that requirements for
setbacks, landscape buffering, decommissioning,
and environmental considerations be closely
reviewed and strengthened, both as a planning best
practice and in response to community concerns.
Zoning Analysis 5.a.c
Packet Pg. 16 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
11Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation
Telecommunications
The Zoning Ordinance’s provisions for
telecommunications and wireless facilities are
currently limited. Currently, all telecommunications
and wireless applications are evaluated under the
“radio and TV towers” use, which is permitted
through a Special Use Permit in most zoning
districts and is a materially different use than
most telecommunications uses. The Zoning
Ordinance should include the appropriate terms
for telecommunications uses as required by the
Code of Virginia; these include “administrative-
review eligible projects” and “small cell facilities”.
Appropriate procedures for application, review,
and associated fees should also be incorporated
into the Zoning Ordinance.
Additionally, Pittsylvania County should consider
including a hierarchy of preferred projects and
design preferences – including structure type,
camouflaging, and landscaping. The ordinance
should provide a balance of regulation without being
overly burdensome to new telecommunications
development. The Zoning Ordinance should be
regularly monitored for compliance with new
legislation due to the continuously changing nature
of the telecommunications industry.
Landscaping
Landscaping requirements are one of the tools
Virginia localities have available to them to enhance
community character, protect environmental
resources, and reduce the impact of potentially
incompatible uses. Local ordinances often require
landscaping and screening as part of development
or land disturbing activities. These requirements
are typically reviewed through an application that
includes a landscape plan submitted as a part of
any development approval. Specific requirements
focus on site design, transitional areas, and
screening. However, the Pittsylvania County Zoning
Ordinance does not currently require landscaping,
screening, or buffers in most cases. Currently,
these requirements may be required by the Zoning
Administrator as a condition of a Special Use
Permit. The lack of other landscaping requirements
leaves landscaping determinations to County staff,
which could lead to challenges of being arbitrary
and capricious. During the public engagement
phase, stakeholders discussed their surprise with
the County’s lack of landscaping standards for
roadway buffers and parking lot landscaping when
compared to other localities in the region, and
suggested that baseline requirements be adopted
at a minimum. As a best practice, the Berkley Group
recommends requiring landscaping and/or physical
screening for business and industrial uses adjacent
to non-business/industrial uses.
In addition to serving as a protective measure
between uses, landscape requirements are an
important aspect of community design, and were
supported during public engagement. Effective
landscaping can help create a sense of place and
help maintain the rural community character.
Consideration can be given to adopting a thorough
set of landscape design requirements that would
help improve the appearance of large commercial
and industrial uses, major corridors, and areas
around Danville and the three Towns.
Lighting
The current Zoning Ordinance does not include
lighting requirements. Lighting requirements
regulate the use of exterior lighting necessary
for nighttime utility, productivity, enjoyment, and
commerce; address compatibility and aesthetic
concerns; ensure exterior lighting does not
adversely impact land uses on adjacent land;
reduce light pollution; and enhance safety and
security of property.
Lighting standards should be introduced in the
Zoning Ordinance and could include items such
as applicable districts or areas; exemptions;
compliance and enforcement; and the specific
regulations that address light arrangement, glare,
direction, maximum height, maximum intensity.
To ensure compliance and longevity of lighting
requirements, all standards should be measurable.
Signs
Pittsylvania County’s current sign regulations are
not content neutral as required under the findings
of U.S. Supreme Court case Reed v. Town of Gilbert.
Any future sign regulations should pay respect only
to the physical characteristics – for example, height
or square footage – and not its supplied content to
comply with the aforementioned court case. There
are many community benefits of regulating the
physical qualities of signs, including reducing clutter,
minimizing distractions to drivers, and enhancing
community aesthetics. Public engagement
indicated a preference for coordinated and orderly
signage throughout the County.
Zoning Analysis 5.a.c
Packet Pg. 17 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
12 Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance EvaluationComp. Plan Analysis
The Pittsylvania County 2010 Comprehensive Plan includes objectives, goals, and strategies across several
general plan elements including Natural and Cultural Environment, Housing, Economic Development,
Transportation, and Land Use and Growth Management. Notable goals and implementation strategies
include reducing conflicts between residential and agricultural uses; amending the Zoning Ordinance to
provide enhanced standards for signage, noise, landscaping, buffering, and lighting; and creating a strong
commercial and industrial base compatible with surrounding development.
As one of the County’s primary land use tools, the Zoning Ordinance can be the means of implementing
the goals, objectives, and implementation strategies of the Comprehensive Plan. Amendments would
therefore allow the Zoning Ordinance to be a responsive document, increasing implementation of the
Comprehensive Plan. Objectives and strategies for the various plan elements are organized by type:
residential land use, commercial and industrial land use , and agricultural land use – among other
distinctions such as access management and community design standards. A detailed list of the objectives
and strategies are listed in Appendix B. However, it should be noted that the provided appendix is not
a comprehensive look at all objectives and strategies provided within the Comprehensive Plan; some
objectives and strategies are shared among differing plan elements or simply not relevant to the Zoning
Ordinance. The included objectives and strategies were chosen to highlight the key themes and strategies
most relevant to the Zoning Ordinance.
It is worth noting that the Comprehensive Plan will be undergoing a review and update as required by
the Code of Virginia during the same timeframe as the Zoning Ordinance update. This provides additional
opportunity for the County to ensure that its vision and goals for land use over the next twenty years
are reflected and codified in the Zoning Ordinance. It is important to acknowledge that the upcoming
Comprehensive Plan update process may shift the County’s existing priorities, objectives, and strategies.
Therefore, the Zoning Ordinance will likely have to be reassessed and amended in the short term to align
with any new Comprehensive Plan objectives and priorities.
Appendix B documents key Comprehensive Plan strategies related to the Zoning Ordinance.
Comprehensive Plan Findings
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 18 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
13Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation Next Steps
Next Steps
1. A public engagement phase consisting of a community survey, stakeholder sessions, and a public
workshop provided feedback on the content of the Zoning Ordinance. Along with feedback from
County staff, the input was considered during the diagnostic review and will continue to be considered
throughout the drafting process.
2. Pittsylvania County’s Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission should consider providing
feedback on the diagnostic reports at the Octover 18, 2022 Joint Worksession Meeting.
3. Bi-monthly joint worksessions between the Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission to review
draft ordinance content will begin in December 2022 and continue until October 2023.
4. The public will be presented with a full draft ordinance to review and provide comment in late 2023.
5. Following incorporation of comments and revisions, the ordinance will be finalized and be reviewed
in final public hearings for adoption in early 2024.
Feedback and continued
engagement from the Board
of Supervisors and Planning
Commission will be vital to the
successful drafting of the new
Zoning Ordinance.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 19 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
14 Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance EvaluationConclusions
Conclusions
Pittsylvania’s County desire to ensure an effective, efficient, and Code-compliant Zoning Ordinance should
be commended. As noted in this report, the County’s Zoning Ordinance requires revision and restructuring
for conformity with the Code of Virginia requirements, as well as best practices related to planning and
zoning.
The recommendations outlined in this report constitute a detailed analysis of the County’s Zoning
Ordinance. Revising the County’s zoning regulations according to these recommendations will ensure that
the ordinance is legally defensible, eases administrative burden for staff, facilitates the protection of rural
character, and reduces impact from differing or incompatible uses. An updated Zoning Ordinance will
also ensure modernity with new uses and aid in realizing the future envisioned in Pittsylvania County’s
Comprehensive Plan. Keeping this land use tool up-to-date and in compliance with the Code of Virginia
should be a commitment the County upholds on an ongoing basis, including periodic reviews and
amendments.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 20 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
15Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation Appendix
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic Matrix 16
Comprehensive Plan Diagnostic Matrix 61
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 21 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Appendix A:
Zoning Ordinance
Diagnostic Matrix
16 5.a.c
Packet Pg. 22 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 11 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
1. 2200 Declaration of
legislative intent
Partial 35-2
35-3
This section of the Code of Virginia provides the purpose of Chapter 22 of the Code of
Virginia.
Section 35-2 contains the statement of intent for the County’s Zoning Ordinance, with
Section 35-3 further detailing the statement of intent. The Zoning Ordinance complies
with this section of the Code of Virginia. HHoowweevveerr,, tthhee eexxiissttiinngg rreeffeerreennccee ttoo tthhee CCooddee ooff
VViirrggiinniiaa iiss oouuttddaatteedd aanndd sshhoouulldd bbee uuppddaatteedd ttoo rreefflleecctt tthhee ccuurrrreenntt CCooddee.. RReeccoommmmeenndd
aallssoo iinncclluuddiinngg aallll rraattiioonnaallee lliisstteedd iinn tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa ffoorr llooccaall zzoonniinngg oorrddiinnaanncceess –– oonnllyy
ssoommee ooff tthhiiss iiss iinncclluuddeedd ccuurrrreennttllyy..
2. 2201 Definitions Partial 35-40
Supplementary
Definitions to
the Pittsylvania
County Zoning
Ordinance
This section of the Code of Virginia provides foundational definitions for terms used
throughout the Chapter 22 regulations of the Code of Virginia.
The Zoning Ordinance provides definitions for general uses, several of which are stated
verbatim from the Code of Virginia. However, most definitions are provided in a
supplementary section, not integrated as a formal code section within the Zoning
Ordinance.
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy sshhoouulldd ccoommppaarree tthheeiirr ddeeffiinniittiioonnss ttoo tthhoossee pprroovviiddeedd iinn tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn ooff
tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa aanndd aadddd aanndd//oorr uuppddaattee aaccccoorrddiinnggllyy ttoo mmaattcchh tthhaatt wwhhiicchh iiss pprroovviiddeedd
iinn §§1155..22--22220011.. EExxaammpplleess ooff ddeeffiinniittiioonnss tthhaatt ccaann bbee aaddddeedd oorr uuppddaatteedd iinn tthhee ZZoonniinngg
OOrrddiinnaannccee iinncclluuddee ““aaffffoorrddaabbllee hhoouussiinngg””,, ““hhiissttoorriicc aarreeaa””,, aanndd ““ppllaannnneedd uunniitt
ddeevveellooppmmeenntt””.. AAddddiittiioonnaallllyy,, rreeccoommmmeenndd iinntteeggrraattiinngg ssuupppplleemmeennttaarryy ddeeffiinniittiioonnss iinnttoo aa
ccoommbbiinneedd ddeeffiinniittiioonnss sseeccttiioonn ooff tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee,, ppllaacceedd aatt tthhee eenndd ooff tthhee
oorrddiinnaannccee aass aa ssttaannddaalloonnee aarrttiiccllee..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 23 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 22 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
3. 2202 Duties of state
agencies; electric
utilities
N/A N/A This section of the Code of Virginia states that any department, board, bureau,
commission, or other agency of the Commonwealth that proposes a project in any
locality shall, upon the request of the local planning commission, furnish reasonable
information requested by the local planning commission relative to the proposed plans.
This section does not apply to Pittsylvania County and therefore is not required to be
included in the Zoning Ordinance. However, the Zoning Administrator and Planning
Commission should be aware of the requirements outlined in this section.
4. 2203 Existing planning
commissions and
boards of zoning
appeals; validation of
plans previously
adopted
Yes Article V,
Division 7
Chapter 13
(outside of
Zoning
Ordinance)
This section of the Code of Virginia states that upon adoption of Chapter 22 of the Code
of Virginia, already established planning commissions and boards of zoning appeals
would continue to operate as if they were created under the terms of Chapter 22.
Article V, Division 7 of the Zoning Ordinance outlines the powers, duties, and procedures
of the Board of Zoning Appeals and Planning Commission. Chapter 13 of the Pittsylvania
County Code outlines the creation of the Planning Commission. The Zoning Ordinance
complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
5. 2204 Advertisement of plans,
ordinances, etc.; joint
public hearings; written
notice of certain
amendments
Partial 35-807 The Zoning Ordinance incorporates this section of the Code of Virginia by reference.
Section 35-807 of the Zoning Ordinance adds an additional requirement that the
Planning Commission shall present its recommendation to the Board of Supervisors
within 60 days of the first meeting of the Commission. However, this timeline is not
within the Code of Virginia; the Code permits up to 12 months for a decision on a
proposed zoning amendment. Additionally, this section contains a reference to an
outdated section of the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd eexxpplliicciittllyy oouuttlliinniinngg CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa aaddvveerrttiissiinngg rreeqquuiirreemmeennttss ffoorr ccllaarriittyy..
RReeccoommmmeenndd aalliiggnniinngg PPllaannnniinngg CCoommmmiissssiioonn rreevviieeww ttiimmee ttoo tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa aanndd
rreemmoovviinngg oouuttddaatteedd rreeffeerreenncceess..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 24 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 33 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
6. 2205 Additional notice of
planning or zoning
matters
Optional,
Included
35-816 This section of the Code of Virginia allows a locality, in addition to specific notice
required by law, to provide notice by any method on any planning or zoning matter that
it deems appropriate for notice.
Section 35-816 establishes that additional notice of a rezoning shall be provided by
means of signs posted on the property proposed for a rezoning. TThhiiss sseeccttiioonn ccaann bbee
ffuurrtthheerr ssttrreennggtthheenneedd tthhrroouugghh iinncclluussiioonn ooff aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22220055..
7. 2206 When locality may
require applicant to
give notice; how given
Optional,
Not Included
N/A This section of the Code of Virginia allows for a locality to require the applicant of any
application to the local governing body, local planning commission, or board of zoning
appeals be responsible for all required notices.
The Zoning Ordinance requires the locality to provide public notice but references an
outdated section of the Code of Virginia.
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy ccaann ccoonnssiiddeerr wwhheetthheerr iitt wwaannttss ttoo bbiillll tthhee aapppplliiccaanntt ffoorr aassssoocciiaatteedd
ccoossttss ooff rreeqquuiirreedd ppuubblliicc nnoottiicceess aass pprroovviiddeedd ffoorr iinn §§1155..22--22220066..
8. 2207 Public notice of
juvenile residential
care facilities in certain
localities
Optional,
N/A
N/A This section of the Code of Virginia allows any locality without an applicable Zoning
Ordinance to require public notice and hearing for any applicant who wishes to establish
a public or private detention home, group home, or other residential care facility for
children in need of services or for delinquent youth.
This section does not apply to Pittsylvania County, as the County has an existing Zoning
Ordinance that addresses use requirements and public notices for rezoning matters.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 25 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 44 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
9. 2208 Restraining violations
of the chapter [Chapter
22 of the Code of
Virginia]
Optional,
Included
35-873
35-874
35-875
35-876
This section of the Code of Virginia allows that any violation or attempted violation of
the Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance may be restrained, corrected, or abated by
injunction or other appropriate proceeding. Further, at any time after the filing of an
injunction or other appropriate proceeding, the zoning administrator or governing body
may issue a memorandum of lis pendens, or a public notice that a suit concerning a title
to property is pending.
Sections 35-873 through 35-876 establish violations of the Zoning Ordinance, and
procedures for the Zoning Administrator to provide notice of and remedy such
violations. CCoonnssiiddeerraattiioonn ccaann bbee ggiivveenn ttoo uuppddaattiinngg tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn ttoo iinncclluuddee aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo
§§1155..22--22220088..
10. 2208.1 Damages for
unconstitutional grant
or denial by locality of
certain permits and
approvals
Yes Not Included The Code of Virginia §15.2-2208.1 states that any applicant aggrieved by a grant or
denial of any zoning-related approval or permit – when such grant or denial was
unconstitutional pursuant to either federal or state law – shall be entitled to
compensatory damages.
The Zoning Ordinance does not include language addressing damages for an
unconstitutional grant or denial; however, these determinations are likely occurring in
practice based on litigation.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg ddiirreecctt rreeffeerreennccee ttoo tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 26 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 55 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
11. 2209 Civil penalties for
violations of Zoning
Ordinance
Optional,
Not Included
N/A Section 35-877 establishes misdemeanor penalties for violations of the Zoning
Ordinance, but civil penalties are not established. The Zoning Ordinance includes neither
summons procedures nor a uniform schedule for civil penalties.
AAss aa bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee,, ccoonnssiiddeerr iinnttrroodduucciinngg tthhee uussee ooff cciivviill ppeennaallttiieess ffoorr zzoonniinngg vviioollaattiioonnss,,
aanndd ccoonnssoolliiddaattiinngg cciivviill ppeennaallttiieess aanndd mmiissddeemmeeaannoorr ppeennaallttiieess iinnttoo aa ssiinnggllee sseeccttiioonn aanndd
iinncclluuddiinngg aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo tthhee aapppplliiccaabbllee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa sseeccttiioonnss.. RReeccoommmmeenndd uussiinngg cciivviill
ppeennaallttiieess aass aa ffiirrsstt lliinnee ooff ddeeffeennssee,, aanndd tthheenn mmoovviinngg ttoo mmiissddeemmeeaannoorrss aass aapppprroopprriiaattee..
SSeeee lliinnee iitteemm 5500 ffoorr aaddddiittiioonnaall aannaallyyssiiss aanndd rreeccoommmmeennddaattiioonnss..
12. 2209.1 Extension of approvals
to address housing
crisis
N/A N/A The Code of Virginia §15.2-2209.1.1 extends the approval of final site plans, special
exceptions, special use permits, and rezoning to assist in addressing the housing crisis
to July 1, 2020, and allows further extension of approval by locality. The extension period
has expired; therefore, no change is required.
13. 2209.1:1 Extension of approvals
to address COVID-19
pandemic
N/A N/A The Code of Virginia §15.2-2209.1.1 extends the approval of final site plans, special
exceptions, special use permits, and rezoning to July 1, 2023, and allows further
extension of approval by locality.
A text amendment is not necessary to comply with this section of the Code of Virginia,
but Pittsylvania County should be implementing this in practice.
14. 2209.2 Public infrastructure
maintenance bonds
N/A N/A This section of the Code of Virginia applies only to the City of Charlottesville; it is not
applicable to Pittsylvania County.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 27 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 66 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
15. 2210 –
2222.1
Local Planning
Commissions
Yes Chapter 13,
Planning
Commission
(outside of
Zoning
Ordinance)
35-700
35-713
35-807
35-812
35-813
35-854
Chapter 13 of the Pittsylvania County Code establishes the creation of the Pittsylvania
County Zoning Ordinance, the number of Commissioners, and the establishment of
terms of office. Several sections of the Zoning Ordinance outline procedures and
responsibilities of the Planning Commission in reviewing land use matters. However,
provisions related to Planning Commission powers, duties, roles, and responsibilities are
limited and should be further detailed.
RReeccoommmmeenndd ccoonnssoolliiddaattiinngg sseeccttiioonnss aapppplliiccaabbllee ttoo tthhee PPllaannnniinngg CCoommmmiissssiioonn iinnttoo aa
ssiinngguullaarr aaddmmiinniissttrraattiivvee sseeccttiioonn.. RReeccoommmmeenndd iinnccoorrppoorraattiinngg aaddddiittiioonnaall llaanngguuaaggee oouuttlliinniinngg
PPllaannnniinngg CCoommmmiissssiioonn ppoowweerrss,, dduuttiieess,, rroolleess,, aanndd rreessppoonnssiibbiilliittiieess,, aanndd eeiitthheerr rreeffeerreenncciinngg
tthhee aapppplliiccaabbllee sseeccttiioonnss ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa oorr iinnccoorrppoorraattiinngg llaanngguuaaggee vveerrbbaattiimm ttoo
ssttrreennggtthheenn tthhee sseeccttiioonn..
16. 2223 – 2232 The Comprehensive
Plan
N/A N/A §15.2-2223 et. seq. regulates the requirements and provisions for comprehensive plans
only. These Code of Virginia sections are not relevant to this diagnostic but are included
here for transparency – and to highlight a full list of sections provided in Chapter 22 of
the Code of Virginia.
17. 2233 – 2238 The Official Map N/A N/A §15.2-2233 et. seq. regulates the requirements for a locality’s Official Map. These
sections grant planning commissions the authority to request a map be made that shows
streets, waterways, and public spaces. These sections apply to localities that do not have
a Zoning Ordinance, thus no zoning maps.
This section does not apply to Pittsylvania County and therefore inclusion is not required.
18. 2239 Capital Improvement
Plan
N/A N/A §15.2-2239 authorizes a planning commission to prepare a CIP based on a locality’s
Comprehensive Plan. Inclusion of this section is not applicable to the Zoning Ordinance;
however, it is listed here as it is another important land use tool for the County to utilize.
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 77 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
19. 2240 – 2279 Land Subdivision and
Development
N/A N/A §15.2-2240 et. seq. of the Code of Virginia regulates the orderly subdivision of land.
Every locality must have a subdivision ordinance and ensure the orderly subdivision of
land.
Several of these Code of Virginia sections are also relevant to the Zoning Ordinance and
are assessed below. All other Code Sections of the Land Subdivision and Development
section of the Code of Virginia are related to the County’s Subdivision Ordinance, which
is a standalone ordinance outside of the Zoning Ordinance.
20. 2246 Site plans submitted in
accordance with
Zoning Ordinance
Partial Article V,
Division 4, Site
Development
Plans
35-741
Article V, Division 4, Site Development Plans addresses requirements for site
development plans. While a purpose statement is included, the statement is broad in
nature and does not explicitly state that the purpose of site development plan
requirements is to ensure full compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aammeennddiinngg tthhee eexxiissttiinngg ppuurrppoossee ssttaatteemmeenntt ttoo rreeffeerreennccee ccoommpplliiaannccee wwiitthh
tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee aanndd iinncclluuddee rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22224466..
21. 2258 Site plan requirements
for submission for
approval
No No reference The Code of Virginia §15.2-2258 requires that a site plan include the locations of
drainage districts, dam break zones, graves/burial sites, and areas of joint locality
control.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg tthheessee pprroovviissiioonnss aass rreeqquuiirreedd ccoommppoonneennttss ooff aannyy SSiittee
DDeevveellooppmmeenntt PPllaann..
22. 2259 Local planning
commission or other
agent to act on plat,
site plan, or plan of
development
Yes 35-751
35-854
The Code of Virginia §15.2-2259 establishes a required timeline – 60 days – for the
review and approval or disapproval of site plans.
Section 35-751 and Section 35-854 give the Planning Commission the responsibility of
reviewing a site development plan and issuing either approval or disapproval within 45
days of receipt. The Zoning Ordinance is more stringent than the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aammeennddiinngg tthhee oorrddiinnaannccee ttoo aallllooww rreevviieeww aanndd iissssuuaannccee ooff eeiitthheerr aapppprroovvaall oorr
ddiissaapppprroovvaall wwiitthhiinn 6600 ddaayyss ooff rreecceeiipptt,, wwhhiicchh iiss tthhee mmaaxxiimmuumm ttiimmeeffrraammee ppeerrmmiitttteedd bbyy
tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 28 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 77 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
19. 2240 – 2279 Land Subdivision and
Development
N/A N/A §15.2-2240 et. seq. of the Code of Virginia regulates the orderly subdivision of land.
Every locality must have a subdivision ordinance and ensure the orderly subdivision of
land.
Several of these Code of Virginia sections are also relevant to the Zoning Ordinance and
are assessed below. All other Code Sections of the Land Subdivision and Development
section of the Code of Virginia are related to the County’s Subdivision Ordinance, which
is a standalone ordinance outside of the Zoning Ordinance.
20. 2246 Site plans submitted in
accordance with
Zoning Ordinance
Partial Article V,
Division 4, Site
Development
Plans
35-741
Article V, Division 4, Site Development Plans addresses requirements for site
development plans. While a purpose statement is included, the statement is broad in
nature and does not explicitly state that the purpose of site development plan
requirements is to ensure full compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aammeennddiinngg tthhee eexxiissttiinngg ppuurrppoossee ssttaatteemmeenntt ttoo rreeffeerreennccee ccoommpplliiaannccee wwiitthh
tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee aanndd iinncclluuddee rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22224466..
21. 2258 Site plan requirements
for submission for
approval
No No reference The Code of Virginia §15.2-2258 requires that a site plan include the locations of
drainage districts, dam break zones, graves/burial sites, and areas of joint locality
control.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg tthheessee pprroovviissiioonnss aass rreeqquuiirreedd ccoommppoonneennttss ooff aannyy SSiittee
DDeevveellooppmmeenntt PPllaann..
22. 2259 Local planning
commission or other
agent to act on plat,
site plan, or plan of
development
Yes 35-751
35-854
The Code of Virginia §15.2-2259 establishes a required timeline – 60 days – for the
review and approval or disapproval of site plans.
Section 35-751 and Section 35-854 give the Planning Commission the responsibility of
reviewing a site development plan and issuing either approval or disapproval within 45
days of receipt. The Zoning Ordinance is more stringent than the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aammeennddiinngg tthhee oorrddiinnaannccee ttoo aallllooww rreevviieeww aanndd iissssuuaannccee ooff eeiitthheerr aapppprroovvaall oorr
ddiissaapppprroovvaall wwiitthhiinn 6600 ddaayyss ooff rreecceeiipptt,, wwhhiicchh iiss tthhee mmaaxxiimmuumm ttiimmeeffrraammee ppeerrmmiitttteedd bbyy
tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 29 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 88 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
23. 2261 Recorded plats or final
site plans to be valid
for not less than five
years
No 35-769
35-780
The Code of Virginia requires that final site plans be valid for not less than five years.
One or more reasonable extensions may be granted by the Planning Commission or
another agent.
Section 35-769 and 35-780 state that approval of a site development plan expires after
eighteen months of approval unless actual construction has commenced. The Zoning
Ordinance therefore does not comply with this section of the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aammeennddiinngg tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee ttoo aallllooww ffiinnaall ssiittee ddeevveellooppmmeenntt ppllaannss ttoo
bbee vvaalliidd ffoorr uupp ttoo ffiivvee yyeeaarrss,, oorr lloonnggeerr aass ddeetteerrmmiinneedd ttoo bbee rreeaassoonnaabbllee bbyy tthhee ZZoonniinngg
AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr,, aanndd iinncclluuddee rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22226611..
24. 2261.1 Recorded plat or final
site plans; conflicting
zoning conditions
No No reference This section of the Code of Virginia provides that if approval is granted for a plan that
is not in accordance with the rezoning, the final site plan/plat governs. Thus, it is
imperative that localities review the final site plan/plat for compliance with the
rezoning in addition to the Zoning Ordinance.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg aa ssttaatteemmeenntt rreeffeerreenncciinngg tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa.
25. 2270 Vacation of interests
granted to a locality as
a condition of site plan
approval
No No reference This section of the Code of Virginia provides two methods that allow a locality to
vacate any interest in streets, alleys, easements for public rights of passage,
easements for drainage, and easements for a public utility that were granted as a
condition of the approval of a site plan.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg iinn tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee oonnee ooff tthhee mmeetthhooddss lliisstteedd iinn tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn
ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa ffoorr tthhee vvaaccaattiioonn ooff iinntteerreessttss..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 30 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 99 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
26. 2280 Zoning general
description
Yes 35-1 This section of the Code of Virginia allows for localities to regulate items such as the use
of structures, buildings, and land; size, height, area, etc. of buildings; and the area of
land, water, and air space.
Section 35-1 establishes the authority of the County to establish zoning, using language
verbatim from §15.2-2280.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
27. 2281 Zoning jurisdiction of
county and
incorporation
Yes 35-45
35-46
This section of the Code of Virginia states that the governing body of a county shall have
jurisdiction over any unincorporated areas.
Section 35-45 and Section 35-46 state that the entire unincorporated areas of all County
magisterial districts – including geographic features such as rivers and lakes – be
governed by the Zoning Ordinance and be included in the zoning districts established
within the Ordinance.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
28. 2282 Uniformity of
regulations
Yes 35-15 Section 35-15 explicitly states that the regulations set by the Zoning Ordinance within
each district shall apply uniformly to each class or kind of structure or land.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
29. 2283 Purpose of zoning,
mandatory provisions:
(Line items 30 – 41)
Partial 35-3 Section 35-3 lists the purpose of zoning and mandatory provisions and incorporates
some of its language verbatim from the Code of Virginia. However, several items listed
in the Code of Virginia are omitted, therefore only achieving partial compliance with the
Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn aass oouuttlliinneedd iinn lliinnee iitteemmss 3300 tthhrroouugghh 4411.. RReeccoommmmeenndd
iinncclluuddiinngg rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22228833 aass aa bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 31 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1100 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
30. i. Light, air, convenience
of access, fire, flood,
impounding structure
failure, crime
Partial 35-3 Impounding structure failure and crime are omitted from the list included in the Zoning
Ordinance.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg ttoo iinncclluuddee rreeffeerreenncceess ttoo iimmppoouunnddiinngg ssttrruuccttuurree ffaaiilluurree aanndd ccrriimmee
aass ssttaatteedd iinn §§1155..22--22228833..ii..
31. ii. Reduction of street
congestion
Yes 35-3 Incorporated through use of verbatim language.
32. iii. Convenient, attractive,
harmonious
community
Yes 35-3 Incorporated through use of verbatim language.
33. iv. Adequate police & fire
protection, evacuation,
defense,
transportation, water,
sewage, flood
protection, schools,
parks, forests,
playgrounds,
recreation facilities,
airports
Yes 35-3 Incorporated through use of verbatim language.
34. v. Protection of historic
areas and working
waterfront
development areas
Partial 35-3 Working waterfront development areas is omitted from this list, although these areas
may be found around Smith Mountain Lake and Leesville Lake.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg ttoo iinncclluuddee rreeffeerreenncceess ttoo wwoorrkkiinngg wwaatteerrffrroonntt ddeevveellooppmmeenntt aarreeaass
aass ssttaatteedd iinn §§1155..22--22228833..vv,, iiff tthhee CCoouunnttyy hhaass aarreeaass tthheeyy ddeessiirree ttoo ddeessiiggnnaattee aass wwoorrkkiinngg
wwaatteerrffrroonntt ddeevveellooppmmeenntt aarreeaass..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 32 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1111 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
35. vi Protect against
overcrowding, undue
density, light and air
obstruction, danger in
transportation, public
safety
Yes 35-3 Incorporated through use of verbatim language.
36. vii. Economic
development,
employment, tax base
Yes 35-3 Incorporated through use of verbatim language.
37. viii. Ag/Forestal and natural
environment protection
Yes 35-3 Incorporated through use of verbatim language.
38. ix. Protect airports, U.S.
government and
military facilities
Partial 35-3 U.S. government and military facilities are omitted from this list, although Pittsylvania
County currently does not have federal or military facilities.
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy ddooeess nnoott ccuurrrreennttllyy hhaavvee aa mmiilliittaarryy bbaassee oorr iinnssttaallllaattiioonn;; tthheerreeffoorree,, tthhiiss
llaanngguuaaggee iiss nnoott nneecceessssaarryy ttoo iinncclluuddee iinn tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee.. HHoowweevveerr,, tthhee ZZoonniinngg
AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr sshhoouulldd rreemmaaiinn aawwaarree ooff tthhiiss pprroovviissiioonn aanndd uuppddaattee aaccccoorrddiinnggllyy,, sshhoouulldd aa
mmiilliittaarryy bbaassee oorr iinnssttaallllaattiioonn eevveerr bbee eessttaabblliisshheedd wwiitthhiinn tthhee CCoouunnttyy.. SSeeee lliinnee iitteemm 4400..
39. x. Create and preserve
affordable housing
Yes 35-3 Incorporated; language is slightly modified from that of §15.2-2283.x.
40. xi. Provide against
encroachment on
military bases
No No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not incorporate this section.
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy ddooeess nnoott ccuurrrreennttllyy hhaavvee aa mmiilliittaarryy bbaassee oorr iinnssttaallllaattiioonn,, tthhiiss llaanngguuaaggee
iiss nnoott nneecceessssaarryy ttoo iinncclluuddee iinn tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee.. HHoowweevveerr,, tthhee ZZoonniinngg AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr
sshhoouulldd rreemmaaiinn aawwaarree ooff tthhiiss pprroovviissiioonn aanndd uuppddaattee aaccccoorrddiinnggllyy,, sshhoouulldd aa mmiilliittaarryy bbaassee oorr
iinnssttaallllaattiioonn bbee eessttaabblliisshheedd wwiitthhiinn oorr aaddjjaacceenntt ttoo tthhee CCoouunnttyy.. SSeeee lliinnee iitteemm 3388..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 33 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1122 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
41. xii. Reasonable
modifications in
accordance with the
Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990
(42 U.S.C. § 12131 et
seq.) or state and
federal fair housing
laws, as applicable
No No reference In 2018, this provision was added to the Code of Virginia and requires the locality to
consider the need for reasonable modifications in accordance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act or state and federal fair housing laws when preparing a Zoning Ordinance.
The Zoning Ordinance does not reference the American Disabilities Act of 1990.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg ttoo iinncclluuddee llaanngguuaaggee aass ssttaatteedd iinn §§1155..22--22228833..xxiiii..
42. 2283.1 Sexual offender
treatment services
prohibition in
residential area
Yes No reference This use is not listed in the Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance; therefore, it is not
permitted.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
43. 2284 Matters to be
considered when
drawing zoning maps
and ordinances
Yes 35-4 Section 35-4 achieves compliance with the Code of Virginia through incorporating direct
language from §15.2-2284.
CCoonnssiiddeerraattiioonn ccaann bbee ggiivveenn ttoo iinncclluuddiinngg aa cciittaattiioonn ttoo §§1155..22--22228844 aass aa bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee aanndd
mmeeaannss ooff ffuurrtthheerr ssttrreennggtthheenniinngg tthhee sseeccttiioonn..
44. 2285 Ordinance and map
development, adoption
- process
Yes 35-803
35-804
35-807
35-810
35-812
35-813
This section of the Code of Virginia provides the general process for the creation of, and
amendments to, Zoning Ordinances.
Sections 35-803, 35-804, 35-807, 35-810, 35-812, and 35-813 of the Pittsylvania County
Zoning Ordinance provide for amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, as well as
procedures for rezonings and zoning map amendments. However, several references to
the Code of Virginia included in this section are outdated and should be updated. The
Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd rreemmoovviinngg aannyy oouuttddaatteedd rreeffeerreenncceess ttoo tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa aanndd uuppddaattiinngg
aaccccoorrddiinnggllyy.. RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg ttiimmeeffrraammeess ttoo mmaattcchh tthhoossee iiddeennttiiffiieedd iinn tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn
ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 34 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1133 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
45. 2286
(A)
Permitted provisions in
Zoning Ordinances.
(Line items 46 – 61)
- - This section of the Code of Virginia provides ooppttiioonnaall provisions. Pittsylvania County
should consider the provisions listed below for inclusion in the updated ordinance, if not
included already. See lines 46 through 61 for further detail.
46. 1. Variances and special
exceptions
Optional,
Included
35-700
35-712
35-713
35-714
35-849
35-851
35-852
Sections 35-700 through 35-714 outline procedures for application and review of special
use permits. Sections 35-849, 35-851, and 35-852 outline procedures for application and
review of variances. Both processes are reviewed and decided upon by the Pittsylvania
County Board of Zoning Appeals.
The Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance uses “special use permit” and “special
exception permit” interchangeably; this could cause confusion for applicants who are
unfamiliar with land use processes and is not considered to be a best practice.
RReeccoommmmeenndd cchhoooossiinngg ““ssppeecciiaall uussee ppeerrmmiitt”” ffoorr uussaaggee iinn tthhee oorrddiinnaannccee –– aass tthhiiss iiss uusseedd
mmoorree ffrreeqquueennttllyy –– aanndd aammeennddiinngg aaccccoorrddiinnggllyy.. RReeccoommmmeenndd eennssuurriinngg tthhaatt tthhee BBooaarrdd ooff
ZZoonniinngg AAppppeeaallss iiss rreevviieewwiinngg pprrooppoosseedd cchhaannggeess ttoo tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee aanndd rreemmaaiinniinngg
iinnvvoollvveedd iinn tthhee pprroocceessss..
47. 2. Annexation or
boundary adjustment
provision
Optional,
Not Included
N/A The Zoning Ordinance does not include a statement that relates to this provision.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg tthhiiss pprroovviissiioonn ttoo aallllooww tthhee tteemmppoorraarryy aapppplliiccaattiioonn ooff tthhee oorrddiinnaannccee
ttoo aannyy pprrooppeerrttyy ccoommiinngg iinnttoo tthhee tteerrrriittoorriiaall jjuurriissddiiccttiioonn ooff PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy –– bbyy
aannnneexxaattiioonn oorr ootthheerrwwiissee..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 35 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1144 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
48. 3. Governing body special
exception permits;
affordable housing
special exception
provisions
Optional,
Included
35-849
35-854
Various
Section 35-854 grant the power of reviewing and recommending a decision on special
use permits to the Pittsylvania County Planning Commission. Section 35-849 grants the
power to hear and issue a final decision upon special use permits to the Pittsylvania
County Board of Zoning Appeals. Regulations for each zoning district provide a list of
uses that shall only be permitted through issuance of a special use permit.
While affordable housing special exception provisions are not required to be included in
the Zoning Ordinance, Pittsylvania County should be aware of this Code section and
carefully evaluate the potential impacts of any conditions associated with any proposed
affordable housing development. If desired by the County, language from this section of
the Code of Virginia could be incorporated into the Zoning Ordinance.
49. 4. Zoning administrator
authorities, provisions,
processes
Optional,
Partially
Included
35-685
35-686
35-689
Sections 35-685, 35-686, and 35-689 address the responsibilities of the Zoning
Administrator – outlining appointment, enforcement powers, and interpretation and
determination responsibilities.
The Zoning Ordinance currently does not authorize the Zoning Administrator to grant a
modification and reserves this to variance review by the Board of Zoning Appeals. The
Zoning Ordinance also does not provide a period in which notices of violation can be
appealed (30 days is required with exceptions as outlined under this section).
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy sshhoouulldd iinnccoorrppoorraattee aapppprroopprriiaattee aappppeeaall ppeerriiooddss ffoorr nnoottiicceess ooff
vviioollaattiioonn.. TThhee CCoouunnttyy sshhoouulldd aallssoo ccoonnssiiddeerr wwhheetthheerr tthheerree aarree aannyy zzoonniinngg oorrddiinnaannccee
mmooddiiffiiccaattiioonnss tthhaatt sshhoouulldd bbee iissssuueedd aaddmmiinniissttrraattiivveellyy rraatthheerr tthhaann bbyy vvaarriiaannccee..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 36 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1155 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
50. 5. Imposition of penalties
- misdemeanor fines
Optional,
Included
35-877 The Zoning Ordinance provides for misdemeanor fines for all zoning violations.
AAss aa bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee,, ccoonnssiiddeerr iinnttrroodduucciinngg tthhee uussee ooff cciivviill ppeennaallttiieess ffoorr zzoonniinngg vviioollaattiioonnss,,
aanndd ccoonnssoolliiddaattiinngg cciivviill ppeennaallttiieess aanndd mmiissddeemmeeaannoorr ppeennaallttiieess iinnttoo aa ssiinnggllee sseeccttiioonn aanndd
iinncclluuddiinngg aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa sseeccttiioonnss.. RReeccoommmmeenndd uussiinngg cciivviill ppeennaallttiieess
aass aa ffiirrsstt lliinnee ooff ddeeffeennssee,, aanndd tthheenn mmoovviinngg ttoo mmiissddeemmeeaannoorrss aass aapppprroopprriiaattee ((sseeee aallssoo lliinnee
iitteemm 1111)).. AAddddiittiioonnaallllyy,, tthhee mmiinniimmuumm ppeennaallttyy ffoorr mmiissddeemmeeaannoorrss iiss ccuurrrreennttllyy oonnllyy $$1100..0000
aanndd ccaann bbee iinnccrreeaasseedd.. RReeccoommmmeenndd iinnccrreeaassiinngg tthhee mmiinniimmuumm ppeennaallttyy ffoorr mmiissddeemmeeaannoorr
vviioollaattiioonnss ttoo $$11,,000000..0000 oonn tthhee iinniittiiaall ooffffeennssee aanndd iinnccrreeaassiinngg oovveerr ttiimmee aass oouuttlliinneedd iinn tthhiiss
sseeccttiioonn ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa.. LLaanngguuaaggee rreeggaarrddiinngg mmoonneettaarryy aammoouunnttss ffoorr ffiinneess ccaann bbee
iinncclluuddeedd vveerrbbaattiimm iiff ddeessiirreedd..
51. 6. Collection of fees Optional,
Included
35-866 Section 35-866 includes an administrative fee structure. Fees are required to cover costs
incurred incidental to the reporting and processing of land use applications. Fees for
rezonings, variances, various types of plan review, special use permits, appeals, and
airport safety zoning clearance are included.
RReeccoommmmeenndd rreemmoovviinngg tthhee eexxiissttiinngg aaddmmiinniissttrraattiivvee ffeeee ssttrruuccttuurree ffrroomm tthhee ZZoonniinngg
OOrrddiinnaannccee aanndd aaddooppttiinngg aa sseeppaarraattee oorrddiinnaannccee ssttaattiinngg aallll CCoouunnttyy ffeeeess,, iinncclluuddiinngg tthhoossee
aassssoocciiaatteedd wwiitthh zzoonniinngg.. TThhiiss aalllloowwss eeaassee ooff rreevviieeww aanndd ffaacciilliittaattiioonn ooff ppuubblliicc hheeaarriinnggss
dduurriinngg aannnnuuaall bbuuddggeettiinngg pprroocceesssseess..
52. 7. Zoning Ordinance
amendment timelines
and process
Optional,
Included
35-806
35-807
Sections 35-806 and 35-807 outline the process of amendments to the Zoning Ordinance
as well as who can initiate an amendment. Section 35-807 states that the Board of
Supervisors has 60 days from the time of public hearing to make a decision on the
proposed zoning amendment. The Code of Virginia permits up to 12 months to make a
decision on a proposed zoning amendment.
The Zoning Ordinance incorporates this section of the Code of Virginia. HHoowweevveerr,,
rreeccoommmmeenndd aammeennddiinngg ttoo ppeerrmmiitt tthhee BBooaarrdd ooff SSuuppeerrvviissoorrss uupp ttoo 1122 mmoonntthhss ffrroomm tthhee
ttiimmee ooff ppuubblliicc hheeaarriinngg ttoo mmaakkee aa ddeecciissiioonn oonn aa pprrooppoosseedd zzoonniinngg aammeennddmmeenntt,, iinn
aaccccoorrddaannccee wwiitthh tthhee ttiimmeeffrraammee eessttaabblliisshheedd iinn tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 37 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1166 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
53. 8. Plan of development
submission and
approval prior to
issuance of building
permits
Optional,
Included
35-701
35-741 through
35-753
Section 35-701 states that no building permit or zoning permit shall be issued without a
site development plan approved by the Planning Commission. Additionally, sections 35-
741 through 35-753 detail the requirements of site development plans. Section 35-752
outlines approval of plans without the Planning Commission, but Zoning Administrator
approval.
The Zoning Ordinance incorporates this section of the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd eeddiittiinngg tteexxtt ffoorr ccoonnssiisstteennccyy aanndd ccllaarriittyy ooff pprroocceesssseess aanndd aapppprroovvaallss..
54. 9. Mixed use or PUD
developments
Optional,
Included
Article III,
Division 7,
Residential
Planned Unit
Development
District
Residential Planned Unit Developments are provided for in Article III, Division 7. Mixed-
use developments are not included as a zoning district.
The Zoning Ordinance partially incorporates this section of the Code of Virginia.
CCoonnssiiddeerr eessttaabblliisshhiinngg aa MMiixxeedd UUssee DDiissttrriicctt tthhaatt ppeerrmmiittss aa mmiixx ooff rreessiiddeennttiiaall aanndd llooww--
iinntteennssiittyy ccoommmmeerrcciiaall uusseess.. TThhiiss hheellppss ffuurrtthheerr iinncceennttiivviizzee ddiiffffeerreenntt ttyyppeess ooff PPllaannnneedd UUnniitt
DDeevveellooppmmeennttss,, hheellppiinngg eennssuurree sseerrvviicceess ffoorr vviibbrraanntt nneeiigghhbboorrhhooooddss..
55. 10. Incentive zoning
administration
Optional,
Not Included
No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not incorporate this section of the Code of Virginia.
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy sshhoouulldd ddeetteerrmmiinnee wwhheetthheerr tthhee iinnttrroodduuccttiioonn ooff iinncceennttiivvee zzoonniinngg
wwoouulldd bbee aann aapppprroopprriiaattee mmeeaannss ooff pprroommoottiinngg aaffffoorrddaabbllee hhoouussiinngg ddeevveellooppmmeenntt wwiitthhiinn
tthhee CCoouunnttyy..
56. 11. Downzoning tax credit Optional,
Not Included
No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not incorporate this section of the Code of Virginia.
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy sshhoouulldd ccoonnssiiddeerr wwhheetthheerr iitt wwoouulldd bbee aapppprroopprriiaattee ttoo iinnttrroodduuccee
pprroovviissiioonnss aalllloowwiinngg tthhee CCoouunnttyy ttoo eenntteerr iinnttoo aa vvoolluunnttaarryy aaggrreeeemmeenntt tthhaatt wwoouulldd pprroovviiddee
tthhee oowwnneerr ooff pprrooppeerrttyy bbeeiinngg ddoowwnnzzoonneedd wwiitthh ttaaxx ccrreeddiittss,, aalltthhoouugghh tthhiiss iiss nnoott aa ccoommmmoonn
bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 38 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1177 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
57. 12. Environmental site
assessments and
review
Optional,
Not Included
No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not incorporate this section of the Code of Virginia.
AAss aa bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee,, rreeccoommmmeenndd iinnttrroodduucciinngg rreeqquuiirreemmeennttss ffoorr ssiittee aasssseessssmmeennttss iinn aarreeaass
wwhheerree ccuurrrreenntt oorr hhiissttoorriicc ooppeerraattiioonnss aarree kknnoowwnn oorr ssuussppeecctteedd ttoo hhaavvee uusseedd hhaazzaarrddoouuss
ssuubbssttaanncceess oorr ppeettrroolleeuumm pprroodduuccttss dduurriinngg oonnssiittee ooppeerraattiioonnss..
58. 13. Safety standards for
solar panels and
battery technologies
Optional,
Included
35-141(F) All large and utility scale solar energy facilities are required to have components with a
UL safety listing or equivalent, as well as comply with all applicable state and federal
regulatory laws.
The Zoning Ordinance incorporates this section of the Code of Virginia.
59. 14. Environmental
disclosure and
remediation
Optional,
Not Included
No reference This requirement is typically applicable for industrial redevelopment projects.
IIff PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy hhaass aannyy bbrroowwnnffiieelldd ssiitteess,, PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy mmaayy wwiisshh ttoo ccoonnssiiddeerr
iinnccoorrppoorraattiinngg tthhiiss ooppttiioonnaall pprroovviissiioonn.
60. 15. Single-family
residential occupancy
regulations
Optional,
Partially
Included
35-40 A single-family dwelling is defined by the Zoning Ordinance as a dwelling arranged or
designed to be occupied by one family. However, the Zoning Ordinance does not include
a definition of family.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinnttrroodduucciinngg aa ddeeffiinniittiioonn ooff ““ffaammiillyy””..
61. 16. Zoning inspection
warrants
Optional,
Not Included
No reference It is a best practice to include this provision, as it allows a locality to acquire a warrant if
there is a suspected Zoning Ordinance violation.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddooppttiinngg tthhiiss pprroovviissiioonn aass ppeerrmmiitttteedd iinn tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
62. 2286
(B)
Payment of
outstanding debt,
taxes, fees
Optional,
Not Included
No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not include language requiring a property owner to provide
satisfactory evidence that any delinquent charges or fees have been paid in full.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddooppttiinngg tthhiiss pprroovviissiioonn aass pprroovviiddeedd ffoorr iinn tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 39 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1188 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
63. 2286.1 Open space provision,
cluster dwellings
N/A N/A This Code of Virginia section only applies to localities with growth rates of 10%, but not
to localities with population densities greater than 2,000 per square mile. According to
data from the 2020 U.S. Census, Pittsylvania County’s population was 60,501 – a decline
from the 2010 population of 63,506. Therefore, this section of the Code of Virginia does
not apply to Pittsylvania County. However, the County should be aware of this section
of the Code of Virginia and be prepared to adopt provisions for cluster dwellings, should
a growth rate exceed 10% in future years.
64. 2287 Optional requirement
regarding property
interest of local
officials
Optional,
Not Included
No Reference The Zoning Ordinance does not include language about conflicts of interest for any local
officials or governing body.
CCoonnssiiddeerr aaddooppttiinngg tthhiiss ooppttiioonnaall pprroovviissiioonn aass oouuttlliinneedd iinn tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa ttoo ccllaarriiffyy
aanndd ttoo iinnccrreeaassee ttrraannssppaarreennccyy iinn tthhee aapppplliiccaattiioonn aanndd rreevviieeww pprroocceessss..
65. 2287.1 Disclosures in land use
proceedings
N/A N/A This section of the Code of Virginia only applies to Loudoun County.
66. 2288 Localities may not
require special
exception permits for
certain agriculture
activities
Yes 35-179
This section of the Code of Virginia requires any production, agriculture, or silviculture
activity not be regulated through a conditional use or special exception in an area that
is zoned as an agricultural district or classification.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
67. 2288.01 Localities may not
require special
exception permits for
small biomass
conversion
Yes No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not include references to “biomass” or “small biomass
conversion”. The Zoning Ordinance therefore complies with this section of the Code of
Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg ssmmaallll bbiioommaassss ccoonnvveerrssiioonn aass aa bbyy--rriigghhtt uussee iinn aaggrriiccuullttuurraall ((AA--11))
wwiitthh aapppprroopprriiaattee uussee ssttaannddaarrddss..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 40 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 1199 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
68. 2288.1 Localities may not
require special
exception permits for
permitted residential
use
Yes No reference This section of the Code of Virginia states that the County cannot require a residential
development adhering to the use, density, and height permitted by right under the
Zoning Ordinance to obtain a special use permit as a condition of approval.
The Zoning Ordinance does not require special use permits for residential uses as a
condition to site plan, plan of development, or building permit approval. The Zoning
Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
69. 2288.2 Localities may not
require special
exception permits for
certain temporary
structures (tents)
Yes No reference This section of the Code of Virginia states that localities may not require a special use
permit for a tent on private property that is either intended to be used as a temporary
structure for three days or less or intended to be used for a private event such as a
wedding or estate sale.
The Zoning Ordinance includes temporary uses as uses permitted with a special use
permit in all zoning districts. However, these uses are referenced to include temporary
buildings and construction activity. Tents are not specifically referenced. Additionally,
the Zoning Ordinance does not require special exceptions or conditional / special use
permits for temporary structures; temporary structures are not mentioned directly as a
permitted use.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
70. 2288.3 Localities may not
unduly regulate farm
wineries
Yes No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not provide regulations or standards for farm wineries; thus,
it is an implied agricultural use and the Ordinance therefore does not unduly regulate
them. It should be noted that while the Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of
the Code of Virginia, the Zoning Ordinance can still offer farm winery as a use.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg ffaarrmm wwiinneerryy aass aa ppeerrmmiitttteedd uussee..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 41 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2200 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
71. 2288.3:1 Limited brewery
license; local regulation
of certain activities.
Yes No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not provide regulations or standards for breweries; thus, it
does not unduly regulate them. While the Zoning Ordinance complies with this section
of the Code of Virginia, brewery and associated uses such as a microbrewery can still be
offered as uses in the Zoning Ordinance.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg bbrreewweerryy aanndd mmiiccrroobbrreewweerryy aass ppeerrmmiitttteedd uusseess..
72. 2288.3:2 Limited distiller's
license; local regulation
of certain activities.
Yes No reference This section of the Code of Virginia states that local restrictions upon activities of legally
licensed distilleries to market and sell their products shall be reasonable and shall
consider the economic impact on such activities. The Zoning Ordinance does not provide
regulations or standards for distilleries; thus, it does not unduly regulate them. It should
be noted that while the Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of
Virginia, the Zoning Ordinance can still offer micro-distilleries and/or distilleries as a use.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg mmiiccrroo--ddiissttiilllleerriieess aass ppeerrmmiitttteedd uusseess..
73. 2288.4 Extension of expiration
dates for special use
permits
N/A N/A This section of the Code of Virginia expired in 2011 and therefore does not apply to the
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance.
74. 2288.5 Definition and uses of
cemetery
Partial 35-178
35-365
35-383
35-530
35-531
The Zoning Ordinance permits cemeteries through Special Use Permits in the
Conservation District and permits cemeteries by-right in four districts. However, the
Zoning Ordinance does not provide a definition of “cemetery”.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg aa ddeeffiinniittiioonn ooff ““cceemmeetteerryy..””
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 42 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2211 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
75. 2288.6 Agricultural operations;
local regulation of
certain activities.
Partial 35-178
35-189
The Zoning Ordinance does not regulate or provide use standards for most agricultural
activities. Section 35-189 provides requirements for intensive livestock, dairy and
poultry facilities. However, the Zoning Ordinance states that the intent of additional
regulations is to encourage orderly growth and economic development within the
agriculture industry, and regulations seem reasonable as they seek to limit adverse
impacts of more intensive, large-scale agricultural production. The Zoning Ordinance
complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
Agritourism is not included in the Zoning Ordinance. Agritourism uses are becoming
increasingly common throughout Virginia and the Code of Virginia states that the use
must be allowed in agricultural districts. RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg aa ddeeffiinniittiioonn ooff
““aaggrriittoouurriissmm”” aanndd ppeerrmmiittttiinngg aaggrriittoouurriissmm aass aa bbyy--rriigghhtt uussee.. CCeerrttaaiinn aassppeeccttss ccaann bbee
rreegguullaatteedd tthhrroouugghh ssttaannddaarrddss bbaasseedd oonn hheeaalltthh,, ssaaffeettyy,, aanndd wweellffaarree..
76. 2288.7 Solar facilities; local
regulation
Yes 35-141 This section of the Code of Virginia speaks to allowing small-scale solar facilities, which
are typically mounted over a building, parking lot, or other previously disturbed areas
and have a disturbance of less than two acres.
Section 35-141 permits roof mounted small solar energy facilities as permitted uses in
all zoning districts, provided that the small solar energy facility does not exceed the
setback and height requirements of the underlying zoning district.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 43 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2222 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
77. 2288.8 Special exceptions for
solar photovoltaic
projects
Yes 35-141(C) This section of the Code of Virginia permits localities to issue special exception permits
for solar energy facilities or energy storage projects with the inclusion of reasonable
regulations and provisions. The Code of Virginia also permits localities to grant a
condition including either substantial cash payments for construction of substantial
public improvements or dedication of real property of substantial value, provided that
the conditions are reasonably related to the project.
Section 35-141(C) of the Zoning Ordinance allows utility scale solar energy facilities
through a special use permit process. The Zoning Ordinance does not address energy
storage facilities or conditions related to either the dedication of real property. Cash
proffers are not accepted by Pittsylvania County.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg llaanngguuaaggee rreellaattiinngg ttoo eenneerrggyy ssttoorraaggee ffaacciilliittiieess.. SSeeee lliinnee iitteemm 112277..
78. 2289 Optional requirement
of disclosure of real
parties in interest for
special exception
permits
Optional,
Not included
No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not include regulations that require disclosure of interest or
equity for use permits, re-zoning, or variances.
TThhiiss iiss aa rreeccoommmmeennddeedd bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee tthhaatt PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy mmaayy wwiisshh ttoo ccoonnssiiddeerr
aaddddiinngg iinnttoo tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee..
79. 2290 Manufactured housing
uniformity (by-right in
Ag areas)
Yes 35-178 This section of the Code of Virginia requires that the placement of manufactured houses
on a permanent foundation and on individual lots shall be permitted in all agricultural
districts, subject to development standards.
The Zoning Ordinance permits manufactured housing and mobile homes by-right in
agriculture, provided that the lot size is 20,000 square feet or greater. As the minimum
lot size requirement applies to all other uses in the agricultural district, the requirement
is compliant with the Code of Virginia. The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section
of the Code of Virginia.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 44 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2233 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
80. 2291 Assisted living and
group homes of 8 or
fewer residents
No 35-267
Supplementary
Definitions to
the Pittsylvania
County Zoning
Ordinance
This section of the Code of Virginia requires that group homes and assisted living
facilities of eight or fewer residents be permitted the same as single family dwellings.
The Zoning Ordinance only permits group homes in the Residential Combined zoning
district and includes a reference to this section of the Code of Virginia. However, apart
from the Residential Combined zoning district, the included references to and definition
of “group home” do not align with the term as used and defined in the Code of Virginia,
referencing a form of child foster care rather than a residential facility with those with
mental illness or developmental disabilities, as the Code of Virginia defines “group
home”. The Zoning Ordinance does not comply with this section of the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee ttoo ppeerrmmiitt ggrroouupp hhoommeess ooff eeiigghhtt oorr ffeewweerr
rreessiiddeennttss bbyy--rriigghhtt wwhheerree rreessiiddeennttiiaall uusseess aarree ppeerrmmiitttteedd.. RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg tthhee
eexxiissttiinngg ddeeffiinniittiioonn ooff ““ggrroouupp hhoommee”” ttoo mmaattcchh tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa ddeeffiinniittiioonn ooff tthhee tteerrmm..
81. 2292 Zoning
provision/definition
family day home
No No reference This section of the Code of Virginia requires that a family day home serving 1-4 children
be permitted the same as a single family dwelling. The Zoning Ordinance neither includes
a definition for “family day home” nor does it include family day homes as permitted
uses in zoning districts.
The Zoning Ordinance includes “day nursery” and “home occupation, Class 2” as
permitted uses in some districts. These uses could be interpreted to include the type of
use defined as a “family day home” in the Code of Virginia. However, neither “day
nursery” or “home occupation, class 2” are defined in the Zoning Ordinance; therefore,
there is insufficient information to conclude full compliance with the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg aa ddeeffiinniittiioonn ooff ““ffaammiillyy ddaayy hhoommee”” ttoo tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee aanndd
iinncclluuddiinngg ffaammiillyy ddaayy hhoommeess aass aa ppeerrmmiitttteedd wwhheerree rreessiiddeennttiiaall uusseess aarree ppeerrmmiitttteedd..
OOppttiioonnaallllyy,, tthhee CCoouunnttyy ccoouulldd aallssoo ccoonnssiiddeerr aaddmmiinniissttrraattiivvee pprroovviissiioonnss ffoorr ffaammiillyy ddaayy
hhoommeess sseerrvviinngg 55--1122 cchhiillddrreenn aass ppeerrmmiitttteedd uunnddeerr tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 45 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2244 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
82. 2292.1 Provision for
temporary family
health care structure
No No reference This section of the Code of Virginia requires that temporary family health care structures
be permitted by-right on lots zoned for single family detached dwellings. The Zoning
Ordinance neither includes a definition for “temporary family health care structure” nor
does it include temporary family health care structures as permitted uses in zoning
districts.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg aa ddeeffiinniittiioonn ooff ““tteemmppoorraarryy ffaammiillyy hheeaalltthh ccaarree ssttrruuccttuurree”” ttoo tthhee
ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee aanndd iinncclluuddiinngg tteemmppoorraarryy ffaammiillyy hheeaalltthh ccaarree ssttrruuccttuurreess aass aa ppeerrmmiitttteedd
uussee iinn zzoonniinngg ddiissttrriiccttss tthhaatt ppeerrmmiitt ssiinnggllee ffaammiillyy ddeettaacchheedd ddwweelllliinnggss..
83. 2293 Airspace subject to
Zoning Ordinance
No No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not include language that subjects the airspace to the
regulations of the ordinance, though this may be occurring in practice and is implied in
the provisions of the Airport Overlay Zoning District.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinnccoorrppoorraattiinngg llaanngguuaaggee eexxpplliicciittllyy ssttaattiinngg tthhaatt aaiirrssppaaccee iinn tthhee eennttiirreettyy ooff
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy iiss ssuubbjjeecctt ttoo tthhee rreegguullaattiioonnss ooff tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 46 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2255 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
84. 2293.1 Amateur radio antenna
placement
Partial 35-181
35-283
35-297
35-347
35-349
35-366
35-368
35-384
35-387
35-403
35-406
35-531
The Zoning Ordinance neither includes specific language that provides for amateur
radios as a use nor provides standards. “Radio aerials” are exempt from maximum
building height calculations, and “radio and television towers” / “radio and television
transmitters” are permitted with a special use permit in Conservation, Limited Business,
Light Industry, Heavy Industry, and General Business.
This section of the Code of Virginia states that localities that had a population density of
120 persons or less per square mile according to the 1990 United States Census shall not
restrict amateur radio antenna height to less than 200 feet above ground level as
permitted by the Federal Communications Commission or restrict the number of
support structures. At the time of the 1990 U.S. Census, Pittsylvania County had
approximately 57 people per square mile. Therefore, the County should include
language in the Zoning Ordinance addressing tower height. Partial compliance is
currently achieved.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg iinn wwhhiicchh ddiissttrriiccttss,, aanndd wwhhaatt aarreeaass,, aammaatteeuurr rraaddiioo ttoowweerrss aarree ttoo
bbee ppllaacceedd oorr eexxppaannddiinngg ““rraaddiioo aaeerriiaallss”” eexxcceeppttiioonn ttoo iinncclluuddee ““aammaatteeuurr rraaddiioo aanntteennnnaass
aanndd ssuuppppoorrtt ssttrruuccttuurreess”” ttoo bbee ccoonnssiisstteenntt wwiitthh CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa,, aanndd iinncclluuddee aa ddeeffiinniittiioonn..
IInncclluuddee aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22229933..11.. RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg llaanngguuaaggee tthhaatt eexxpplliicciittllyy
aalllloowwss aammaatteeuurr rraaddiioo ttoowweerrss uupp ttoo 220000 fftt.. iinn hheeiigghhtt ffoorr ccoonnssiisstteennccyy wwiitthh tthhee CCooddee ooff
VViirrggiinniiaa..
85. 2293.2 Regulation of
helicopter use
Yes 35-179
35-366
35-383
35-402
The Zoning Ordinance allows heliports as a by-right use in two zoning districts, and allows
heliports through a special use permit in two zoning districts. Additionally, the Zoning
Ordinance bans neither departures or landings for helicopters.
The Zoning Ordinance therefore complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 47 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2266 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
86. 2294 Airport safety
restrictions
Yes Article IV,
Division 4
This section of the Code of Virginia requires that any locality that hosts a licensed airport
or United States government or military air facility, or approach slopes and other safety
zones of a licensed airport shall provide for the regulation of the height of structures and
natural growth. The Code of Virginia allows this to be a standalone ordinance, or through
an overlay district/zone within the Zoning Ordinance.
Article IV, Division 4 of the Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance outlines an Airport
Overlay Zoning District for the purposes of regulating and restricting land development
and the use of property in the vicinity of the Danville Regional Airport. The overlay is
intended to protect the airport and associated aviation activities.
The Zoning Ordinance therefore complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
87. 2295 Optional aircraft noise
attenuation ordinances
Optional,
Not Included
No reference This section of the Code of Virginia provides that a locality may enforce building
regulations relating to the provision and installation of acoustical treatment measures.
Additionally, this section of the Code of Virginia allows a locality to adopt a noise overlay
zone that regulates noise and sounds differently than base districts.
The Zoning Ordinance does not have any aircraft noise attenuation ordinances, or any
overall regulations for noise. The Zoning Ordinance does make several references to
Chapter 41. Noise Control, stating that compliance with all provisions of this ordinance
must be met.
IIff tthhee aaiirrppoorrtt iiss eexxppeerriieenncciinngg eennccrrooaacchhmmeenntt aanndd nnooiissee ccoommppllaaiinnttss ffrroomm rreessiiddeennttiiaall uusseess,,
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy mmaayy ccoonnssiiddeerr wwhheetthheerr aaddddiittiioonnaall nnooiissee rreegguullaattiioonnss aarree nneeeeddeedd aass aa
ccoommppoonneenntt ooff tthhee AAiirrppoorrtt OOvveerrllaayy ZZoonniinngg DDiissttrriicctt..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 48 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2277 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
88. 2295.1 Optional mountain
ridge construction
ordinances
Optional,
Not Included
No reference Pittsylvania County does not include regulations for protected mountain ridges.
However, portions of Smith Mountain likely meet the Code of Virginia definition of a
protected mountain ridge, which is a ridge with (i) an elevation of 2,000 feet or more
and (ii) an elevation of 500 feet or more above the elevation of an adjacent valley floor.
IIff PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy ddooeess hhaavvee pprrootteecctteedd mmoouunnttaaiinn rriiddggeess aass ddeeffiinneedd bbyy tthhee CCooddee ooff
VViirrggiinniiaa,, iitt sshhoouulldd ccoonnssiiddeerr wwhheetthheerr iitt wwoouulldd lliikkee ttoo aaddoopptt rreegguullaattiioonnss ffoorr aa mmoouunnttaaiinn
rriiddggee ccoonnssttrruuccttiioonn oorrddiinnaannccee..
89. 2295.2 Optional authority to
create zoning
modification in dam
break inundation zones
Optional,
Not Included
No reference This section of the Code of Virginia allows a locality to, by ordinance, require
modification of an application for zoning, a conditional use permit, or a special exception
for the area of a development that is proposed within a mapped dam break inundation
zone.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddooppttiioonn ooff pprroovviissiioonnss iinn tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee tthhaatt rreeqquuiirree aaddddiittiioonnaall
pprroovviissiioonnss ooff aapppplliiccaattiioonnss ffoorr aa zzoonniinngg mmaapp aammeennddmmeenntt oorr ssppeecciiaall uussee ppeerrmmiittss ffoorr tthhee
aarreeaa ooff aa ddeevveellooppmmeenntt pprrooppoosseedd wwiitthhiinn aa mmaappppeedd ddaamm bbrreeaakk iinnuunnddaattiioonn zzoonnee.. AAtt aa
mmiinniimmuumm,, rreeccoommmmeenndd tthhaatt aapppplliiccaannttss bbee rreeqquuiirreedd ttoo nnoottee iinn aapppplliiccaattiioonnss iiff tthheeyy aarree
pprrooppoossiinngg ddeevveellooppmmeenntt iinn aann iinnuunnddaattiioonn zzoonnee aanndd tthhee hhaazzaarrdd ssttaattuuss ooff tthhee ddaamm..
90. 2296 Conditional zoning -
legislative policy
Yes 35-40
35-808
The Zoning Ordinance provides for conditional zoning at the time of rezoning.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
91. 2297 Conditional zoning -
rezoning/map
amendments
Partial 35-808
35-809
The Zoning Ordinance supplies language that provides the option for property owners
to voluntarily proffer conditions with a rezoning application. Section 35-809 of the
Zoning Ordinance includes language that mirrors the language of §15.2-2297 of the Code
of Virginia. The section also attempts compliance through including a direct language to
the Code of Virginia; however, the referenced code section is incorrect. RReeccoommmmeenndd
iinncclluuddiinngg vveerrbbaattiimm,, oorr cclloosseellyy ffoolllloowwiinngg,, tthhee llaanngguuaaggee iinncclluuddeedd iinn §1155..22--22229977..
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Packet Pg. 49 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2288 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
92. 2298 Conditional zoning -
high- growth
amendments
N/A N/A This section of the Code of Virginia applies to (i) any locality which has had population
growth of 5% or more from the next-to-latest to latest decennial census year, based on
population reported by the U.S. Census Bureau; (ii) any city adjoining such city or county;
(iii) any towns located within such county; and (iv) any county contiguous with at least
three such counties, and any town located in that county.
Pittsylvania County does not fall under any of these criteria; therefore, this section of
the Code of Virginia is not required for inclusion in the Zoning Ordinance. However, the
Zoning Administrator and Planning Commission need to be aware of the provisions in
this section in the event that it becomes applicable to Pittsylvania County in future years.
93. 2299 Conditional zoning -
enforcement
Yes 35-811 Section 35-811 of the Zoning Ordinance grants the Zoning Administrator all necessary
authority to administer and enforce conditions attached to a rezoning.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
94. 2300 Conditional zoning -
records
Yes 35-810 Section 35-810 of the Zoning Ordinance states that each rezoning shall be designated on
the zoning map by an appropriate symbol designed by the Zoning Administrator, and
that the Zoning Administrator will keep and maintain any required zoning index showing
conditions, in addition to the section of the ordinance creating those conditions.
The Code of Virginia requires that the index shall provide ready access to all proffered
cash payments and expenditures disclosure reports. However, since Pittsylvania County
does not accept cash proffers, this section is not applicable.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg llaanngguuaaggee tthhaatt ssttaatteess tthhee iinnddeexx wwiillll bbee uuppddaatteedd aannnnuuaallllyy bbyy tthhee
ZZoonniinngg AAddmmiinniissttrraattoorr.. RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22330000.. RReeccoommmmeenndd
ssttrreennggtthheenniinngg llaanngguuaaggee ttoo cclleeaarrllyy ssttaattee tthhaatt tthhee iinnddeexx wwiillll bbee uuppddaatteedd aannnnuuaallllyy aatt
mmiinniimmuumm..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 50 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 2299 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
95. 2301 Conditional zoning -
petitions for review of
decision
Partial 35-849
35-850
Sections 35-849 and 35-850 of the Zoning Ordinance partially address appeals and states
that the Board of Zoning Appeals has the authority to hear and decide appeals from the
decision of the Zoning Administrator, as well as the authority to hear and decide appeals
from any order, requirement, decision, or determination made by an administrative
officer in the administration or enforcement of the Zoning Ordinance or any other
pursuant regulation. Full compliance with the Code of Virginia can be achieved by
strengthening and clarifying this language, as well as including a direct reference to
§15.2-2301.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg tthhee llaanngguuaaggee pprroovviiddeedd iinn,, aanndd aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo,, §§1155..22--22330011 ooff tthhee
CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
96. 2302 Conditional zoning -
amendments and
variations
No No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not include the process for amending or proposing variations
to proffered conditions.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg tthhee llaanngguuaaggee pprroovviiddeedd iinn,, aanndd aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo,, §§1155..22--22330022 ooff tthhee
CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
97. 2303 Conditional zoning -
certain localities
N/A N/A This section of the Code of Virginia does not apply to Pittsylvania County. The County
does not utilize an urban county executive form of government nor is it adjacent to a
county that utilizes the urban county executive form of government.
98. 2303.1 Binding development
agreements - certain
localities
N/A N/A This section of the Code of Virginia only applies to the County of New Kent.
99. 2303.1:1 Cash proffer option -
process
N/A N/A This section of the Code of Virginia provides that cash proffers cannot be accepted until
after final inspection and prior to certificate of occupancy.
Pittsylvania County does not accept cash proffers; therefore, this section of the Code of
Virginia does not apply.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 51 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3300 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
100. 2303.2 Proffer cash payments
and expenditures -
process
N/A N/A Pittsylvania County does not accept cash proffers; therefore, this section of the Code of
Virginia does not apply.
101. 2303.3 Cash proffer requested
or accepted conditions
- process
N/A N/A Pittsylvania County does not accept cash proffers; therefore, this section of the Code of
Virginia does not apply.
102. 2303.4 Provisions applicable to
certain proffers
No No reference This section of the Code of Virginia provides that no locality can require an unreasonable
proffer for residential development or uses, but allows onsite and offsite proffers that
the applicant deems reasonable.
WWhhiillee tthhiiss iiss aa pprroocceedduurraall rreeqquuiirreemmeenntt,, tthhee sseeccttiioonn ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa sshhoouulldd bbee
iinncclluuddeedd aanndd rreeffeerreenncceedd iinn tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee aass aa bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee..
103. 2304 Affordable dwelling
ordinances - certain
localities
N/A N/A This section of the Code of Virginia is only applicable to the Counties of Albemarle and
Loudoun, and the Cities of Alexandria and Fairfax.
104. 2305 Affordable dwelling
ordinances
Optional,
Not Included
No reference The Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance does not include an affordable dwelling unit
ordinance.
TThhiiss sseeccttiioonn ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa iiss aann ooppttiioonnaall pprroovviissiioonn tthhaatt mmaayy bbee ccoonnssiiddeerreedd..
105. 2306 Optional historical site
preservation
Optional,
Not Included
No reference Section 35-141D requires that large scale and utility scale solar facilities have minimal
impacts on any historic properties listed on the Virginia Landmarks Register, or the
National Register of Historic Places. Section 35-762 requires that site development plans
include more specific consideration for any historic preservation. However, beyond this
language, the County does not have a formal ordinance regulating the protection of
historic structures and areas.
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy mmaayy wwiisshh ttoo ccoonnssiiddeerr tthhee eessttaabblliisshhmmeenntt ooff aa hhiissttoorriicc oovveerrllaayy ddiissttrriicctt
ffoorr tthhee pprrootteeccttiioonn ooff hhiissttoorriicc aarreeaass oorr eennttrraannccee ccoorrrriiddoorrss.. TThhiiss wwoouulldd bbee aa sseeppaarraattee eeffffoorrtt
ffrroomm tthhee ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee oorrddiinnaannccee uuppddaattee,, aass iitt rreeqquuiirreess aaddddiittiioonnaall hhiissttoorriicc ssuurrvveeyyss aanndd
aarrcchhiitteeccttuurraall rreevviieeww gguuiiddeelliinneess..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 52 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3311 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
106. 2306.1 Establishment of
working waterfront
development areas
Optional,
Not Included
No reference The Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance does not designate any working waterfront
development areas. Working waterfront development areas may grant incentives and
provide some regulatory flexibility to encourage water dependent industries and
activities.
PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy mmaayy wwiisshh ttoo ccoonnssiiddeerr wwhheetthheerr aannyy aarreeaass aarroouunndd SSmmiitthh MMoouunnttaaiinn
LLaakkee oorr LLeeeessvviillllee LLaakkee sshhoouulldd bbee ddeessiiggnnaatteedd aass wwoorrkkiinngg wwaatteerrffrroonntt ddeevveellooppmmeenntt aarreeaass,,
aanndd ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee rreegguullaattiioonnss aaddoopptteedd aaccccoorrddiinnggllyy.. MMaapp aammeennddmmeennttss ffoorr aaddddiittiioonnaall
ddiissttrriiccttss wwoouulldd bbee aa sseeppaarraattee eeffffoorrtt ffrroomm tthhee ccoommpprreehheennssiivvee oorrddiinnaannccee uuppddaattee..
107. 2307 Protection of vested
rights for non-
conforming uses
Yes 35-166 Section 15.2-2307 of the Code of Virginia allows that a nonconforming structure can be
rebuilt as it was, without a special exception, if the structure was destroyed by a fire,
disaster, or an Act of God.
Section 35-166 of the Zoning Ordinance permits a nonconforming structure to be rebuilt
or repaired if it is damaged because of factors beyond the control of the owner and/or
occupant. The repair must commence within 12 months of the initial destruction and be
completed within 24 months of the initial destruction, which complies with the time
limitations stated within the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg tthhee llaanngguuaaggee pprroovviiddeedd iinn,, aanndd aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo,, §§1155..22--22330077 ooff tthhee
CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa,, bbootthh aass aa bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee aanndd ttoo ssttrreeaammlliinnee tthhee eexxiissttiinngg llaanngguuaaggee ooff tthhiiss
sseeccttiioonn..
108. 2307.1 Commercial fishing N/A N/A This section requires commercial fishermen to register locally. Due to the lack of a fishing
industry in the locality, this section of the Code of Virginia does not apply.
109. 2308 Zoning appeal board Yes 35-844
35-845
The Zoning Ordinance provides for the enactment of a Board of Zoning Appeals. It
incorporates some language verbatim from this section of the Code of Virginia and has
also achieved compliance through direct reference to the Code of Virginia.
TThhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee ccoommpplliieess wwiitthh tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 53 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3322 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
110. 2308.1 Boards of zoning
appeals, ex parte
communications,
proceedings.
No No reference The Zoning Ordinance does not address ex parte communications.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg llaanngguuaaggee aaddddrreessssiinngg eexx ppaarrttee ccoommmmuunniiccaattiioonnss aanndd aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo
§§1155..22--22330088..11 ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
111. 2309 Zoning appeal board
powers and duties
Partial 35-849 Section 35-849 provides an extensive list of powers and duties of the Pittsylvania County
Board of Zoning Appeals, some of which are listed verbatim from the Code of Virginia.
Partial compliance is also achieved through direct reference to this section of the Code
of Virginia. However, the Zoning Ordinance does not address variances considering
persons with a disability, revocation of Special Use Permits, or fixing a schedule of regular
meetings through a resolution.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg llaanngguuaaggee aaddddrreessssiinngg vvaarriiaanncceess ttoo bbeetttteerr aalliiggnn wwiitthh tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn ooff
tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa aass ccuurrrreennttllyy wwrriitttteenn.. RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg llaanngguuaaggee ttoo aaddddrreessss
vvaarriiaanncceess ccoonnssiiddeerriinngg ppeerrssoonnss wwiitthh aa ddiissaabbiilliittyy aanndd rreevvooccaattiioonn ooff SSppeecciiaall UUssee PPeerrmmiittss..
WWhhiillee iinncclluuddeedd aass aann ooppttiioonnaall pprroovviissiioonn ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa aanndd mmaayy bbee ooccccuurrrriinngg iinn
pprraaccttiiccee,, rreeccoommmmeenndd ffiixxiinngg aa sscchheedduullee ooff rreegguullaarr mmeeeettiinnggss tthhrroouugghh rreessoolluuttiioonn aass aa bbeesstt
pprraaccttiiccee..
112. 2310 Application for special
exceptions and
variance
Partial 35-713
35-851
While the Zoning Ordinance includes procedures for applications for variances almost
verbatim from the Code of Virginia, procedures for applications for special use permits
do not address who may apply for a special use permit.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg SSeeccttiioonn 3355--771133 ffoorr aaddddiittiioonnaall ssppeecciiffiicciittyy..
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Packet Pg. 54 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3333 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
113. 2311 Optional appeals to
Board of Zoning
Appeals - process
Partial 35-850 Section 35-850 outlines the process for appeals to the Board of Zoning Appeals,
incorporating some language verbatim from the Code of Virginia. However, full
compliance could be achieved through additional specificity. Specifically, language could
be added that reflects procedures for administrative handling of the appeal prior to the
board decision, the 60-day limitation period, and procedures in the event of the tie vote,
all outlined in this section of the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg llaanngguuaaggee tthhaatt iiss ttaakkeenn ffrroomm,, oorr cclloosseellyy aalliiggnnss wwiitthh,, §§1155..22--22331111..BB,, CC,,
aanndd DD ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa.. AAss aa bbeesstt pprraaccttiiccee,, rreeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo
§§1155..22--22331111..
114. 2312 Appeals to Board
procedure - process
Partial 35-852 This section of the Code of Virginia allows a Board of Zoning Appeals ninety days to make
its decision on a matter. The Zoning Ordinance allows a 60-day review period.
TToo ccoommppllyy wwiitthh tthhiiss sseeccttiioonn ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa,, rreeccoommmmeenndd iinnccrreeaassiinngg tthhee
ttiimmeeffrraammee ffoorr BBZZAA ddeecciissiioonn ffrroomm ssiixxttyy ttoo nniinneettyy ddaayyss..
115. 2313 Prevention of
construction not in
accordance with
ordinance - process
No No reference Section 35-701 of the Zoning Ordinance outlines requirements for building permits to
comply with regulations stated in the Zoning Ordinance. However, the Zoning Ordinance
does not include language that addresses the prevention of construction not in
accordance with the ordinance, which mainly relates to the right of an individual to
appeal construction through a court of law.
The Zoning Ordinance does not comply with this section of the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd aaddddiinngg llaanngguuaaggee ttoo aaddddrreessss aappppeeaall pprroocceeeeddiinnggss vviiaa aa ccoouurrtt ooff llaaww ttoo
pprreevveenntt ccoonnssttrruuccttiioonn ooff aa bbuuiillddiinngg iinn vviioollaattiioonn ooff tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee,, iinncclluuddiinngg aa
rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22331133..
116. 2314 Writ of Certiorari to
review Board's decision
Yes 35-853 The Zoning Ordinance achieves compliance with this section of the Code of Virginia
through language that closely mirrors the language used in the Code of Virginia, as well
as through direct reference to §15.2-2314.
The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code of Virginia.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 55 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3344 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
117. 2315 Conflict of state and
local ordinance
Yes 35-23 Section 35-23 states that whenever any provisions of the Zoning Ordinance conflict with
any state statute or regulation, the more stringent regulation shall govern. The Zoning
Ordinance therefore complies with this section of the Code of Virginia. However, this
section could be further strengthened by including a direct reference to this section of
the Code of Virginia.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg ttoo iinncclluuddee ddiirreecctt rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22331155..
118. 2316 Validation of
ordinances prior to
1971
N/A N/A The Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance was adopted in January 1991; therefore, this
section of the Code of Virginia does not apply.
119. 2316.1 Definitions regarding
transfer of
development rights
(TDRs)
Optional,
Not included
No reference This section of the Code of Virginia provides definitions for Transfer of Development
Rights programs. Pittsylvania County does not have a transfer of development rights
program.
SSeeee lliinnee iitteemm 112200 ffoorr rreeccoommmmeennddaattiioonn..
120. 2316.2 Optional provisions for
transfer of
development rights
Optional,
Not included
No reference This section of the Code of Virginia allows localities the option to establish transfer of
development rights (TDR) programs, in which a locality may designate receiving
areas/properties that shall receive development rights only from certain sending
areas/properties. This is typically used by counties as a rural area preservation tool.
TThhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee ddooeess nnoott iinncclluuddee TTDDRR ssttaannddaarrddss oorr pprroocceedduurreess.. PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa
CCoouunnttyy mmaayy wwiisshh ttoo iinncclluuddee pprroovviissiioonnss ffoorr aa TTDDRR pprrooggrraamm;; hhoowweevveerr,, sseennddiinngg aanndd
rreecceeiivviinngg aarreeaass sshhoouulldd bbee iiddeennttiiffiieedd iinn tthhee CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee PPllaann.. IItt iiss rreeccoommmmeennddeedd ttoo
eexxpplloorree TTDDRR iinn tthhee nneexxtt CCoommpprreehheennssiivvee PPllaann uuppddaattee.. IIff iinnccoorrppoorraatteedd,, llaanngguuaaggee aass
oouuttlliinneedd iinn §§1155..22--22331166..22 ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa sshhoouulldd bbee iinncclluuddeedd iinn tthhee ZZoonniinngg
OOrrddiinnaannccee..
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 56 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3355 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
121. 2316.3 Definitions regarding
small cell facilities
No No reference This section of the Code of Virginia establishes the definitions for telecommunications
facilities. The Zoning Ordinance does not include any of the listed definitions for
telecommunications facilities.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee ttoo iinncclluuddee tthhee aapppplliiccaabbllee
tteelleeccoommmmuunniiccaattiioonnss ddeeffiinniittiioonnss ooff §§ 1155..22--22331166..33 ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa.. RReeccoommmmeenndd
aaddooppttiioonn ooff tteelleeccoommmmuunniiccaattiioonnss ssttaannddaarrddss ffoorr aapppplliiccaattiioonn,, rreevviieeww,, aanndd ffeeeess,, aass
pprroovviiddeedd ffoorr iinn tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
122. 2316.4 Permitting and review
of small cell facilities
No No reference The Code of Virginia §15.2-2316.4 outlines application, review, and fee requirements for
small cell facilities. The Zoning Ordinance does not include regulations or language for
small cell facilities.
RReegguullaattiioonnss sshhoouulldd bbee aaddddeedd ttoo ccoommppllyy wwiitthh §§ 1155..22--22331166..33 -- §§ 1155..22--22331166..44::33 ooff tthhee CCooddee
ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
123. 2316.4:1 Zoning; Other wireless
facilities
No No reference The Code of Virginia §15.2-2316.4:1 requires that localities cannot require a special use
permit, special exception, or a variance for “administrative-review eligible projects”. The
Zoning Ordinance does not define “administrative review eligible projects”.
RReeccoommmmeenndd uuppddaattiinngg tthhee ZZoonniinngg OOrrddiinnaannccee’’ss ddeeffiinniittiioonnss sseeccttiioonn ttoo iinncclluuddee aallll rreelleevvaanntt
ddeeffiinniittiioonnss iinncclluuddeedd iinn §§1155..22--22331166..33 ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa aanndd ttoo aammeenndd tthhee ZZoonniinngg
OOrrddiinnaannccee ttoo eessttaabblliisshh ““aaddmmiinniissttrraattiivvee rreevviieeww eelliiggiibbllee pprroojjeeccttss”” aass aa bbyy rriigghhtt uussee..
124. 2316.4:2 Application reviews for
small cell facilities
No No reference The Code of Virginia §15.2-2316.4:2 establishes the guidelines for review applications
for small cell facilities. It explicitly prevents applications from being denied for various
reasons and states the type of requirements that localities cannot require in their
applications. The Zoning Ordinance does not include regulations or language for small
cell facilities.
SSeeee lliinneess 112211 aanndd 112222 ffoorr rreeccoommmmeennddaattiioonn..
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Packet Pg. 57 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3366 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
125. 2316.4:3 Additional provisions
for zoning applications
of telecommunications
facilities
No No reference §15.2-2316.4:3 of the Code of Virginia establishes that localities cannot require zoning
approval for routine maintenance or for the replacement of existing wireless facilities.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg aa ssttaatteemmeenntt ttoo tthhee ““tteelleeccoommmmuunniiccaattiioonn ffaacciilliittyy”” ssttaannddaarrddss tthhaatt
ssttaatteess,, ““AA llooccaalliittyy sshhaallll nnoott rreeqquuiirree zzoonniinngg aapppprroovvaall ffoorr ((ii)) rroouuttiinnee mmaaiinntteennaannccee oorr ((iiii)) tthhee
rreeppllaacceemmeenntt ooff wwiirreelleessss ffaacciilliittiieess oorr wwiirreelleessss ssuuppppoorrtt ssttrruuccttuurreess wwiitthhiinn aa ssiixx--ffoooott
ppeerriimmeetteerr wwiitthh wwiirreelleessss ffaacciilliittiieess oorr wwiirreelleessss ssuuppppoorrtt ssttrruuccttuurreess tthhaatt aarree ssuubbssttaannttiiaallllyy
ssiimmiillaarr oorr tthhee ssaammee ssiizzee oorr ssmmaalllleerr”” aanndd aa rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§ 1155..22--22331166..44::33 ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff
VViirrggiinniiaa..
126. 2316.5 Moratorium on zoning
applications from
wireless service
providers prohibited
Yes No reference Pittsylvania County does not currently have a moratorium on zoning applications from
wireless service providers. The Zoning Ordinance complies with this section of the Code
of Virginia.
127. 2316.6 Siting of solar projects
and energy storage
projects – definitions
Partial 35-141 This section of the Code of Virginia provides definitions that pertain to energy storage
facilities and solar facilities.
Section 35-141 is Pittsylvania County’s solar ordinance. The purpose of regulations
pertaining to solar energy as stated in the Zoning Ordinance is to “promote and regulate
the development of solar energy facilities in Pittsylvania County while protecting the
public health, safety and general welfare of the community.”
Use standards and application requirements for small scale, large scale, and utility scale
solar energy facilities respectively are provided for in Section 35-141. The Zoning
Ordinance does not define each type of solar energy facility. Consideration can be given
to including general definitions, as in §15.2-2316.6 for consistency and to streamline
application and review processes.
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Packet Pg. 58 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3377 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
128. 2316.7 Negotiations; siting
agreement
Yes 35-141(C) This section of the Code of Virginia requires that any applicant for a solar project or an
energy storage project give written notice to the locality and request a meeting, where
applicant and locality shall discuss and negotiate a siting agreement. This section of the
Code of Virginia also provides language for siting agreements contents.
Section 35-141(C) states that no rezoning or Special Use Permit application for a utility
scale solar energy facility may be initiated until the applicant has first initiated
negotiations with the County for a Siting Agreement as authorized by the Code of
Virginia. This section could be strengthened by including a reference to §15.2-2316.7
and including the list of possible terms and conditions for a siting agreement as stated
in the Code of Virginia. It is important to note, however, that the County cannot mandate
a siting agreement as a requirement of approval of an application. See line 130 for
additional information.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg rreeffeerreennccee ttoo §§1155..22--22331166..77 aanndd iinncclluuddiinngg ppootteennttiiaall tteerrmmss aanndd
ccoonnddiittiioonnss ooff aa ssiittiinngg aaggrreeeemmeenntt bbeettwweeeenn aann aapppplliiccaanntt aanndd PPiittttssyyllvvaanniiaa CCoouunnttyy,, aass
pprroovviiddeedd ffoorr iinn tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
129. 2316.8 Powers of host
localities
No No reference This section of the Code of Virginia states the powers of localities regarding the siting of
solar facilities. Powers include: i) hiring consultants, ii) discussing a siting agreement with
an applicant, iii) entering into a binding siting agreement; and iv) presenting the
agreement at a public hearing. The Zoning Ordinance states that negotiations for a siting
agreement shall occur but does not state the powers of the governing body of
Pittsylvania County.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg tthhiiss lliisstt ooff ppoowweerrss tthhaatt aa llooccaalliittyy hhaass ffoorr tthhee ssiittiinngg ooff ssoollaarr pprroojjeeccttss
ffoolllloowwiinngg tthhee oouuttlliinnee ooff tthhee pprroovviissiioonnss ooff §§ 1155..22--22331166..88 eett.. sseeqq.. ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa..
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Packet Pg. 59 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3388 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
130. 2316.9 Effect of executed
siting agreement; land
use approval
No 35-141(C) This section of the Code of Virginia states that all land use approvals shall be necessary
for a solar facility, a siting agreement shall deem the project in accordance with a
Comprehensive Plan, but other land use approvals will be required; and that a governing
body cannot deny approval solely based on the absence of a siting agreement.
Pittsylvania County requires that an applicant must initiate a siting agreement prior to
the formal submittal of an application. However, it does not specify that failure to enter
into a siting agreement will not be a sole reason for denial of such application.
Additionally, the Zoning Ordinance does not include explicit language stating that
approval of a siting agreement by the local governing body deems a project in
substantial accord with the Comprehensive Plan or that all land use approvals shall be
necessary for a solar facility.
RReeccoommmmeenndd iinncclluuddiinngg aa sseeccttiioonn ttoo pprroovviiddee rreegguullaattiioonnss ssppeecciiffiiccaallllyy ffoorr ssiittiinngg aaggrreeeemmeennttss,,
aaddhheerriinngg ttoo tthhee pprroovviissiioonnss ooff §§ 1155..22--22331166..99 eett.. sseeqq.. ooff tthhee CCooddee ooff VViirrggiinniiaa.. RReeccoommmmeenndd
mmaakkiinngg tthhee eexxiissttiinngg rreeqquuiirreemmeenntt ffoorr ssiittiinngg aaggrreeeemmeenntt nneeggoottiiaattiioonnss aann ooppttiioonnaall iitteemm,,
iinncclluuddiinngg tthhee llaanngguuaaggee lliisstteedd iinn §§1155..22--22331166..77 ((SSeeee lliinnee iitteemm 112288))..
131. 2317 Article 8 – Road Impact
Fees - Applicable to
20k persons+5%
growth, or 15% growth
Optional,
Not Included
N/A (See lines
132 – 141)
This section of the Code of Virginia addresses road impact fees. This section of the Code
of Virginia does not apply to Pittsylvania County. Pittsylvania County has neither adopted
regulations for road impact fees nor undergone a 5% population growth rate between
2010 and 2020, as determined by the U.S. Census.
SSeeee lliinnee iitteemmss 113322 –– 114411 ffoorr aaddddiittiioonnaall iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn aanndd aannaallyyssiiss..
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Packet Pg. 60 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 3399 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
132. 2318 Definitions
Required if
Road Impact
Fees Ordinance
Adopted,
Not Applicable/
Not included
This section of the Code of Virginia includes definitions for terms relating to road impact
fees.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
133. 2319 Impact fee authority This section of the Code of Virginia allows a locality to adopt an ordinance that serves to
assess and impose impact fees on new development to pay all or a part of the cost of
reasonable road improvements that benefit the new development. If an ordinance is
adopted, an impact fee advisory committee must be established.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
134. 2320 Impact fee service area
establishment
This section of the Code of Virginia requires that impact fee service areas to be
delineated in a locality’s comprehensive plan.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
135. 2321 Adoption of road
improvement program
(must be done prior to
impact fee adoption)
This section of the Code of Virginia requires that prior to adopting any system of impact
fees, road improvements needs must be assessed – and adopt a road improvements
plan after a public hearing.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
136. 2322 Adoption of impact
fee, schedule
This section of the Code of Virginia requires that an adopted ordinance or regulation for
impact fees contain a schedule of fees.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
137. 2323 Applicability of fees This section of the Code of Virginia requires that an adopted ordinance or regulation for
impact fees contain a schedule of fees.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
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Packet Pg. 61 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 4400 ooff 4444
VA Code
Section
15.2-
Intent Compliance Existing ZO
Section Consultant Comments/Recommendations
138. 2324 Credit against fees
Required if
Road Impact
Fees Ordinance
Adopted,
Not included
This section of the Code of Virginia requires that the value of any dedication,
contribution, or construction from the developer for off-site road or other
transportation improvements benefiting the impact fee service area shall be treated as
a credit against the impact fees project.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
139. 2325 Updating plan of
impact fee
This section of the Code of Virginia requires that the road improvement plan, that is the
basis of the impact fees, be updated every two years; with amendments to impact fee
schedule, as appropriate.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
140. 2326 Proceeds use This section of the Code of Virginia requires that a road improvement account be
established for the impact fee service area and all funds collected through impact fees
shall be deposited in an interest-bearing account. Interest earned on deposits become
funds of the account. The use of the funds shall be for road improvements benefiting
the impact fee service area.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
141. 2327 Refund of impact fee This section of the Code of Virginia requires that a locality refund any impact fee for
which construction of a project is not completed within a reasonable time period, not
to exceed fifteen years.
Pittsylvania County has not adopted regulations for road impact fees.
142. 2328 Applicability of impact
fees
N/A N/A Pittsylvania County does not have an established urban transportation service district.
This section of the Code of Virginia applies to “urban counties” – which is a county with
a population of greater than 90,000, according to the United States Census of 2000.
Therefore, this section (Chapter 22, Article 9) of the Code of Virginia does not apply to
Pittsylvania County.
143. 2329 Imposition of impact
fees
N/A N/A §15.2-2329 of the Code of Virginia (Chapter 22, Article 9) does not apply to Pittsylvania
County. (See above)
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Packet Pg. 62 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 4411 ooff 4444
AAddddiittiioonnaall // EExxppllaannaattoorryy CCoommmmeennttss CCoonnssuullttaanntt RReeccoommmmeennddaattiioonnss
1. Organization The Zoning Ordinance mostly complies with the Code of Virginia. However, some references and language are outdated. The Zoning
Ordinance could also benefit from a reorganization of various sections and content. Improvements should include consolidation of
all application and notice procedures into a revised article. This article should include the language for all application processes and
procedures, including the procedure for advertisement and notification of public hearings discussing appeals, variances, special use
permits, conditional rezoning, site plans, and zoning permits.
The Berkley Group typically recommends the following organization for Zoning Ordinances: General ordinance provisions (effective
date, severability, applicability, jurisdiction, conflict, etc.); Permits & Applications; Districts (including dimensional standards); District
Use Matrix; Use Performance Standards; Community Design Standards; Nonconformities; and Definitions. This may be modified with
consideration to the specific administrative needs identified by County staff.
2. Permitting, Review, and Approval
Processes
Pittsylvania County’s timeframes for review are more stringent than those established in the Code of Virginia. The Planning
Commission, by ordinance, has 45 days to review a site development plan and issue either approval or disapproval, while the Code
of Virginia allows for up to 60 days. Additionally, the Zoning Ordinance states that the Planning Commission shall present its
recommendation to the Board of Supervisors within 60 days of the first meeting of the Commission. This timeline is not within the
Code of Virginia; the Code permits up to 12 months for a decision on a proposed zoning amendment. Consideration should be given
to amending the review periods to align with the review and approval timelines permitted in various sections of the Code of Virginia.
The Zoning Ordinance uses “special exception” and “special use permit” interchangeably. While both terms are referring to the same
process, as a best practice, it is recommended that the County choose one term to refer to the process. “Special use permit” is used
most frequently in the Zoning Ordinance and is the term being used in practice; recommend using this term consistently.
3. Fees / fee schedule The Code of Virginia requires that zoning and land use fees are adopted by ordinance. The Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance does
so in its administrative section. Recommend removing the existing administrative fee structure from the Zoning Ordinance and
adopting a separate ordinance which ideally would include all County fees, including those associated with zoning. This allows ease
of review, editing, and facilitation of public hearings during annual budgeting processes.
4. Cash Proffers Pittsylvania County does not accept cash proffers. The County should evaluate the effectiveness of this policy and if it should be
continued.
5. Civil Penalties Pittsylvania County currently does not provide procedures for civil penalties for zoning violations. Misdemeanor penalties for
violations of the Zoning Ordinance are utilized; however, it is recommended that civil penalties should be introduced and used as a
first line of defense, moving to misdemeanors as appropriate. A uniform schedule and summons procedure should be applied for
civil penalties as detailed in the Code of Virginia.
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Packet Pg. 63 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 4422 ooff 4444
AAddddiittiioonnaall // EExxppllaannaattoorryy CCoommmmeennttss CCoonnssuullttaanntt RReeccoommmmeennddaattiioonnss
6. Setbacks and Site Dimensions
Chart /Matrix.
Zoning district dimensional standards should be reviewed, revised, and reorganized for simplicity. For example, in some cases, side
setbacks are determined as a percentage of the lot frontage on a public road and front setbacks are measured from the centerline
of the edge of the right-of-way, whichever is greater. The placement of accessory structures in rear setbacks, as well as rear setbacks
for parcels adjoining Smith Mountain Lake, are both unclear. Additionally, several districts allow uses to be built right up to the
property line, which can lead to challenges for utility placement and negative impacts on neighboring properties. Recommend closely
reviewing setback requirements to ensure ease of administration, adequate siting of structures, and consistency in how setbacks are
determined and applied. All dimensional standards can be reviewed to ensure consistency and that standards remain appropriate
for modern uses.
The Zoning Ordinance can also incorporate a “Setback and Site Dimensions Chart” that can include height limits, lot coverage,
setbacks, etc. This provides ease for the reader and provides one place for each district’s dimensional regulations.
7. Use Matrix / Uses Uses for each district should be comprehensively updated and streamlined for all permitted uses and uses allowed by special use
permit. Terms should be streamlined to combine specific terms into broad categories (e.g.: paper manufacturing, plastics
manufacturing, concrete mixing can all be combined into “heavy manufacturing”). The Zoning Ordinance should be updated to
remove outdated terms (e.g. phonograph sales/service/repair, dance halls) and include modern terms (e.g.: brewery, food truck,
short-term rental). Staff has identified the need to remove outdated uses and has identified storage facilities / mini-storage as one
particular use needed for inclusion. All uses should also be clearly defined in the definitions section of the Zoning Ordinance.
8. Use Standards The use standards will be evaluated throughout the revision process to identify additional standards and to remove any provisions
that are too restrictive or have proven burdensome. Use standards for additional uses may be necessary to mitigate impacts of new
by-right uses. Staff has indicated intensive livestock/agriculture and storage facilities/mini-storage as two uses in need of updated or
new use standards.
Use standards for uses should be consolidated in one article. Recommend relocating any use standards included in the definitions or
scattered throughout the ordinance into a new, formalized section for use standards.
More specific recommendations for use standards (and uses) will evolve as the project progresses based on input from community
input, staff, Planning Commission, and the Board.
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Packet Pg. 64 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 4422 ooff 4444
AAddddiittiioonnaall // EExxppllaannaattoorryy CCoommmmeennttss CCoonnssuullttaanntt RReeccoommmmeennddaattiioonnss
6. Setbacks and Site Dimensions
Chart /Matrix.
Zoning district dimensional standards should be reviewed, revised, and reorganized for simplicity. For example, in some cases, side
setbacks are determined as a percentage of the lot frontage on a public road and front setbacks are measured from the centerline
of the edge of the right-of-way, whichever is greater. The placement of accessory structures in rear setbacks, as well as rear setbacks
for parcels adjoining Smith Mountain Lake, are both unclear. Additionally, several districts allow uses to be built right up to the
property line, which can lead to challenges for utility placement and negative impacts on neighboring properties. Recommend closely
reviewing setback requirements to ensure ease of administration, adequate siting of structures, and consistency in how setbacks are
determined and applied. All dimensional standards can be reviewed to ensure consistency and that standards remain appropriate
for modern uses.
The Zoning Ordinance can also incorporate a “Setback and Site Dimensions Chart” that can include height limits, lot coverage,
setbacks, etc. This provides ease for the reader and provides one place for each district’s dimensional regulations.
7. Use Matrix / Uses Uses for each district should be comprehensively updated and streamlined for all permitted uses and uses allowed by special use
permit. Terms should be streamlined to combine specific terms into broad categories (e.g.: paper manufacturing, plastics
manufacturing, concrete mixing can all be combined into “heavy manufacturing”). The Zoning Ordinance should be updated to
remove outdated terms (e.g. phonograph sales/service/repair, dance halls) and include modern terms (e.g.: brewery, food truck,
short-term rental). Staff has identified the need to remove outdated uses and has identified storage facilities / mini-storage as one
particular use needed for inclusion. All uses should also be clearly defined in the definitions section of the Zoning Ordinance.
8. Use Standards The use standards will be evaluated throughout the revision process to identify additional standards and to remove any provisions
that are too restrictive or have proven burdensome. Use standards for additional uses may be necessary to mitigate impacts of new
by-right uses. Staff has indicated intensive livestock/agriculture and storage facilities/mini-storage as two uses in need of updated or
new use standards.
Use standards for uses should be consolidated in one article. Recommend relocating any use standards included in the definitions or
scattered throughout the ordinance into a new, formalized section for use standards.
More specific recommendations for use standards (and uses) will evolve as the project progresses based on input from community
input, staff, Planning Commission, and the Board.
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 4433 ooff 4444
AAddddiittiioonnaall // EExxppllaannaattoorryy CCoommmmeennttss CCoonnssuullttaanntt RReeccoommmmeennddaattiioonnss
9. Telecommunications The Zoning Ordinance provisions for telecommunications and wireless facilities are currently limited. The Zoning Ordinance would
benefit from updates to comply with the Code of Virginia. Recommend developing clearly detailed telecommunications standards
including definitions, use standards, application procedures, and review procedures, as addressed in the Code of Virginia.
See lines 121-126 for more specific recommendations.
10. Solar Facilities Pittsylvania County’s solar ordinance is relatively robust; however, it is missing several regulations and processes for application
review outlined in the Code of Virginia. The County also requires the initiation of negotiations for a siting agreement prior to applying
for a large-scale or utility-scale solar facility. While the Code of Virginia permits localities to enter into a siting agreement, it does not
permit localities to make the approval of an application conditional to an approved siting agreement.
Recommend supplying powers of the host locality, siting agreement regulations, and application/review procedures, with the
appropriate Code of Virginia language and references. Recommend amending the solar ordinance to add additional standards based
on community feedback and planning best practices.
11. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) Accessory dwelling units are referenced in the Zoning Ordinance as “homes, single-family dwelling with apartments on premises”.
They are only permitted within the Agricultural District. Accessory uses are permitted by right in all districts, but it is unclear as to
whether or not an accessory use could entail a dwelling unit. Recommend updating the ordinance to include “accessory dwelling
unit” as a use with a definition and use standards. Tailored use standards can regulate items such as minimum and maximum floor
area or size, parking, location, and number of ADUs per parcel, among other standards. Consideration should be given to allowing
accessory dwelling units by right or with a special use permit in residential zoning districts.
12. Definitions Recommend formally integrating the existing supplementary definitions section as a codified section of the Zoning Ordinance and
placing at the end of the Zoning Ordinance. The Zoning Ordinance incorporates several of the definitions required by the Code of
Virginia; recommend including all definitions required by the Code of Virginia including, but not limited to, “historic area”, “family”,
“cemetery”, “amateur radio towers”, and “family day home”.
Recommend reviewing the list of definitions to remove outdated uses and definitions and add and define new uses to reflect recent
changes in land use patterns, for example, “storage facility”, “short-term rental”, “microbrewery”, and “affordable dwelling unit.”
Every permitted use should have a corresponding definition. Pittsylvania County Community Development and Economic
Development staff may have insight on uses and definitions for potential inclusion. Recommendations for uses and definitions will
also evolve over time as community input is considered.
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Packet Pg. 65 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update
Zoning Ordinance Diagnostic
AAppppeennddiixx AA –– PPaaggee 4444 ooff 4444
AAddddiittiioonnaall // EExxppllaannaattoorryy CCoommmmeennttss CCoonnssuullttaanntt RReeccoommmmeennddaattiioonnss
13. Signs Regulations for signs are usually supplied in the community design standards article with other community design elements like
landscaping, lighting, and parking.
It was observed that the current sign regulations are not content neutral as required under the findings of Supreme Court case Reed
v. Town of Gilbert. Any future sign regulations should pay respect only to the physical sign type and not its supplied content for
compliance with the aforementioned court case.
14. Landscaping, Screening, and
Buffers
In most cases, landscaping, screening, and buffer requirements are either optional or noted that they may be required by the Zoning
Administrator as a condition of a special use permit or zoning permit. The only two uses for which buffers are specifically required
are sawmills and solar energy facilities. As a best practice for mitigating adverse impacts, recommend strengthening the existing
language to require landscaping or screening between all business and industrial uses and non-business/industrial uses. The language
in screening and buffer requirements for large-scale and utility-scale solar energy facilities could also be strengthened. The County
should also consider addition of landscaping requirements for parking lots and other large impermeable surfaces.
15. Off-Street Parking The Zoning Ordinance addresses off-street parking in detail, including individual dimensions for individual parking spaces, requiring
off-street parking spaces to be on the same lot as the use to be served, and requiring all off-street parking – with the exception of
off-street parking for single family residences or duplexes – to be paved and adequately drained with proper lighting. Parking space
requirements are also included for many uses. Recommend reviewing parking minimums to ensure they remain appropriate in light
of modern best practices and amend accordingly. Recommend expanding the provided list of uses; all uses should be considered in
parking regulations. A matrix or other table may be a useful tool to consider including in this section.
16. Ordinance Review Recommend instituting an annual Zoning Ordinance review process with the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors. This
maintenance technique is a best practice to keep Pittsylvania County’s land use tools relevant and responsive to the needs of the
community.
Source: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title15.2/chapter22/
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Packet Pg. 66 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
61
Appendix B:
Comprehensive Plan
Diagnostic Matrix
61 5.a.c
Packet Pg. 67 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Comprehensive Plan Diagnostic – Goals, Objectives, and Implementation Strategies
Appendix B – Page 1 of 4
A Comprehensive Plan is the policy tool that lays the groundwork for how a community would like to develop over time. As the primary tool to implement the Comprehensive
Plan, the zoning ordinance should align to the Comprehensive Plan to the extent possible.
The following chart outlines the goals, objectives, and implementation strategies in the Pittsylvania County 2010 Comprehensive Plan that are most relevant to zoning
regulations1. The chart also details specific regulatory changes that would implement each strategy.
It is important to note that Pittsylvania County’s Comprehensive Plan is slated to be updated during the same timeframe as the Zoning Ordinance update. This provides an
opportunity to facilitate stronger alignment between the community’s long-term goals and the regulations within the Zoning Ordinance. However, it is important to
acknowledge that the upcoming Comprehensive Plan update process may shift the County’s existing priorities, objectives, and strategies. Therefore, the Zoning
Ordinance may have to be reassessed and amended in the short term to align with any new Comprehensive Plan objectives and priorities.
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EEnnvviirroonnmmeenntt
Environmental
Preservation
Review and revise ordinances as necessary to provide adequate area for septic
systems and to protect ground and surface waters from sewage
contamination.
• Review existing residential lot minimums – with
a focus on areas that are not serviced by public
utilities – to ensure they are adequate to
properly accommodate private wells and septic
system.
Promote reasonable landscaping requirements for new development projects. • Introduce landscape and screening
requirements for new development projects.
Historic
Preservation
Require that all known historic sites be identified on all subdivision plats, site
development plans and rezoning and special use permit applications and
evaluate any impacts or mitigation efforts.
• Require any historic resources listed on the
National Register of Historic Places or the
Virginia Landmarks Register visible from a
proposed development to be marked on a site
development plan or rezoning or special use
permit application. Preserve and protect local historic resources during the development of
County industrial and commercial economic development projects.
HHoouussiinngg Residential Land Use
Evaluate, and amend the zoning ordinance as necessary, to allow a full range
of housing choice options in the County including multi-family, patio homes,
town houses and condominiums.
• Allow accessory dwelling units in residential
districts.
• Allow townhouses in the RC-1 zoning district.
1 This assessment does not include all goals and strategies provided within the Comprehensive Plan; some goals, objectives, and strategies are shared among differing plan elements
while others may be longer-term or not relevant to the Zoning Ordinance.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 68 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Comprehensive Plan Diagnostic – Goals, Objectives, and Implementation Strategies
Appendix B – Page 2 of 4
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HHoouussiinngg,, ccoonntt..
Residential Land
Use, cont.
Promote affordable housing through zoning ordinance amendments including
density bonuses in exchange for providing affordable units.
• Consider whether density bonuses remain an
appropriate incentive to promote affordable
housing in the County. If deemed appropriate,
include the incentive within the district
standards.
Allow specialized housing for a variety of senior living needs.
• Add assisted living facilities as by-right uses in
residential zoning districts.
• Allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) with
appropriate use standards in residential
districts.
Revise ordinances to allow cluster housing projects in residential and
agricultural districts.
• Introduce a residential cluster development
option within the zoning districts.
Community Design
Standards
Promote and encourage well designed manufactured home communities that
are functional, aesthetic, and taxed as real estate.
• Introduce standards addressing landscaping,
lighting, and materiality for manufactured
home park districts.
Amend Zoning and subdivision ordinances to allow New Urbanism and
Traditional Neighborhood Design housing developments in appropriate areas.
• Consider the introduction of additional design
standards for the Residential Planned
Development district.
• Consider the creation of a mixed use Planned
Unit Development district.
Community Facilities
Take full advantage of enabling legislation pertaining to the use of proffers
including the use of a cash proffer program to help finance utility
infrastructure improvements
• Consider accepting cash proffers as part of
zoning permit applications to the extent
permissible by the Code of Virginia.
EEccoonnoommiicc
DDeevveellooppmmeenntt
Telecommunications Support the development of state-of-the-art telecommunications facilities in
appropriate locations in the County.
• Update the Zoning Ordinance to include
modern telecommunications uses, definitions,
application and review procedures, and
appropriate use standards.
Development
Quality
Require landscaping and, to the extent practical, the preservation of existing
trees and vegetation in all new economic development and redevelopment.
• Introduce landscape and screening
requirements for commercial and industrial
uses.
Provide opportunities for the mixing and integration of different types of uses
– both business and residential – within a single development under a
coherent overall master plan.
• Expand the types of business uses permitted
by-right in the Residential Planned
Development district.
• Consider the creation of a mixed use district.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 69 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Comprehensive Plan Diagnostic – Goals, Objectives, and Implementation Strategies
Appendix B – Page 3 of 4
PPllaann
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PPoolliiccyy
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TTrraannssppoorrttaattiioonn
Access Management
Adopt new zoning and subdivision ordinances that contain standards and
requirements for access management, traffic calming, and rights of way
dedication.
• Ensure that access and road standards in the
Zoning Ordinance are adequate.
Continue to consider road adequacy and safety as criteria when evaluating
development requests. Require applicants to provide formal traffic impact
studies in accordance with state legislation.
• Include traffic impact studies as a site plan
requirement for large developments.
Adopt zoning and subdivision ordinance amendments necessary to protect
future rights-of-way needed for new corridors or the improvement of existing
corridors.
• Ensure that front setbacks in the Zoning
Ordinance allow future corridor improvement.
• Ensure that front setbacks are measured from
the edge of the right-of-way where roadway
expansions are planned or where front
property lines are located in the center of the
right-of-way.
Level of Service Evaluate all rezoning and special exception requests partially on the basis of
the proposed land use impact on the County’s transportation system.
• Include traffic impact studies as a site plan
requirement for large developments.
Alternative
Transportation
Encourage and require bike lanes and bike paths within new residential
developments.
• Provide bicycle parking requirements for the
RMF and B-1 zoning districts.
• Require the inclusion of sidewalks and bike
lanes for new development within planned
development and multi-family residential
districts.
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MMaannaaggeemmeenntt
Commercial and
Industrial Land Use
Promote a strong and diversified industrial and commercial base which does
not create significant impacts on residential areas, prime agricultural lands or
public facilities.
• Introduce standards for landscaping and
screening between commercial/industrial uses
adjacent to non-commercial/industrial uses.
• Do not allow businesses or industrial uses by-
right in the agricultural district.
• Increase side and rear setback distances for
commercial and industrial uses.
• Update and provide additional use standards
for commercial and industrial uses.
Agricultural Land
Use
Through zoning and subdivision ordinance amendments consider limiting by
right, small lot subdivision activity in agriculture zoning districts.
• Consider modifying dimensional and density
standards in the A-1 zoning district.
• Update and provide additional use standards
for agricultural and residential uses.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 70 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Comprehensive Plan Diagnostic – Goals, Objectives, and Implementation Strategies
Appendix B – Page 4 of 4
PPllaann
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Agricultural Land
Use, cont.
Investigate ways to reduce residential/agricultural conflicts by creating a new
Rural Residential zoning designation and increasing minimum lot sizes in the
Agricultural zoning district.
• Increase the minimum lot size in the A-1 zoning
district.
• Increase side and rear setbacks in the A-1
zoning district.
• Consider including additional provisions in the
ordinances for agriculture preservation (cluster
regulations, large lot zoning, sliding scale
densities, etc.) See Berkley Group’s Agriculture
and Rural Preservation Guide.
Amend the County’s zoning and subdivision ordinances to provide density
bonuses for developments that demonstrate conservation site design
principles and/or incorporate low impact development techniques.
• Consider whether density bonuses remain an
appropriate incentive for conservation and low-
impact development.
• Establish other regulations intended to support
conservation, such as tree canopy cover and
open space requirements in higher-density
residential districts.
Enhance the rural and environmental character of the County through the
preservation of agricultural and forestal lands, wetlands, flood hazard areas,
and steep slopes.
• Require wetlands, flood hazard areas, and
steep slopes to be clearly marked on a site
development plan or concept plan.
• Consider including open space requirements
for large development to preserve
environmentally sensitive areas
Community Design
Standards
Amend the County zoning ordinance to provide enhanced standards for
signage, noise, landscaping, buffering, and lighting.
• Establish a community design standards article,
applicable to all zoning districts with
regulations for signs, lighting, and landscaping.
5.a.c
Packet Pg. 71 Attachment: Attachment B - Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Evaluation (3415 : Zoning Ordinance
Pittsylvania County, Virginia
Zoning Ordinance Update | October 18, 2022
Public Engagement Summary
and Community Survey Results
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 72 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C: Public Engagement Summary
Public Engagement Summary | Page 1 of 8
Overview
This document summarizes the suggestions, concerns, and comments from four (4) stakeholder
interviews, one (1) public workshop, and a community survey.
Stakeholder interviews were held on August 18, 2022, with a total of 10 attendees. Stakeholders
were representative of four groups:
1. Business owners, economic development representatives, and representatives from
Danville and the three Towns;
2. Bankers, attorneys, and real estate professionals;
3. The agricultural community and other special interest groups; and
4. Surveyors, engineers, developers, and contractors.
Each stakeholder group discussed the current Zoning Ordinance and opportunities for
improvement.
The public workshop was held on August 18, 2022, and consisted of approximately 20 participants.
The public workshop exercises resulted in the discussion of current assets within the County,
priorities the County should focus on during the Zoning Ordinance update, and general comments
of concern.
The public survey received a total of 208 responses, with all responses being online submissions.
Paper surveys were made available in County offices for submission but none were received by
County staff. The full survey results are included at the end of this attachment – Attachment B,
Public Engagement Summary and Community Survey Results.
The public engagement feedback is summarized below.
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 73 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C: Public Engagement Summary
Public Engagement Summary | Page 2 of 8
Stakeholder Interview Summary
Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 4
Business owners,
economic
development
representatives,
representatives
from Danville and
the three Towns
Bankers, attorneys, and
real estate professionals
Agricultural community
and other special interest
groups
Surveyors, engineers,
developers,
contractors, etc.
Overarching Themes
The following concerns and comments were the most common across all stakeholder groups:
• The Zoning Ordinance can be confusing to understand and apply, especially for members
of the community who are not referring to it regularly. The Zoning Ordinance does not
address complexity or “gray areas” well and is often contradictory.
• Housing choices are limited in Pittsylvania County. While single-family residential dwellings
are the most common in the County, all types of housing, including duplexes, apartments,
and manufactured housing are needed to address affordability challenges and prepare for
projected population growth in the region. Housing is especially limited for adults aged 55
and over, who are increasingly seeking options for active lifestyle communities.
• Newer uses such as food trucks, breweries, wineries, and short-term rentals are favorable
and appropriate within the context of the County. The Zoning Ordinance should allow
these uses and provide flexible regulations. Ultimately, the Zoning Ordinance should be
amended to be more business friendly for all types of commercial uses.
• Large event uses such as festivals, concerts, and entertainment venues need stricter
regulations to prevent adverse impacts on neighboring properties and to avoid their siting
in agricultural or residential areas.
• The minimum lot size in agricultural zoning could be increased to better facilitate the
installation of private wells and septic facilities as well as to preserve traditional farming
practices and agricultural activity.
• Community design standards should be improved. In particular, landscape design
standards should be regulated by the Zoning Ordinance, especially for large commercial
and industrial parking lots and for corridor areas around Danville and the incorporated
towns.
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 74 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C: Public Engagement Summary
Public Engagement Summary | Page 3 of 8
Individual Stakeholder Group Comments
Stakeholder Group 1
• Pittsylvania County is very business friendly and held in high regard in the region.
• Anticipated development opportunities for a 3,500-acre industrial site could significantly
increase the population; some projections expect the regional population to double.
Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance should therefore be proactive in addressing the
current housing shortage by incorporating flexible residential district standards. Single-
family homes are needed for the workforce, and patio homes – a one-story cottage
residence – townhomes, and condominiums are needed for retirees.
• New residential development should have plenty of green space.
• A recent hospitality study cited the need for more hotels and restaurants. An increase in
hospitality-related businesses would be beneficial in increasing the overall quality of life in
the County.
• Subdivision of agricultural lots into smaller residential properties could place a strain on
infrastructure if not properly monitored. The County should consider density requirements
for the A-1 district – i.e., you can have x number of homes on x amount of acres.
• Solar energy facilities need more screening, regardless of when they were approved and
constructed. Appropriate viewsheds from major highways, especially Route 29, should be
preserved.
Stakeholder Group 2
• While permitting processes are not complicated in and of themselves, many community
members feel overwhelmed and need assistance with the process.
• There is a housing shortage – all housing is needed, including multi-family residential units.
A participant noted that the region is an estimated 2,000 housing units behind where it
should be; this estimate does not incorporate job generation and population growth from
recently announced development such as Caesar’s Virginia Resort Casino.
• There is interest in more vertical mixed-use development and its feasibility in the County.
This type of development could be beneficial from both a tax perspective and for meeting
housing needs.
• Uses within Zoning Ordinance need revision; the A-1 district has uses that are too broad
for that district; new uses and use standards should be introduced. Zoning regulations
should be amended to be more business friendly, especially for small businesses.
• Setbacks in the A-1 district should either be kept the same or increased.
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 75 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C: Public Engagement Summary
Public Engagement Summary | Page 4 of 8
Stakeholder Group 3
• The Zoning Ordinance is a cumbersome document to read through. It can be difficult to
find certain keywords. Additionally, the Zoning Ordinance does not address complexity or
“gray areas” well.
• The County should identify its long-term land use goals and ensure that the Zoning
Ordinance properly implements these goals.
• The County has experienced a rapid loss of productive agricultural land to development of
residential subdivisions and solar energy facilities in recent years.
• When agricultural lots are subdivided for residential use, wells are often placed close to
the property lines, which inhibits farmers from being able to apply fertilizers and pesticides
in areas near a property boundary. Setbacks, and/or minimum lot size should be increased
in the A-1 district to remedy this problem.
• Agritourism uses are a good fit for the County, and a very good fit for certain property
owners. Close consideration should be given to what uses are considered “agritourism.”
• Food trucks, wineries, and breweries are uses that fit well within the context of the County.
Short-term rentals are another rapidly growing use, especially around Danville and Smith
Mountain Lake.
• Regulations for solar energy facilities are critical, especially regarding setbacks and
viewshed impact.
Stakeholder Group 4
• Pittsylvania County is a good place to work, as the Zoning Ordinance is less restrictive than
those of nearby counties, and review times are relatively quick. The zoning is simple, and
staff is accessible and helpful in explaining the Zoning Ordinance.
• Solar energy facilities remain a problem. However, recent amendments have seemed
adequate in addressing the problem.
• More housing is needed due to new commercial and industrial development in the
pipeline. The primary need is for single-family housing; mixed-use development is most
appropriate near or within Town limits.
• There is not a problem with a 20,000 square foot minimum lot size in the A-1 district.
However, this minimum lot size could increase, as very few lots within the A-1 district are
the bare minimum lot size. Most lots in the A-1 district are also unable to connect to public
water and/or sewer.
• The current minimum lot sizes for the R-1 and RC-1 districts are working, although they are
very small and can pose problems when designing septic systems.
• The current community design standards are lacking. Some simple standards for
landscaping and lighting would be beneficial. For commercial parking lots, a requirement
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 76 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C: Public Engagement Summary
Public Engagement Summary | Page 5 of 8
for one tree per x number of parking spaces could be adopted. Landscape standards should
include an approved tree or plantings list or include language encouraging the use of plants
native to Virginia.
• The Zoning Ordinance should be open, not restrictive, to newer, more modern uses such
as food trucks, breweries, and Airbnbs.
• Tighter regulations are needed for festivals and other special event uses to limit adverse
impacts on residential areas.
• Paved parking lots should not be required for every use, especially for agritourism and
agricultural uses, as these typically site in more rural areas of the County. A paving
requirement can also be cost prohibitive for the property owner. Paved parking lots could
be required for commercial and industrial uses; further restrictions could be applied
depending on the specific use.
• The lack of setbacks for commercial and industrial uses are not currently causing issues.
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 77 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C: Public Engagement Summary
Public Engagement Summary | Page 6 of 8
Public Workshop Summary
General Comments and Concerns:
• The County’s rural character and agricultural economy should be preserved and protected
in perpetuity.
• The Zoning Ordinance should appropriately balance regulations for commercial and
industrial uses without deterring these types of uses from expanding or locating in the
County.
• Additional regulations for solar energy facilities are needed, especially those pertaining to
environmental protection and decommissioning of panels.
• Consistency between the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances should be ensured. For
example, subdivision regulations in the A-1 district should be clarified and made consistent
with the County’s Subdivision Ordinance.
• Small businesses – especially those in residential and agricultural areas – should be
protected.
• There are several new uses that should be included and addressed appropriately in the
Zoning Ordinance, including tiny homes, agritourism, and affordable housing. All of these
uses are favorable and compatible within the context of the County.
• Current industrial lots are, in general, poorly maintained. Vacant industrial lots, rundown
buildings, and overgrowth are a problem.
• The size and number of billboards along Routes 29 and 58 is concerning for community
members.
• The Zoning Ordinance should ensure a balance between protecting open space and
ensuring that farming remains available and accessible to the next generation.
Uses:
• Housing of all types is needed and generally favorable. New development should integrate
adequate green space, as well as civic uses such as libraries and community centers.
• Short-term rentals (i.e., Airbnb) are generally favorable.
• New uses such as food trucks, breweries, and tasting rooms are also very favorable, with
some saying that incentives should be offered to property owners or operators. Event
venues are also a favorable use; however, additional regulations are needed, such as those
pertaining to vehicular access and location.
• Home-based businesses are very favorable and should be protected. Larger home-based
businesses may need greater regulations.
• Agritourism uses are very favorable, and the Zoning Ordinance should incorporate
flexibility into standards for these uses.
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 78 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C: Public Engagement Summary
Public Engagement Summary | Page 7 of 8
• Industrial uses are very favorable and the County needs more of these types of uses.
• Solar energy facilities should be considered industrial, not agricultural, in nature. In
general, solar energy facilities pose too much of a problem in agricultural areas.
• Mini-storage and self-storage facilities are needed in the County; however, buffering of
some type should be required. Parking requirements for this use should also be evaluated
to ensure that there is not too much parking.
Community Character and Design:
• Greater consideration should be given to additional architectural design standards for
residential and commercial uses in the County.
• Additional buffers between commercial and industrial uses and residential and agricultural
uses are a top priority for residents. Screening and landscaping for parking lots, dumpsters,
loading areas, and mechanical equipment was also noted as a great need, although
regulations should vary depending on location.
• Signage should be moderately restricted, with height requirements and aesthetic
requirements in place.
• Landscaping along roadways is greatly needed, especially along corridors into the Towns
or Danville.
• Lighting restrictions should address brightness and wattage, with more leniency in
residential areas.
• Regulations regarding fence style and height are generally appropriate, although a height
maximum in residential areas may be necessary. There should not be a height maximum
in commercial areas.
• Building height should be restricted in residential areas.
• Parking is inadequate in some instances and too much of a burden in others.
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 79 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C: Public Engagement Summary
Public Engagement Summary | Page 8 of 8
Public Survey Summary
Key Takeaways:
• The top three zoning and land use priorities were: Preserving agricultural and rural
character (63.49%), Protecting existing residential uses from other uses (43.39%) and
Conserving sensitive environmental areas (29.63%).
• The top implementation tools for maintaining agricultural character were identified as
offering tax incentives to promote agriculture (52.05%), limiting the number of divisions
on large agricultural lots (38.6%), and voluntary farm preservation districts (35.67%).
• Single family dwellings were identified as the most desirable type of residential use; tiny
homes and attached accessory dwelling units (i.e., basement apartments) also had strong
community support.
• Agritourism (75.64%), outdoor recreation/tourism (73.72%), home occupations without
onsite employees (58.97%), and wineries/breweries/distilleries (51.28%) were identified
as the most desirable types of non-residential use.
• There was strong support for implementing use standards for both residential and non-
residential uses.
• There was strong support for design standards to improve community character, although
respondents were split on whether fence height in business and residential areas should
be limited. Respondents were particularly in favor of landscaping and minimal sign clutter.
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 80 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Community Survey Results
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 81 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
76.44%159
25.48%53
12.02%25
75.00%156
0.96%2
3.85%8
Q1 General: Which of the following best describes your association with Pittsylvania County?
(Select all that apply):
Answered: 208 Skipped: 0
Total Respondents: 208
#OTHER. PLEASE SPECIFY: DATE
1 i rent out homes in the county.9/1/2022 7:36 PM
2 Town of Gretna 9/1/2022 7:32 PM
3 I am a farmer 8/20/2022 10:15 AM
4 Own a farm, real estate investor 8/8/2022 10:17 AM
5 Rental Property owner 8/2/2022 4:10 PM
6 We have endangered species on our 5.39 acrs. and are planting to sustain them- property tax
break needed!
8/2/2022 12:33 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
I live within County limits
I am a property owner within County limits
I am a developer or builder
Other. Please specify:
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
I live within County limits.
I work within County limits.
I own a business within County limits.
I am a property owner within County limits.
I am a developer/builder.
Other. Please Specify:
.
I work within County limits
I own a business within County limits.
.
.
.
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C | Community Survey Results
1/40
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 82 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
7 I rent commercial property 8/2/2022 10:51 AM
8 Have land in the county 8/1/2022 4:36 PM
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C | Community Survey Results
2/40
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 83 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
4.52%9
26.63%53
18.59%37
50.25%100
Total Respondents: 199
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
The Zoning is easy to
understand and navigate.
Average – I can find what I
need after reviewing carefully.
I find it difficult to understand and need help finding what I need.
I have never used the zoning ordinance.
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
The Zoning Ordinance is easy to understand and navigate.
Average – I can find what I need after reviewing carefully.
I find it difficult to understand and need help finding what I need.
I have never used the Zoning Ordinance.
Q2 General: Which of the following best describes your experience with the Pittsylvania County
Zoning Ordinance? (Choose one):
Answered: 99 Skipped: 9
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C | Community Survey Results
3/40
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 84 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
28.57%54
23.81%45
26.98%51
12.70%24
27.51%52
29.63%56
43.39%82
63.49%120
5.29%10
Total Respondents: 189
#OTHER. PLEASE SPECIFY: DATE
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Improving community appearance
Encouraging industrial growth
Encouraging new commercial businesses
Encouraging new housing
development
Preserving historic areas
Conserving sensitiveenvironmental areas
Protecting existing residentialareas from other uses
Preserving agriculture &
rural character
Other. Please specify:
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Improving community appearance
Encouraging industrial growth
Encouraging new commercial businesses (retail, restaurants, etc.)
Encouraging new housing development
Preserving historic areas
Conserving sensitive environmental areas
Protecting existing residential areas from other uses
Preserving agriculture & rural character
Other. Please Specify:
Q3 General: What are your top three zoning and land use priorities for Pittsylvania County?
(Choose up to three):
Answered: 189 Skipped: 19
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C | Community Survey Results
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5.a.d
Packet Pg. 85 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
1 Don’t be so strict on things , let the people choose what they want to do with there land.9/1/2022 8:48 PM
2 Need a park like waid recreation park in Franklin Co with everything that is in their park 9/1/2022 8:10 PM
3 Preserving agricultural land 8/17/2022 2:00 PM
4 Encourage tourism of our abundance of lakes and rivers 8/8/2022 10:21 AM
5 Improving ability for community to become self-sufficient (livestock ordinances, solar panel
laws, tax breaks for community members who use their property to homestead)
8/5/2022 11:50 AM
6 Protecting property owners rights as to the uses of their land and building rights thereon
without infringement.
8/3/2022 12:45 PM
7 NOT allowing Pittsylvania County to become one big solar farm. It's an eye sore and who
knows what will happen once all the money has been made and the solar cells are no longer
productive.
8/3/2022 11:18 AM
8 Protecting neighborhoods from being a farm 8/3/2022 6:58 AM
9 Re use of previous industrial buildings for new businesses 8/2/2022 10:22 PM
10 I think when someone owns property in the county, there shouldn’t be so many restrictions. It’s
like living in the city!
8/1/2022 8:50 PM
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C | Community Survey Results
5/40
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 86 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
19.02%35
26.09%48
9.24%17
45.65%84
Total Respondents: 184
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Not business friendly
Appropriately balanced for
business development
Too business friendly
Not sure/no opinion
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Not business friendly
Appropriately balanced for business development
Too business friendly
Not sure/no opinion
Q4 General: Regarding economic development, which of the following do you think best
describes Pittsylvania County's development regulations? (Choose one):
Answered: 184 Skipped: 24
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Packet Pg. 87 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
43.89%79
3.33%6
33.89%61
18.89%34
Total Respondents: 180
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
The minimum lot size should increase - this is too small for agricultural activity.
The minimum lot size should decrease - this is too big.
The minimum lot size
should stay the same -
this seems to be working well.
Not sure / no opinion
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
The minimum lot size should increase – this is too small for agricultural activity.
The minimum lot size should decrease – this is too big.
The minimum lot size should stay the same – this seems to be working well.
Not sure / no opinion
Q5 District Standards: The current minimum lot size in the County’s agricultural zoning district (A-1)
is 20,000 square feet, or 0.46 acres. Should this minimum lot size increase, decrease, or stay the
same? (Choose one):
Answered: 180 Skipped: 28
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Packet Pg. 88 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
16.37%28
52.05%89
32.75%56
35.67%61
38.60%66
5.85%10
18.71%32
Total Respondents: 171
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Allow cluster residential development on smaller lots to increase permanent protection of open space
Offer tax incentives to promote agriculture
Establish conservation
easements
Voluntary farm preservation
districts
Limit the number of divisions
on large agricultural lots
No changes necessary
Not sure / no opinion
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Allow cluster residential development on smaller lots to increase permanent protection of open space
Offer tax incentives to promote agriculture
Establish conservation easements
Voluntary farm preservation districts
Limit the number of divisions on large agricultural lots
No changes necessary
Not sure / no opinion
Q6 District Standards: Which of the following options would you support to maintain the character of
rural and agricultural areas within Pittsylvania County? (Select all that apply):
Answered: 171 Skipped: 37
Q7 Land Use: Would you encourage or discourage the following residential land uses in Pittsylvania
County? Please explain any specific concerns in the comment section. (Check one for each):
Answered: 163 Skipped: 45
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Packet Pg. 89 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Townhouses/duplexes
Apartments/multi-family housing units
Mixed use development with different housing types and uses
Single family houses
Mixed use buildings with both apartments and office/commercial
Encourage Discourage No OpinionAllow with restrictions
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Packet Pg. 90 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Encourage Discourage
Attached accessory dwelling units (i.e., basement apartment, in-law suites)
Detached accessory dwelling
units (i.e., a small apartment
located in a separate outbuilding or garage)
Manufactured homes
Tiny homes
No OpinionAllow with restrictions
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Packet Pg. 91 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
76.07%
124
16.56%
27
1.84%
3
5.52%
9 163
23.31%
38
48.47%
79
23.31%
38
4.91%
8 163
15.34%
25
48.47%
79
31.29%
51
4.91%
8 163
15.34%
25
46.63%
76
31.90%
52
6.13%
10 163
18.40%
30
42.94%
70
32.52%
53
6.13%
10 163
41.72%
68
44.79%
73
3.07%
5
10.43%
17 163
33.13%
54
44.79%
73
12.27%
20
9.82%
16 163
33.74%
55
39.88%
65
17.18%
28
9.20%
15 163
45.40%
74
29.45%
48
15.95%
26
9.20%
15 163
#COMMENTS:DATE
1 Let people use the land as best suites their needs. Stay in your own lane.9/2/2022 10:00 PM
2 Small number of similar dwellings grouped together would be acceptable; auxiliary add-on units
may allow seniors to remain in their homes.
9/2/2022 1:49 PM
3 Sr housing needs to be encouraged due to increase of baby boomers. There is a huge need for
this age group to,age in place with affordable housing options
9/2/2022 12:42 PM
4 Promote more single family dwellings.9/2/2022 12:33 PM
5 The continued development of the solar farms are gastly, noisy and downright miserable. We
need to preserve our farms and discourage their destruction.
9/2/2022 2:11 AM
6 Safety, security, & environmental issues should be of the utmost importance.9/1/2022 10:52 PM
7 Let’s keep it simple, use the land in the county to benefit the county’s ecosystems. Do not use
the land to benefit some boomers inherited wealth.
9/1/2022 10:03 PM
8 All housing should be available but with some restrictions 9/1/2022 9:51 PM
9 Campers, you should have the right to live in a camper if you have the proper amenities on site 9/1/2022 9:50 PM
10 As our parents age having the ability for a detached ADU in the "yard" could mean the
difference in their quality of life and our quality of life.
9/1/2022 9:42 PM
11 Pittsylvania is a large county with many different areas, closer to Danville will have more need
for all residential areas, towns will have different needs and the rural areas will be different all
together.
8/20/2022 10:24 AM
12 Limiting the number of Townhomes & Apartments will help to keep crime and tax burdens
down. Developers and investors tend to purchase the majority of these types of dwellings.
Their interest is usually driven by rental income and not maintaining quality family atmosphere
that Pittsylvania county is known for presently.
8/18/2022 2:13 PM
13 Pittsylvania County needs to be a welcoming county to various residential options due to the
lack of available, affordable housing.
8/17/2022 3:29 PM
14 Residential is just that residential. There needs to be smart growth in these areas. There 8/17/2022 2:07 PM
ENCOURAGE ALLOW WITH
RESTRICTIONS
DISCOURAGE NO
OPINION
TOTAL
Single family houses
Townhouses / duplexes
Apartments / multi-family housing units
Mixed use development with different housing types
and uses
Mixed use buildings with both apartments and
office/commercial
Attached accessory dwelling units (i.e., basement
apartment, in-law suites)
Detached accessory dwelling units (i.e., a small
apartment located in a separate outbuilding or garage)
Manufactured homes
Tiny homes
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Packet Pg. 92 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
seems to be quite a bit of these types of dwellings on land zoned A1
15 apartments, duplexes, etc encourage section 8. section 8 has ruined rental propertiesi and
priced 'little' individuals out of the rental market
8/10/2022 6:46 PM
16 I live in the country with no neighbors and it is wonderful. I do not want an apartment complex,
duplex or anything along those lines anywhere near me. I do not want to go from 0 neighbors to
100.That's the whole point of living in the country! No neighbors and peace/quiet!
8/10/2022 9:02 AM
17 In today’s environment if a person owns land and is trying to place a structure for living it
should be allowed - some with restrictions - but person should not be denied the right to place
an affordable structure on their property
8/10/2022 8:25 AM
18 My husband and I worked hard to have a nice house in a single family neighborhood. We do
not support rezoning that would allow for multi family use or have an apartment building stuck
in between houses. Concern would be traffic, noise and possible crime.
8/7/2022 4:35 PM
19 I would support development with townhouses/apartments IF there was a standard that a
reasonable amount of undeveloped square footage be available per household for them to
establish self-sufficiency through livestock or garden.
8/5/2022 11:53 AM
20 Balance per district, minimize restrictions as possible 8/5/2022 6:15 AM
21 The roadways in Pittsylvania County were fine when it was mainly farms but with additional
building they’ve become more unsafe -especially true in areas near apartments, schools,
industrial complexes & other areas with higher traffic. Single home dwellings are preferable to
apartments as it helps retain the property values, the rural feel of the Count, improve the
landscape & has less crime than in areas with large apartment buildings or complexes. While
we need to encourage businesses & industry, we also need to improve our roads.
8/3/2022 1:02 PM
22 We need to discourage burning trash and debris in residential neighborhoods 8/3/2022 7:01 AM
23 Future population growth must allow more growth for dwellings, especially as the economy
declines. low income housing facilities must be allowed. Slow growth of housing has caused a
greater need for housing restrictions to be more accommodating to lower income population- to
provide more housing. Everyone needs a place to live, not just those who are wealthy.
8/2/2022 4:32 PM
24 Encourage & reward those who protect our rural environment., e.g., homeowners with 1-5+
acres planting plants for endangered species and rare trees of VA should be encouraged &
rewarded with property tax breaks - we do not want to lose what's left of our rural environment!
8/2/2022 12:52 PM
25 I think it’s important to keep the rural character of the county while gradually increasing
business development and investment. We have a huge amount of cheap, open land ripe for
overdevelopment and abuse by exterior parties (to the county). While profit potential is the
integral part of attracting investment, there are too many parties who will jump at the chance to
make a buck here without any care or consideration for the county’s culture or well-being.
8/2/2022 9:35 AM
26 Encourage rental properties to be built for tiny home use. Release restrictions on sheds for tiny
homes! These make sense environmentally, as rentals, as a business or fully time residence!
8/1/2022 8:56 PM
27 Restrict residential areas from operating a business out of a home. Krysta Milam of Country
Drive lets her cousin Michael Milam operate a fourwheeler shop out of her garage which is
ridiculous. In our bylaws of when we bought our land and built our houses, their was a
resriction where you are not supposed to operate a business our of our neighborhood. It makes
it hard when you spent good money on a piece of land and house and you have noise ftom
next door and trash that accumulates on your fence and their property rezoned so the garage
is ",legal" but still so close to your property.
8/1/2022 7:36 PM
28 There needs to be more senior apartment housing. And more 55and over housing areas 8/1/2022 6:37 PM
29 I don't think there should be any restrictions regarding rv use on personal property 8/1/2022 4:41 PM
Q8 Land Use: Would you encourage or discourage the following non-residential land uses in Pittsylvania County? Please explain any specific concerns in the comment section.
(Check one for each):
Answered: 156 Skipped: 52
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Packet Pg. 93 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Agritourism (i.e., farm stands,
corn mazes, etc.)
Commercial development –
large/box store (i.e., Target)
Commercial development – small (i.e., bank, local restaurant, fitness studio)
Event venues in agricultural
/open space areas
Home occupations with onsite customers/employees (i.e., at-home hair salon or beauty parlor)
No OpinionEncourage Allow with restrictions Discourage
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Packet Pg. 94 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Home occupations without onsite customers/employees
Hotels
Industrial development
Mini storage/self-storage facilities
Offices
Encourage Allow with restrictions Discourage No Opinion
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Packet Pg. 95 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Encourage Allow with restrictions Discourage No Opinion
Outdoor recreation/tourism(i.e., park, campground, biking trails)
Short-term rentals (i.e., Airbnb)
Wineries, breweries, and distilleries
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Packet Pg. 96 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
75.64%
118
21.79%
34
0.00%
0
2.56%
4 156
26.28%
41
46.79%
73
23.72%
37
3.21%
5 156
50.00%
78
39.74%
62
7.05%
11
3.21%
5 156
39.10%
61
46.79%
73
12.82%
20
1.28%
2 156
45.51%
71
46.15%
72
7.69%
12
0.64%
1 156
58.97%
92
26.92%
42
7.05%
11
7.05%
11 156
28.85%
45
53.85%
84
14.74%
23
2.56%
4 156
32.05%
50
53.21%
83
11.54%
18
3.21%
5 156
16.67%
26
56.41%
88
23.72%
37
3.21%
5 156
30.13%
47
55.13%
86
10.90%
17
3.85%
6 156
73.72%
115
21.15%
33
4.49%
7
0.64%
1 156
36.54%
57
48.08%
75
12.18%
19
3.21%
5 156
51.28%
80
39.10%
61
7.05%
11
2.56%
4 156
#COMMENTS:DATE
1 Let people help support their lifestyle. If you want too live with HOA thats your choice.9/2/2022 10:04 PM
2 Allow with restrictions - on main thoroughfares (i.e. 29, 58) or within town limits.9/2/2022 1:55 PM
3 None 9/2/2022 12:35 PM
4 Individualsender and companies need to take full responsibilities for their environmental impact
as well as the safety and security of their site. Tax payers should NOT pay for these ventures.
9/1/2022 10:58 PM
5 I believe the county should grow economically, but not to the point where the county is overrun
by Dollar Generals, Family Dollars etc. Let’s grow as a county, but in ways that keep the
county beautiful for its residents and tourist.
9/1/2022 10:06 PM
6 Need a Dispensary for Cannabis 9/1/2022 8:09 PM
7 Stop granting approvals for solar farms 9/1/2022 8:00 PM
8 Again I think different areas of the county will require and need different zoning planning 8/20/2022 10:26 AM
9 Be pro-business !!8/17/2022 3:31 PM
10 keep the county (and the countryside) free of a large amount of commercial activity 8/10/2022 6:53 PM
11 More businesses in the County would increase tax revenue through sales tax, etc. We need
this desperately in the County because now ALL the burden falls taxpayers.
8/10/2022 9:04 AM
12 No public garages in residential areas 8/10/2022 8:42 AM
ENCOURAGE ALLOW WITH
RESTRICTIONS
DISCOURAGE NO
OPINION
TOTAL
Agritourism (i.e., farm stands, corn mazes, etc.)
Commercial development – large/box store (i.e.,
Target)
Commercial development – small (i.e., bank, local
restaurant, fitness studio)
Event venues in agricultural/open space areas
Home occupations with onsite customers/employees
(i.e., at-home hair salon or beauty parlor)
Home occupations without onsite
customers/employees
Hotels
Industrial development
Mini storage / self-storage facilities
Offices
Outdoor recreation / tourism (i.e., park, campground,
biking trails)
Short-term rentals (i.e., Airbnb)
Wineries, breweries, and distilleries
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Packet Pg. 97 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
13 The county needs to encourage businesses that will bring revenue such as restaurants from
people passing through - hotels basically do not exist in county.
8/10/2022 8:28 AM
14 Concern would be traffic with customers going in and out of home and commercial trucks
parked everywhere.
8/7/2022 4:38 PM
15 Ensure the air quality and quality of living in our County isn’t negatively affected by
developers, businesses or industries—such as large scale pig farms, paper mills, etc which
produces smelly gases/byproducts. Solar or wind farms without a plan to remove them at the
end of their lifespan & renew the land they were built upon.
8/3/2022 1:12 PM
16 It's ashame we gave up on the Blue ridge rock festival. If Halifax county can make it work why
couldn't we
8/3/2022 11:29 AM
17 Due to Covid and other diseases, home businesses are essential. The county doesn’t need to
make it difficult to operate by adding further ordinances or restrictions. Instead many
restrictions and ordinances already in place should be relaxed or discontinued all together.
8/2/2022 4:51 PM
18 How about some descent bus service to/from Danville & its shopping areas & colleges? We
desperately need to/from commuter rail service all the way to Washington DC, i.e., Danville to
Gretna to Altavista to Lynchburg/DC and back! We DON'T need a casino! Gambling ushers in
criminality and only encourages the weak-minded and those whose only aim is to take
advantage of them; ultimately, it only adds to our welfare rolls; before long the county will be
turned into a s__t hole. People love living rurally because it's quiet and beautiful, and a great
place to raise kids -please don't pave over paradise with unthought thru junk. Encourage small
businesses, HOME offices, not more vaping stores!
8/2/2022 1:32 PM
19 Outdoor Advertising should be allowed in commercial zones with reasonable restrictions to
promote small businesses and events in and around the county.
8/2/2022 10:57 AM
20 There’s already too much alcohol. Please consider allowing tiny homes, shed homes and the
like! There are so many restrictions that we cannot use our property as we planned for income!
That’s why you move out of the city limits !
8/1/2022 8:59 PM
21 You can have whatever you want on non residential land. When you go against the bylaws in a
restricted area as such as " Place in the Country" out in Ringgold , it is ridiculous. People
trying out fourwheelers they have worked on in a resident's garage, is aggravating. Having to
dodge people and put up with shop noise is ridiculous in the country.
8/1/2022 7:42 PM
22 Areas that are developed need to fit in with surounding area with a uniform kind of style with
parking, entrance on frontage roads, and landscaping
8/1/2022 6:41 PM
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Packet Pg. 98 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Parking Lot A Parking Lot B
Parking Lot C Parking Lot D
Q9 Community Character: Below are four images of different parking lots. Rank the below images
from least appropriate for Pittsylvania County to most appropriate for Pittsylvania County: (Select one
ranking for each image):
Answered: 152 Skipped: 56
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Packet Pg. 99 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
1 Least
appropriate
2 3 4 Most
appropriate
Parking Lot A
Parking Lot B
Parking Lot C
Parking Lot D
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Packet Pg. 100 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
8.55%
13
8.55%
13
36.18%
55
46.71%
71 152
13.16%
20
50.00%
76
26.32%
40
10.53%
16 152
9.87%
15
16.45%
25
26.32%
40
47.37%
72 152
76.97%
117
10.53%
16
4.61%
7
7.89%
12 152
1 (LEAST APPROPRIATE)2 3 4 (MOST APPROPRIATE)TOTAL
Parking Lot A
Parking Lot B
Parking Lot C
Parking Lot D
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Packet Pg. 101 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
#RESPONSES DATE
1 Gravel lots are best for environment. Rain water can get into the ground and prevent flooding.9/2/2022 10:08 PM
2 I like to see more vegetation and natural landscape to keep with the character and beauty of
Virginia.
9/2/2022 9:47 PM
3 Size and appearance 9/2/2022 8:58 PM
4 Lot A allows more parking yet simple and easy to maintain and keep nice looking 9/2/2022 8:35 PM
5 Visual appeal 9/2/2022 7:50 PM
6 Parking lot C is the most appealing. Parking lot D is least appealing.9/2/2022 6:44 PM
7 (A)Trees within the parking area provide oxygen & shade and are visually appealing; (B)trees
on perimeter are second best; (C)too difficult to maneuver through; (D)no shade, stark and
unattractive.
9/2/2022 2:01 PM
8 Parking lots with the most soil near it because God ain’t making anymore land 9/2/2022 1:16 PM
9 Maximizing solar shading with trees and solar power canopies reduces heat retention,
increasing water retention in smaller basins and green setback areas helps cooling, and
customer sales will increase with these welcoming features. Electric vehicle charging stations
can easily be added to solar canopies.
9/2/2022 1:06 PM
10 Parking lot C employs the use of green space within the design parking lot D has no
designated parking spaces and lacks and visual appeal.
9/2/2022 12:52 PM
11 I prefer more green spaces.9/2/2022 12:48 PM
12 I liked the parking lots with landscaping 9/2/2022 12:40 PM
13 Ranked by appearance.9/2/2022 12:37 PM
14 A and C are the nicer of the 4 images, easy to get around and pay attention. Less accidents
likely to happen, safer overall.
9/2/2022 12:27 PM
15 D is junk, B is less junk, C is meh, and A has pretty trees :)9/2/2022 11:48 AM
16 Clean, paved, pretty and lined spaces 9/2/2022 11:15 AM
17 General appearance is neat.9/2/2022 8:46 AM
18 If there has to be extra paved spaces I think that we should take the time to incorporate
plants, especially natives, into developed places to help our native animals. I would love to
see natives from places like American Meadows that helps pollinators and birds.
9/2/2022 7:41 AM
19 The more land space adds character and is visually appealing.9/2/2022 7:12 AM
20 Parking lot C is beautiful but takes up extra space that may not be available 9/2/2022 6:27 AM
21 Nature and trees are essential to maintaining a rural appearance and appreciation, as well as
assisting with nature preservation. Any parking lots should adhere to such.
9/2/2022 2:09 AM
22 The look and ease of a parking lot is key.9/1/2022 11:35 PM
23 Appearance 9/1/2022 11:19 PM
24 Virginia is one of the most naturally beautiful states in the US. To keep it that way we need to
minimize industrial encroachment not by keeping it out but by making sure there are clear
9/1/2022 11:05 PM
Q10 Community Character: Please explain why you ranked the parking lot images in the way
you did.
Answered: 109 Skipped: 99
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Packet Pg. 102 Attachment: Attachment C - Public Engagement Summary (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
natural buffers between parking lots businesses and public roads. We all have a obligation to
keep Virginia both beautiful and fruitful.
25 cost and use of available space 9/1/2022 11:01 PM
26 Greenery is better 9/1/2022 10:45 PM
27 Green space, aesthetics 9/1/2022 10:31 PM
28 Looks 9/1/2022 10:15 PM
29 Curb Appeal 100% influenced my decision. Green and full of plants, we’ll marked lines and an
overall clean appearance makes parking lot C the best. Unfortunately parking lot D is more
common amongst the county, and keeps getting worse. Money should be spent converting our
county’s parking lots to resemble C !
9/1/2022 10:10 PM
30 All parking lots should have vegetation and trees to lessen heat 9/1/2022 9:54 PM
31 Areas of landscaping made the lot less commercial. Trees in the islands are GREAT to park
near on our hot summer days. Centra in Danville has amazing landscaping..and plants are my
thing.
9/1/2022 9:47 PM
32 Picture can not be seen to tell anything 9/1/2022 9:43 PM
33 I like the look of the parking lot with trees and not a lot of things to go around loke in c.9/1/2022 9:32 PM
34 Putting visual or physical obstructions in parking lots causes confusion and inhibits traffic flow.
Coleman marketplace and Danville mall parking lots are unsafe and cause unnecessary
bottlenecking of traffic in areas where people are already distracted.
9/1/2022 9:16 PM
35 Green space breaks up the heat island created by pavement and is better for storm water
runoff control and treatment
9/1/2022 9:14 PM
36 Modest expectations for our rural county. No business should go bankrupt trying to build an
"acceptable" parking lot
9/1/2022 9:10 PM
37 The appearance and possible wear and tare from use and weather conditions.9/1/2022 9:07 PM
38 It was the way it was lay out 9/1/2022 8:55 PM
39 A and C incorporate landscaping that lends to the rural and park like appeal. They also appear
well kept.
9/1/2022 8:49 PM
40 Least amount of nature destruction to most 9/1/2022 8:47 PM
41 Seems the best and safest order 9/1/2022 8:43 PM
42 Clean well maintained lots are most desirable 9/1/2022 8:42 PM
43 Because Parking lot A is very pleasing to the eye and keeps the county Nice. Parking lot D
isn’t pleasing to the eye.
9/1/2022 8:21 PM
44 Shade 9/1/2022 8:19 PM
45 If you require this expensive landscaped properties many small businesses couldn't afford to
come to Pittsylvania County.
9/1/2022 8:16 PM
46 Use of green spaces and variety of plants (trees, shrubs, flowering etc. for diversity and
pollinators). Easy to navigate and visually attractive.
9/1/2022 8:15 PM
47 Cause its ugly, why not just have beautiful grass/fields 9/1/2022 8:11 PM
48 Some were very run down with no visual appeal 9/1/2022 8:09 PM
49 Well maintained, clean 9/1/2022 8:01 PM
50 I like pulling through on parking places to drive straight out without backing up. I like trees.9/1/2022 7:57 PM
51 Rual character 9/1/2022 7:56 PM
52 Appearance 9/1/2022 7:54 PM
53 I ranked in order of professional appearance.9/1/2022 7:50 PM
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54 All four work and are adequate for parking.9/1/2022 7:50 PM
55 A has appropriate green space, lighting and parking space B has a commercial look C has to
much green space and waste of land use D looks third world awful
8/24/2022 8:20 AM
56 More pleasant looking ranked higher.8/21/2022 2:04 AM
57 Less clutter but yet still looks nice to the establishment.8/20/2022 6:30 PM
58 Appearinces 8/20/2022 3:17 PM
59 I think it the type of business, amount of traffic and type of traffic has some bearing on the
parking lot not just the aesthetics
8/20/2022 10:30 AM
60 A and c look better 8/19/2022 11:28 PM
61 more use of landscaping 8/19/2022 8:06 AM
62 Ease of traffic flow, safety of persons walking through parking area, pleasing aesthetically from
street view.
8/18/2022 2:33 PM
63 asthetically pleasing 8/17/2022 9:41 PM
64 Landscaping 8/17/2022 9:27 PM
65 Most were appealing in appearance 8/17/2022 8:42 PM
66 Clearly defined parking spots look better and help to manage vehicles.8/17/2022 4:43 PM
67 Due to purely aesthetic reasons, however, this may not always be practical 8/17/2022 2:13 PM
68 Maximum green space and trees 8/17/2022 12:57 PM
69 lighting and most parking for area 8/17/2022 12:48 PM
70 Aesthetics and practically for A and C. D is unacceptable.8/17/2022 12:48 PM
71 Estitics 8/17/2022 12:44 PM
72 Lots of green space with buffers.8/15/2022 7:50 PM
73 I think option A gives the best look without wasting space.8/15/2022 7:10 PM
74 I believe that different locations in the county have different needs to maintain their character.
The two that I rated highest seemed to fit best.
8/15/2022 1:16 PM
75 c - most eye appealing; b - hate the concrete "stops" at each parking place - trip hazard for
many people; a - love the option of pulling in, backing in, pulling straight out, etc d - too stark
8/10/2022 6:58 PM
76 Encourage Stormwater management without being too much of a burden on businesses 8/10/2022 3:24 PM
77 It strikes a Balance between appearance and ease of use.8/10/2022 1:00 PM
78 Visual appearance, amount of parking spots and adequate lighting.8/10/2022 9:06 AM
79 How they look 8/10/2022 8:44 AM
80 Overall appearance and curb appeal 8/10/2022 8:30 AM
81 Trees are nice that don’t take space but give shade to cars and area and easy to maneuver.
Grassy area of C takes too much space needed for parking spaces which would require more
area to be required for needed spaces.
8/8/2022 10:37 AM
82 Lots A and C are much more pleasing to look at than B and D 8/7/2022 4:40 PM
83 High traffic areas are seen by the most visitors and residents and parking/busy road
appearance should be as pleasant to the eye as possible while keeping nature in mind
8/6/2022 2:37 PM
84 Any parking lot should have an appropriate amount of vegetation to provide a balance in the
local ecosystem and encourage pollination.
8/5/2022 11:56 AM
85 Wasted parking. Excessive Landscaping is expensive 8/5/2022 6:19 AM
86 Parking lots with greenery & trees inside & around it with appropriate lighting are much more 8/3/2022 1:17 PM
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suitable than vast concrete lots or unkempt large blacktop lots.
87 Appealing within reason 8/3/2022 11:32 AM
88 Just the visual appeal 8/3/2022 10:58 AM
89 Each one needed a rank 8/3/2022 7:03 AM
90 They just look nicer 8/3/2022 6:37 AM
91 Green space and trees make parking lots more inviting, provide shade, and habitat for wildlife.
The other 2 are unattractive and look poorly maintained
8/2/2022 9:06 PM
92 A for Available parking and being able to pull through, especially when pulling a trailer or driving
long vehicle. C is second due to landscaping if parking is sufficient for customers. B is third
but blocks pull thoughts, etc. D, gravel and unsaved should only be approved for short term
parking events, or overload for limited number of customers or visitors
8/2/2022 5:00 PM
93 More open and appears to be wider 8/2/2022 3:21 PM
94 Favored trees and landscaping, both for tree cover and climate benefits and for aesthetics.8/2/2022 2:11 PM
95 Appearance and functionality 8/2/2022 1:52 PM
96 Ascetic apperance 8/2/2022 12:01 PM
97 They should be appealing to the eye and have areas of vegetation in a rural setting such as
Pittsylvania County.
8/2/2022 11:30 AM
98 Appeal and traffic flow 8/2/2022 11:01 AM
99 Localities go overboard with trees and landscaping requirements putting a burden on property
owners
8/2/2022 11:00 AM
100 Appearance, maintenance 8/2/2022 10:45 AM
101 C - Paved, with interior and exterior landscaping.8/2/2022 10:31 AM
102 If you are going to require a larger parking lot, it looks much more appealing if it’s broken up
into sections with surrounding landscaping, rather than one giant aircraft carrier asphalt
rectangle. However, there are aso businesses and situations where a simple (well maintained)
gravel lot may be appropriate. Maybe a mom-and-pop store or an agricultural business for
example. Regardless, I would hope the county would like to avoid the appearance that we just
“paved over” everthing in the name of business investment. We live in Pittsylvania County and
not Northern VA for a reason😁
8/2/2022 9:45 AM
103 Attractiveness, aesthetic value, and functionality.8/1/2022 9:47 PM
104 Plenty of parking is essential to successful businesses. The dirt path is now good. The rest of
fine.
8/1/2022 9:01 PM
105 Uuuuuu 8/1/2022 7:43 PM
106 Trees and green scape 8/1/2022 6:55 PM
107 More plantings not just a bare dirt parking lot. Looks better 8/1/2022 6:43 PM
108 Trees, grass, more attractive 8/1/2022 5:22 PM
109 Clearly marked spaces and shaded areas are important 8/1/2022 4:46 PM
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Community Character: For Questions 11, 12 and 13 select the image from each pairing that looks
the most appealing to you: (Select one image for each pairing):
Image 1 Image 2
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36.42%55
63.58%96
Q12 PAIR #2
Answered: 151 Skipped: 57
TOTAL 151
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Image 1
Image 2
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Image 1
Image 2
Image 1 Image 2
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9.27%14
90.73%137
Q13 PAIR #3
Answered: 151 Skipped: 57
TOTAL 151
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Image 1
Image 2
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Image 1
Image 2
Image 1 Image 2
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#RESPONSES DATE
1 Sign are individually designed for each company let them draw the attention they need too
promote their business. And out of voting signs.
9/2/2022 10:14 PM
2 Simple and low height, less city like 9/2/2022 9:48 PM
3 Overall size and clarity 9/2/2022 9:00 PM
4 Nicely spaced, visible sign that are neat and organized 9/2/2022 8:36 PM
5 Not trashy 9/2/2022 7:51 PM
6 They look more professional 9/2/2022 6:49 PM
7 Uncluttered 9/2/2022 2:02 PM
8 Brick signs look more tasteful and too many advertising signs look tacky 9/2/2022 1:17 PM
9 Quality signage and at lower heights keep eyes focused on traffic and pedestrians, and visual
blight.
9/2/2022 1:16 PM
10 The signs are attractive and not distracting. A field full of political signs is distracting and
normally remains long after an election is over.
9/2/2022 12:54 PM
11 Uncluttered appeals to me the most 9/2/2022 12:49 PM
12 Not too many signs but clear signs you can easily see while driving 9/2/2022 12:41 PM
13 Keep signage small and uncluttered.9/2/2022 12:40 PM
14 Nice and clean look, able to read each 9/2/2022 12:27 PM
15 Looks classier to have things less cluttered. Sets us apart from others - reminds me of that
pretty town outside of Greensboro: Oak Ridge has a classy vibe
9/2/2022 11:49 AM
16 Clean, not cluttered and not so in-your-face.9/2/2022 11:16 AM
17 More orderly and residential appearance 9/2/2022 8:48 AM
18 I like the more modest and natural look.9/2/2022 7:44 AM
19 Simple is better 9/2/2022 7:13 AM
20 Less clutter, easy to understand 9/2/2022 6:28 AM
21 Simplicity and class. The images I selected portray as close as the survey allowed for such.9/2/2022 2:10 AM
22 The other images were too busy.9/1/2022 11:37 PM
23 Appearance! Neatness cleanliness 9/1/2022 11:20 PM
24 Laws need to be in place to make the person or business responsible to remove all temporary
signs as well as any harm that comes from them. I have seen far too many of those signs end
up in road ways or tangled around lawnmowers.
9/1/2022 11:10 PM
25 Simple and clean 9/1/2022 10:45 PM
26 Aesthetics 9/1/2022 10:31 PM
27 Looks better 9/1/2022 10:17 PM
28 Once again Curb Appeal ! These images I selected give off the persona that the people in the 9/1/2022 10:12 PM
Q14 Community Character: Please explain what appeals to you about the images you selected.
Answered: 113 Skipped: 95
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area care about where they live.
29 Neater appearance 9/1/2022 10:01 PM
30 With internet the political signs are a thing of the past they should not be allowed anywhere 9/1/2022 9:57 PM
31 Signage was smaller and more tasteful preserving the rural feel of the county.9/1/2022 9:49 PM
32 I like the low impact sinage for retail. I like all the political signs. People should have the right
to have there sign out there, and not be limited.
9/1/2022 9:34 PM
33 Keep signage up high so sightlines aren't obstructed. Safer for traffic flow and better for people
to be able to see businesses etc. Political campaign signs are ugly whether there are 1 or
1000.
9/1/2022 9:19 PM
34 The overall look of the sign for the shopping center, where you’ll drive in to find the smaller
stores, but the fast food type signs need to be more visible since they have individual
entrances. I don’t think candidate signs matter that much since they’re temporary.
9/1/2022 9:18 PM
35 Visibility 9/1/2022 9:11 PM
36 The design 9/1/2022 9:08 PM
37 How they was low to the ground and easy to read 9/1/2022 8:56 PM
38 They are neat and tidy and not distracting .9/1/2022 8:53 PM
39 Less intrusion is better 9/1/2022 8:48 PM
40 The neatness of the signs 9/1/2022 8:44 PM
41 Neatness and clean lines is best for signage. Political signs should be about education and
everyone having a voice and a choice no limits.
9/1/2022 8:44 PM
42 Very clean look 9/1/2022 8:22 PM
43 Not cluttered 9/1/2022 8:21 PM
44 Easy to see but not too bold.9/1/2022 8:19 PM
45 They look the cleanest and most presentable for a small town 9/1/2022 8:18 PM
46 Signage is tasteful and less obtrusive 9/1/2022 8:16 PM
47 They images i clicked look better 9/1/2022 8:12 PM
48 Less is more 9/1/2022 8:09 PM
49 Less commercial feel, has an aesthetic seen in more upscale areas 9/1/2022 8:02 PM
50 I like the less crowded look.9/1/2022 7:58 PM
51 Personal preference 9/1/2022 7:57 PM
52 Less is more 9/1/2022 7:55 PM
53 I don’t understand the question here. All are appropriate depending on the location.9/1/2022 7:54 PM
54 Clear and simple to understand 8/24/2022 8:21 AM
55 Nicer looking without clutter 8/21/2022 2:06 AM
56 Organized and well maintained 8/20/2022 6:31 PM
57 Can see better.8/20/2022 4:23 PM
58 Signs need to serve the purpose of letting the consumer know how to get to a business without
being gawdy. Nothing is more frustrating than driving trough an area, Google says there is a
certain place to eat and you can find it on the map but need a sign to get you to the parking lot
and its a sign about the size of a hub cap
8/20/2022 10:35 AM
59 Less clutter, minimal, clean look.8/19/2022 11:29 PM
60 signage in one central spot 8/19/2022 8:08 AM
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61 other communities have rules whereby signs have to be less obtrusive and combined in one
area, we should do that
8/18/2022 3:35 PM
62 Gives businesses adequate signage without undo costs for an elaborate display that is not in
line with area. Also the temporary signage should be limited in quantity because of looks and
litter from blowing around not pickup as trash.
8/18/2022 2:47 PM
63 Pair A is less obtrusive, pair C is simply free speech 8/18/2022 8:40 AM
64 less clutter is best 8/17/2022 9:42 PM
65 Smaller and less busy look 8/17/2022 9:28 PM
66 to much clutter, hard to look for a business you are looking for 8/17/2022 8:44 PM
67 I chose the images most organized and readable.8/17/2022 3:35 PM
68 purely aesthetic reasons, however, it may not be the most practical 8/17/2022 2:15 PM
69 Less clutter, lower signage, less light pollution 8/17/2022 1:00 PM
70 #1 most stores with less signage #2 easier to see when driving #3 less cluttered 8/17/2022 12:51 PM
71 no commdent 8/17/2022 12:51 PM
72 Low signage No yard signs clustered 8/17/2022 12:45 PM
73 Neatest 8/17/2022 12:45 PM
74 Less is more.8/15/2022 7:51 PM
75 I favor clean, usable signage without a lot of clutter.8/15/2022 7:12 PM
76 I believe that the images that I choose would maintain the rural feel of the county.8/15/2022 1:17 PM
77 #1 - less busy - easier to read #2 can see the business from a distance #3 looks messy, driver
distraction
8/10/2022 7:01 PM
78 Signs should be orderly 8/10/2022 3:25 PM
79 None 8/10/2022 1:56 PM
80 Less clutter 8/10/2022 1:32 PM
81 Less clutter but sometimes all low store signs can dangerously block visibility 8/10/2022 1:02 PM
82 Easy to read. Some images are too "busy" and overwhelming.8/10/2022 9:07 AM
83 Less cumbersome 8/10/2022 8:45 AM
84 Simple to see and understand 8/10/2022 8:32 AM
85 Signs should not be close to ground which obstructs traffic view. Campaign signs should be
removed within 48 hours of election. One campaign sign per candidate.
8/8/2022 10:45 AM
86 11 and 12 are much neater to look at and 13 much less messy looking.8/7/2022 4:42 PM
87 Clean and neat 8/6/2022 2:38 PM
88 There is no need for fancy signs at plazas, or restrictions for political marketing.8/5/2022 11:58 AM
89 Zoning departments lean more Commie every day 8/5/2022 6:21 AM
90 Very tall or multiple varied signs are unsightly. The signs I selected were more visually
appealing to me & would give a more upscale feel to businesses or areas yet still advertise
their business, etc.
8/3/2022 1:20 PM
91 Less is more 8/3/2022 10:58 AM
92 Looks nicer 8/3/2022 6:38 AM
93 I selected images that looked more refined and up to date. Political signage is an eyesore and
should be required to be removed within 48 after polls close, with a per sign, monetary penalty
for the landowner AND all persons/organizations shown on the signage
8/2/2022 9:09 PM
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94 Loss clutter ans chaos 8/2/2022 5:11 PM
95 More information displayed, at accommodating height for fist two. Third pic is to busy.8/2/2022 5:08 PM
96 looks neat 8/2/2022 3:22 PM
97 Simplicity. Easier on the eyes. Easier to take in information - not too much information. Less
dangerous distraction.
8/2/2022 2:13 PM
98 Cleanliness and order 8/2/2022 1:53 PM
99 I hate McDonalds, but the simplicity of the sign works well; those who live in the community
either have good taste or they do not - choices for selection are highly manipulative - the most
repulsive or most expensive for taxpayers.
8/2/2022 1:47 PM
100 Less cluttered. The county doesn't need any eyesores.8/2/2022 11:32 AM
101 Signs are meant to assist the driving public in located a business therefore should be seen
easily. Localities that require a monument style signs then require trees and landscaping the
developer has not choice but to block the sign. Less trees and landscaping is better
8/2/2022 11:03 AM
102 Less congestion 8/2/2022 11:02 AM
103 Appearance 8/2/2022 10:46 AM
104 Low profile......shows what is available but does not disturb the overall landscape.8/2/2022 10:32 AM
105 Avoids clutter and a “skyline” that is nothing but signs on poles. People have GPS now. If they
want to go to Walmart, they don’t need a house-sized sign 40 ft in the air to find it. I think
Hilton Head has a similar good idea to avoid excessive signage, but admittedly, they take it
too far to the extreme where you can’t find some places WITHOUT a GPS maps.
8/2/2022 9:52 AM
106 neat, height restricted 8/1/2022 10:07 PM
107 They are neat with less clutter and chaos. More professional and higher curb appeal.8/1/2022 9:48 PM
108 1. Looks just fine. People need clear signs to show directions. 2. as 1. People need signs. 3.
Political signs are fine as Long as they’re cleaned up quickly. 4. Fine to use signs- just clean
them up quickly.
8/1/2022 9:06 PM
109 Less is better. Some were classier 8/1/2022 7:43 PM
110 Keep it it toned down !!!8/1/2022 6:57 PM
111 Less is more. Not a hodgepoge. Political signs should be removed after elections. Many
weeks are past last election and old signs still out on road ways. Looks bad with all the signs
politicians and businesses put out that become projectile during storms.
8/1/2022 6:47 PM
112 Less obtrusive 8/1/2022 5:24 PM
113 Higher signs make it easier to see for drivers. Too many signs in 1 area is a distraction to
divers.
8/1/2022 4:48 PM
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Q15 Community Character: Would you agree or disagree with the following design statements?
(Check one for each):
Answered: 150 Skipped: 58
Please see next page
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0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Agree Disagree No Opinion
Landscaping should be required as a buffer between business/
industrial development and
agricultural or residential property.
Tree cover should be required for business and industrial
developments to preserve
character and protect
environmental resources.
Tree cover should be required for
residential developments to preserve character and protect environmental resources.
Dumpsters, loading areas, and electrical/mechanical equipment
should be screened from off-site
views.
Fence height should be limited
in business and residential zoned districts.
Lighting height should be
limited in business and
industrial zoned districts to prevent light pollution and preserve dark skies.
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83.33%
125
10.00%
15
6.67%
10 150
80.67%
121
12.00%
18
7.33%
11 150
74.00%
111
18.00%
27
8.00%
12 150
78.00%
117
10.67%
16
11.33%
17 150
39.33%
59
36.00%
54
24.67%
37 150
62.67%
94
19.33%
29
18.00%
27 150
AGREE DISAGREE NO
OPINION
TOTAL
Landscaping should be required as a buffer between business/industrial development
and agricultural or residential property.
Tree cover should be required for business and industrial developments to preserve
character and protect environmental resources.
Tree cover should be required for residential developments to preserve character and
protect environmental resources.
Dumpsters, loading areas, and electrical/mechanical equipment should be screened
from off-site views.
Fence height should be limited in business and residential zoned districts.
Lighting height should be limited in business and industrial zoned districts to prevent
light pollution and preserve dark skies.
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51.01%76
48.99%73
Total Respondents: 149
#YES:DATE
1 I do not want to have a mobile home park or camper park in my area 9/2/2022 10:28 PM
2 Let people use their land as they see fit. Before you cause a burden or financial hardship. Be
kind, it take a while for trees too grow too hide things.
9/2/2022 10:25 PM
3 Residential abandoned property or no yard maintenance 9/2/2022 9:06 PM
4 We as citizens moved to the county to have peace, space and enjoy our property without
major restrictions, disruption, HOA etc. If we wanted to be in a busy, high traffic area we
would’ve stayed in the city. With the last 15 years many residents have moved from the city
limits for these reason and we do not want them bringing g the very situations they left with
them to the county.
9/2/2022 8:40 PM
5 Listen to the residents before rubber stamping rezoning 9/2/2022 7:53 PM
6 We do not need any more solar farms.9/2/2022 2:04 PM
7 Proposals that cause or result in spot zoning need to be stopped at an administrator level.
Notifications to larger areas and distances to encourage public participation will result in less
environmental impacts and better developments. Comprehensive planning and documentation
must be accessible to all without restrictions, democracy and public participation suffers when
FOIA requests are denied to out of state residents.
9/2/2022 1:38 PM
8 The county needs more safe places for residents to park and walk or ride bikes; parks and
playgrounds for families to enjoy as well as encourage physical activity
9/2/2022 12:52 PM
9 Irrelevant but...the last question reminded me of the horrible lights at the middle school across
the street at Tunstall Middle School. Light pollution and does not preserve the area - shut down
the lights, put up a gate and keep the trespassers off the property after dark.
9/2/2022 11:52 AM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
No
Yes:
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
No
Yes:
Q16 Are there any other topics that have not been addressed that you would like to identify, or
do you have any general comments or suggestions? If yes, please identify in the comments.
Answered: 149 Skipped: 59
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10 I feel like it is a shame to have waisted so much usable farm land in Climax for a solar farm.
No more land is being made, but plenty of people have room on their roof to have added
enough solar panels to help out their individual households. Even if the solar farm is moved
now that land can no longer be usable as farm land, and if someone attempts to farm it it will
not produce to the level that it once had or it will have to undergo major work to add in the
organic material that was stripped away. If solar is going to be the next big thing then
individuals should be approached about putting them on their roof or somewhere in their yard
as to not use up farm land, and there is the ability to plant things like natives around it so it
would not be waisted space.
9/2/2022 7:52 AM
11 Improve water quality!!!!9/2/2022 2:47 AM
12 The impact on Wildlife needs to be factored in as well. Barriers lighting and absolutely NO use
of outside poisons.
9/1/2022 11:14 PM
13 I’m sure this isn’t the first time you’ve heard this, but I will say my piece. Stop with the solar
panels! Not only are they eye sores, but I along with many other county residents hate that the
land is being used this way. Let’s invest this land in ways that benefit residents of the county
along with preserving the environment.
9/1/2022 10:16 PM
14 The number of animals Should limited based in acreage especially where houses are close
together in a A-1 agricultural area
9/1/2022 10:04 PM
15 Our county needs to grow and develop of course, but often people move here BECAUSE our
area feels like a "Mayberry". The county also needs to be mindful of the citizens that live on
these family farms, barely getting by. That population needs to continue to be allowed to place
singlewides or doublewides on a corner of the farm, it may be the only way the can live on their
own. ADUs and tiny houses could also help keep younger populations from moving out of the
county to live in apartments. We need to be better at the regulations re solar farms, they look
awful, Climax is ruined. There should have been a larger setback and a landscape plan to try
to preserve the natural beauty. That's goal with everything, allow growth but preserve natural
beauty and the rural way of life.
9/1/2022 10:02 PM
16 Please bring in more family entertainment 9/1/2022 9:59 PM
17 Allow people to temporarily live in campers while building a house 9/1/2022 9:56 PM
18 Less regulation always leads to greater prosperity.9/1/2022 9:22 PM
19 The dark night sky is very important. It’s one of the reasons we chose to live in the northern
part of the county. But even some agricultural uses are overlit and obscure the night sky. I
would love to see some lighting controls on businesses as well as a guess.
9/1/2022 9:22 PM
20 The county road ways need to be addressed. The roads need widening to accommodate large
vehicles that share the roads and better means to enhance the property.
9/1/2022 9:13 PM
21 Not necessarily related to zoning, but I would appreciate a leash law or something similar for
domestic animals. Dogs running at large in the county is a particular issue. They approach us
on our own land agressively.
9/1/2022 8:20 PM
22 Need a Cannabis Dispensary, ABC stores are everywhere, Cannabis is safer than alcohol 9/1/2022 8:14 PM
23 No more solar farms 9/1/2022 8:03 PM
24 Junk should not be allowed in county residential areas. Our neighbor's yard looks like a junk
yard.
9/1/2022 8:00 PM
25 There should be no limit on inoperable vehicles in residential areas 9/1/2022 7:59 PM
26 More trash sites or eliminate the trash fee.9/1/2022 7:57 PM
27 Your zoning ordinance regarding staying overnight in a camper on private land is overly
intrusive
9/1/2022 7:57 PM
28 mobile homes should be limited to one per acreage tract 8/24/2022 8:23 AM
29 If you are building a home on your property in the county and you own at least 10 acres or
more, you should be able to live in a fully contained camper or RV for a set out of time on your
property to get your house completed.
8/21/2022 2:13 AM
30 Residential areas should No be trashy looking 8/20/2022 4:26 PM
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C | Community Survey Results
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31 Agriculture/farmers should be allowed to do what is needed to protect and ensure their
livelihood is not impacted by new regulations and bureaucratic nonsense that keeps them from
working their land. If they cannot turn a profit our green spaces will go away. Leave the farmers
alone. Industrial development should not be allowed to expand into residential areas. Solar
farms should not be seen by nearby residents. Increased buffers and more stringent
regulations regarding sustainability and pollution. This county MUST require every panel to be
recycled and not landfilled in our county! This includes BOTH landfills!! Put the residents
health safety and well-being first. Stop putting the dollar first. Common sense ordinances. DO
NOT BURDEN residents with lawn mowing ordinances! (As danville city does) county
residents owning more than one lot would be mowing continuously. Rural residents are in the
county for the enjoyment of nature. Do not turn it into a metropolitan area or continue to allow
industrial sprawl ruining residents quiet communities with noise, air, water, and other polluting
activities. This county has two mega dumps, there needs to be an ordinance stating there will
be NO more expanding or establishment of landfills! We need more recycling and less
landfilling! People don’t want to live/raise a family next to these filthy dumps!
8/19/2022 11:55 PM
32 CPTED DESIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR GOVT AND SCHOOL BUILDINGS 8/19/2022 8:09 AM
33 The county should work on protecting the rural character, and natural, historic, and scenic
resources of the county, and help the county’s economy grow through tourism. Some of the
historic themes that are specific to Pittsylvania County include Tobacco heritage, historic
Mills, Prehistoric sites, African American History, Rural Churches, Railroad History,
Revolutionary War, some Civil War history, 18th century structures, early Log homes and
vernacular houses (Early Settlers), Courthouses, Rural stores, “Lost” towns, and Landscapes
in general. Pittsylvania County has so many historic resources to offer, but few people (even
locals) are aware of them because they have not been promoted and marketed in any official
countywide way. The historical societies and museums do great jobs, but as volunteer
organizations they can only do so much. We need an official survey of historic sites in the
county. The county could have signage at sites and brochures that link them to a driving tour;
the use of funding to stabilize buildings, Heritage training and workshops, Oral History Project,
etc. Heritage tourism is a way to support, enhance and market a region’s distinctive and
authentic culture. Tourism studies show that heritage tourists travel more often, stay longer
and spend more. It creates jobs and business opportunities. Heritage tourism has an additional
benefit of helping to protect historic resources, which can in turn promote community pride and
improve the quality of life for local residents. Tourism in general helps local communities
develop a more sustainable economy. In a place like Virginia- a state with so much rich
history- it is inconceivable to me that every locality does not have some type of tourism
program with a big part dedicated to heritage tourism. Eco tourism, also geology-based
tourism. Preservation VA/ VCU’s Center for Urban and Regional Analysis on the benefits of
heritage tourism: https://cura.vcu.edu/media/cura/pdfs/cura-
documents/HeritageTourism_FINALE_02-16-17.pdf
8/18/2022 3:49 PM
34 If a property is actively in use for agricultural purposes will it remain in A-1 status or will it still
be subject to the Zoning Ordinance changes? Changes will affect tax implications making it
even more difficult to survive in farming in Pittsylvania County.
8/18/2022 3:03 PM
35 limitations on mobile home parks 8/18/2022 8:42 AM
36 Solar farms do not need to be woven throughout a residential area and need greater setbacks
and foliage buffers.
8/17/2022 9:31 PM
37 Please consider getting rid of or greatly reducing parking minimums if they are currently in use.
They waste valuable space for future development.
8/17/2022 4:46 PM
38 Detailed discussions on solar farms requirements.8/17/2022 3:38 PM
39 I was not satisfied with a lot of my answers. It all depends on the situation. I think most private
individuals, or at home businesses should be able to reasonably due what they want with the
land they payed for. Businesses are a little different. There are exceptions to everything
8/17/2022 2:19 PM
40 Minimum lot size for well and septic should be one acre or more.8/17/2022 1:09 PM
41 Solar farms are an eyesore and should be limited and not visible from residential areas. Not in
most agricultural communities.
8/17/2022 12:55 PM
42 No section 8 housing 8/17/2022 12:46 PM
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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43 Specific lots sizes where wells, septic systems, and setbacks encroaching on adjacent land
owners needs addressing.
8/15/2022 7:55 PM
44 I think that zoning regulations should allow for more flexibility in land use related to residential
and agricultural. Large residendial lots should be (greater than two acres) should allow for
detached Accessory Dwelling Units. I also believe that large residential properties (greater than
3 acres) should be more easily changed to agricultural.
8/15/2022 1:29 PM
45 Need to encourage more housing and mixture of affordable and workforce housing 8/10/2022 3:26 PM
46 Allowing these damn solar farms without proper notice to the public 8/10/2022 2:00 PM
47 My sub-division has rules. At the beginning you said all zoning rules would be rewritten. Does
that mean out with all the old?
8/10/2022 11:04 AM
48 As stated before, this County desperately needs revenue from businesses! Hotels, car
dealerships, Wal-Mart, restaurants, etc.
8/10/2022 9:10 AM
49 Solar farms are a hot topic right now- need to insure companies are made responsible for
cleanups at time of decommissioning
8/10/2022 8:37 AM
50 No unreasonable setbacks. Farms should be exempt And farming should be encouraged in
county no matter the size of acreage. Spreading of manure and biosolids should be permitted
and discouraged near water sources, wells etc or before rain is predicted.
8/8/2022 10:58 AM
51 I feel the county should look at allowing a special use permit to allow people to live in a RV or
camper during the construction or repair of a home. This permit should have time limits and the
property would need to have water and a way to remove the waste. This could be done by the
drain field or a tank. Currently you are not allowed to live in an RV or camper, this permit would
only allow this during the construction or the repairs of your current home. After the occupancy
permit is issued for the home under construction, the special use permit allowing you to live in
the RV or Camper would expire. This type of special use permit would be good for one year
and would require an inspection to make sure utilities, water, and wastewater are correct and
meets code.
8/8/2022 8:20 AM
52 A rezoning law to not allow activity such as target shooting in neighborhoods where the houses
are close together. No one should be allowed to target shoot 100 ft from an occupied dwelling.
8/7/2022 4:47 PM
53 The no sleeping in a camper/rv for any reason ordinance is excessively prohibitive. Full time
living in an RV is against the law in most places and that's fine. It's a good law as the vehicles
aren't designed for full time use. But not allowing someone to sleep in an rv while using their
land as a weekend recreational/hunting property really makes zero sense. Especially when
zoning states you can primitive camp all over the property anywhere you want. This needs to
be addressed. It's economically prohibitive and reduces recreational land value compared to
surrounding counties.
8/6/2022 2:47 PM
54 Specific development limitations on new jail locations and to prevent certain government
development on private lands in rural areas.
8/5/2022 8:27 AM
55 Slow down on solar farms 8/4/2022 10:54 PM
56 Although I agree that restrictions must be made to preserve safety, air quality, etc-I think
restrictions, especially on agricultural land or individual residential land must be limited so as
to protect the homeowner’s and land owner’s rights as well. A delicate balance must be
maintained. Also, consideration for safety on our secondary roads must be a priority when
considering new industry, businesses or developments. Whereas I agree a business/apartment
dumpsters should be protected from view—-the County’s dumpsters should be able to be
viewed by traffic for safety considerations. Lighting in all areas must be sufficient for safety -
more units if lower poles permitted due to light pollution, etc.
8/3/2022 1:31 PM
57 People in residential developments should not burn debris and trash 8/3/2022 7:06 AM
58 Solar farms are destroying our beautiful farm and natural areas. They are an eyesore 8/2/2022 5:13 PM
59 Address distinctions between types of industry. Address including subsidized residences in
new developments. Address need for local regulations to protect county residents in areas
proposed for state and federal approved projects. For example, the current ordinance says
projects approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission are exempt from the
Pittsylvania County zoning ordinance - as if eminent domain authority overrides local
8/2/2022 2:26 PM
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C | Community Survey Results
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regulatory authority. State and federal project approvals often depend on compliance with local
land use ordinances; they do not automatically override local government regulations.
60 The ugliness and obscenity of solar farms, and how rural areas are being destroyed.8/2/2022 1:56 PM
61 Survey was not well thought out.8/2/2022 1:50 PM
62 We need to slow down the solar farming a bit.8/2/2022 12:53 PM
63 The county needs guidelines for special use permits. For growth as residential and commercial
property owners the county needs restrictions in place to allow for positive growth. Small
businesses drive our county and we need to support that.
8/2/2022 11:38 AM
64 For new addresses, property access shall be considered, for emergency services.8/2/2022 11:10 AM
65 The less government interference !!!!!8/2/2022 11:05 AM
66 In my experience Pittsylvania County at some time in the past wrongly zoned many areas of
the County as residential when they are obviously agricultural.
8/2/2022 10:50 AM
67 Will this ordinance address the maintenance of private property (abandoned/non-registered
vehicles, height of grass/weeds, etc) or will the County require an additional ordinance?
8/2/2022 10:35 AM
68 I feel that the primary reason people like living in Pittsylvania Co is the wide open feel and the
removal from the “hustle and bustle”. There does need to be future investment to make our
communities more “vibrant” and apoealing. However, I feel that we need to develop in a
controlled, restricted manner and in a smart and gradual way, with the focus always being on
incremental improvements that maintain our rural amd close-knit community idientity. We can
become a better Pittsylvania County with more to offer both residents and visitors without
selling out and eventually becoming a miniature NOVA😁 - Mark Johnston Dry Fork, VA
8/2/2022 9:59 AM
69 If box stores build and later go out of business or move, they should be required to demolish
the old facility and return the land to a natural state if they cannot secure a tenant within 6-9
months. The same should apply to all major commercial development to include fast food
franchises, supermarket chains, automobile dealerships, etc.
8/1/2022 9:52 PM
70 County property should automatically be agricultural! That’s The whole point of living in the
county.
8/1/2022 9:08 PM
71 Residential communities should be done as residential 8/1/2022 7:46 PM
72 We need our board to take a hard look at solar farms , we need to preserve our heritage as an
agricultural county . The mentality that if you own it you should be able to do what you want
with is not a legitimate argument . The truth is , your rights end , when you intrude on my rights
. Thank you . John gibson
8/1/2022 7:02 PM
73 Danville and other towns are not appealing to me. Discourages me from shopping,eating or
playing in these towns
8/1/2022 6:49 PM
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12.08%18
8.05%12
12.75%19
9.40%14
51.68%77
6.04%9
Total Respondents: 149
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Under 5 years
5 to 9 years
10 to 19 years
20 to 29 years
30 or more
years
I do not live in Pittsylvania County
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Under 5 years
5 to 9 years
10 to 19 years
20 to 29 years
30 or more years
I do not live in Pittsylvania County
Q17 If you are a resident of Pittsylvania County, how long have you lived in the County? (Choose
one):
Answered: 149 Skipped: 59
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment C | Community Survey Results
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Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment D: Proposed Ordinance Structure
Proposed Ordinance Structure | Page 1 of 2
Proposed Table of Contents
The following general organization is proposed for the updated Zoning Ordinance:
Article I – General Provisions
Division 1. Enactment and Authority
Division 2. Ordinance Conflicts and
Interpretation
Division 3. Zoning Districts Map
Division 4. Transition of Regulations after
Adoption
Article II – Administration
Division 1. Zoning Administrator
Division 2. Planning Commission
Division 3. Board of Zoning Appeals
Division 4. Enforcement
Division 5. Fees
Division 6. Taxes and Expenses Paid
Article III – Permits and Applications
Division 1. In General
Division 2. Zoning Text and Map
Amendments
Division 3. Conditional Zoning and Proffers
Division 4. Special Use Permits
Division 5. Variances
Division 6. Site Plans
Division 7. Zoning Permits
Division 8. Certificates of Occupancy
Division 9. Written Determinations
Division 10. Appeals
Division 11. Public Hearings and
Notifications
Article IV – Primary Zoning Districts
Division 1. Establishment and Purpose
Division 2. General District Standards
Division 3. Exemptions and Encroachments
Division 4. Agricultural Districts Dimensional
Standards
Division 5. Residential Districts Dimensional
Standards
Division 6. Commercial Districts Dimensional
Standards
Division 7. Industrial Districts Dimensional
Standards
Division 8. Planned Development
Dimensional Standards
Division 9. Conservation Districts
Dimensional Standards
Article V – Overlay Zoning Districts
Division 1. Establishment and Purpose
Division 2. Lake Surface Overlay District
Division 3. Floodplain Overlay District
Division 4. Airport Overlay District
Article VI – Use Matrix
Division 1. General
Division 2. Use Table
Article VII – Use Performance Standards
Division 1. General
Division 2. Agricultural Use Standards
Division 3. Residential Use Standards
Division 4. Public/Civic/Recreational Use
Standards
Division 5. Business Use Standards
Division 6. Industrial Use Standards
Division 7. Miscellaneous Use Standards
5.a.e
Packet Pg. 122 Attachment: Attachment D - Proposed Ordinance Structure (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Attachment D: Proposed Ordinance Structure
Proposed Ordinance Structure | Page 2 of 2
Article VIII – Community Design Standards
Division 1. General
Division 2. Lighting
Division 3. Landscaping and Screening
Division 4. Walls and Fences
Division 5. Parking and Loading
Division 6. Signs
Division 7. Open Space
Article IX – Nonconforming Uses, Lots, and
Structures
Division 1. General
Division 2. Nonconforming Uses
Division 3. Nonconforming Lots of Record
Division 4. Nonconforming Structures,
Buildings, and Improvements
Division 5. Repairs and Maintenance
Article X – Definitions
Division 1. Word Usage
Division 2. Definitions
5.a.e
Packet Pg. 123 Attachment: Attachment D - Proposed Ordinance Structure (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Why Protect Agricultural and Rural Lands?
The Berkley Group | bgllc.net
GUIDE TO RURAL PRESERVATION
Communities have a significant interest in ensuring sustainable, productive agricultural and forestal lands. Productive working lands provide our
nation’s food supply and contribute to many public benefits, including environmental quality, wildlife habitat, open space, and community character.
Yet, farm and forest lands face significant risk from development pressure, severe weather, and industry shifts. Virginia has one of the highest rates
of agricultural land conversion in the US. According to the American Farmland Trust, 340,000 acres of agricultural land in Virginia were converted
to urban/highly developed and low density residential land uses between 2001-20161.
1 https://farmlandinfo.org/statistics/virginia-statistics/
Planning tools and policies, adopted by the governing body, can manage and
direct growth to help preserve the rural and agricultural character of
communities. Land use tools in the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning and
Subdivision Ordinances are critical for guiding growth and reducing land
division and development. Additional tools for farmland protection include
easements and conservation programs, preferential taxation, and farm link
programs.
How can Localities Protect Agricultural and Rural Lands?
ConservationEasements
Land UseTaxation
Land UsePlanningTools
Farm Link Programs
Solutions for
Rural Preservation
ComprehensivePlan ZoningOrdinance SubdivisionOrdinance
Comprehensive Plans set the stage for regulations. Strategies that are included in a Comprehensive Plan can be the first steps in taking action for protecting farmland.
Zoning Ordinances are a place to supply specific regulations that can prevent or promote development in specific ways. Regulatory measures used in zoning ordinances to preserve or retain farmland include district use limitations, density allowances, and development standards.
The regulations of Subdivision Ordinances vary from locality to locality, but the purpose is to assure orderly division with appropriate improvements.
Land Use Planning Tools For Rural Preservation
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Packet Pg. 124 Attachment: AgricultureRuralPreservationGuideCompressed (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Solutions for Rural Preservation Beyond Land Use Tools
Virginia Code § 58.1-3231 allows localities, by ordinance, to give
preferential tax treatment to agricultural and forest lands. A locality may
choose to tax the following land uses on use value, rather than market
value: agriculture, horticulture, forestal, and/or open space. Land Use
Taxation reduces the tax burden for farmers to help encourage the
economic viability of agriculture.
Taxpayers owning property that meets the qualifications may enter the
program under one or more land use categories. Taxpayers must
provide proof of the land status/eligibility and meet acreage
requirements. Agricultural and horticultural use assessment requires 5+
acres; forestal use assessment requires 20+ acres; and open space use
assessment is reserved for certain historical, recreational, or park land.
Land Use Taxation
The Berkley Group | bgllc.net
GUIDE TO RURAL PRESERVATION
Conservation Easements
Virginia Code § 10.1-1009 allows any locality or land trust to purchase, or
accept donation of, development rights and hold a conservation easement for
periods of five years to perpetuity. Whether purchased or donated, the
landowner retains use of the land, and the easements and restrictions convey if
the property is sold.
Purchase of Development Rights (PDR):
A PDR is a conservation easement purchased by a willing buyer from a willing
seller (enabled under Virginia Code § 15.2-1800). Funding for PDR’s are
typically provided through a locality, state agencies such as DCR and USDA, and
regional agencies such as electric cooperatives and environmental councils.
Purchase price is established by appraisals or a local easement valuation system,
typically based on the difference between the value of the land as restricted
versus highest/best use. PDRs specific to agriculture are sometimes called
Purchase of Agricultural Conservation Easements (PACE) and may consider soil
quality, threat of development, and future agricultural viability.
Donation of Development Rights:
Property owners may also voluntarily place an easement on their property,
without compensation. Some conservation easement donations can provide
the landowner with tax incentives and tax breaks.
Other Programs:
Additional conservation easement programs like Agriculture Conservation
Easement Program (ACEP), Agriculture Land Easements (ALE), Virginia
Outdoor Foundation (VOF), and Ducks Unlimited (DU) are available; each is
administered by different agencies or entities and have separate conditions and
types of protection.
Farm Link programs connect buyers with landowners who wish to
sell their property but want their land to stay in agriculture. In
Virginia, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer
Services (VDACS) operates the program. Established by Virginia
Code § 3.2-202, the program features a database that connects
retiring farmers with emerging or expanding farmers who are
seeking new properties for production.
Solutions for Rural Preservation Through Land Use Tools
Farm Link Programs
Comprehensive Plan
The Comprehensive Plan is a long-range planning policy that guides a locality’s development, zoning, and capital improvement decisions. The Comprehensive Plan should identify the desired location, type, and intensity of development, including areas where prime farmland and rural land uses will be preserved. The Plan can identify appropriate areas for utility extensions to guide growth and provide criteria for intensive land uses (e.g., solar), conservation easements, and transfer of development rights programs. The Plan can also be used to evaluate and prioritize other strategies in this guide.
Subdivision Ordinances ensure orderly division of land with
appropriate improvements. In rural areas, subdivision ordinances
typically include provisions for cluster development and family
divisions – which allow for deviations from traditional development
standards under specific circumstances.
Subdivision Ordinance
Zoning Ordinances regulate the use and development of land.
Zoning requirements to preserve farmland and rural character
include district standards, use limitations, density allowances, and
design standards.
Zoning Ordinance
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District standards can be used to further farmland
and forest protection. The most common provisions
include minimum lot standards (size, width, frontage,
and building setbacks) and maximum lot coverage.
Large Lot Zoning:
Large lot agricultural zoning is commonly used to
protect farmland from conversion to residential and
commercial uses. Large lot zoning is simple to
administer and helps slow growth and protect rural
character. Minimum acreages vary by locality, often
dependent on development pressures and
community expectations. To be effective, research
shows a minimum of 20+ acres is needed. Smaller lot
sizes (5-10 acres) are more likely to yield low-density
residential estates versus productive farms.
Density Allowances:
Area-based allowances assign development rights
based on the size of the existing, or “parent,” tract.
Two types of area-based allowances are Fixed Area
and Sliding Scale.
• Fixed Area allowances set a specific number of
dwellings that are allowed based on the size of the
parent tract (e.g., one dwelling for every 25 acres of
the original tract).
• Sliding Scale allowances determine the number of
lots that may be subdivided from a parcel at a
variable rate based on the size of the parent tract. As
the size of a parcel increases, the number of
dwellings allowed in relation to the total farm area
decreases (e.g., a 10-acre parcel might be allowed
development rights or one dwelling unit, while a
40-acre farm might be allowed development rights
for three dwelling units).
Density allowances are more effective in preserving
land for productive agriculture, while allowing
smaller lot sizes for residential development. They
also require additional administrative recordkeeping
to determine when landowners reach their limit of
permitted dwellings.
Use and Performance StandardsDistrict Standards
Zoning and Subdivision Tools for Rural Preservation
Restricting uses in agriculture or rural districts can help limit conversion of rural land to
nonagricultural uses. Agriculture districts should allow profitable agriculture operations, without
becoming a “catch-all” district for miscellaneous uses. Conditional use permits and/or
performance standards can be required for uses that would negatively impact rural character.
Standards can limit the size and extent of non-ag uses; require additional setbacks, screening, and
landscaping; and regulate lighting, noise, and signage – among other standards.
Photo: Savills, USA
The Berkley Group | bgllc.net
GUIDE TO RURAL PRESERVATION
Traditional Subdivision Cluster Subdivision
Drawings: Randall Arendt
Cluster development, or conservation development, is designed with smaller lot sizes, grouped
dwellings, and preserved open space. Rural character is maintained through buffers along property
lines and preserved open vistas.
Cluster development is a required provision, per Virginia Code § 15.2-2286.1, for localities with a
growth rate of 10%+ over the last ten years; all other localities may voluntarily include cluster
provisions. Localities may dictate minimum open space requirements by ordinance. In Virginia,
minimum open space is typically 40-70% of the total development. As an incentive, cluster
provisions may allow for greater density than allowed by-right for traditional development.
Cluster Development
5.a.f
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Virginia Code § 15.2-4405 authorizes localities to create Agricultural and Forestal Districts (AFDs). AFDs are established at the request of a landowner and
require at least 200 acres of contiguous land. To establish an AFD, a locality’s ordinance must include provisions to create AFD’s, along with appointment of an
advisory committee. Following the advisory committee’s recommendation that the proposed district be created, the Planning Commission and local governing
body hold public hearings prior to providing final approval.
AFDs protect rural character as owners voluntarily agree to forgo non-agricultural or non-forestal development for a designated period, typically four to ten
years, in exchange for incentives including Land Use Taxation eligibility. So long as a parcel remains in an AFD, a governing body may require, as a condition to
creation of the district, that any parcel in that AFD will not be developed to any more intensive use, other than more intensive agricultural or forestal uses.
Transfer of Development Rights
Agricultural and Forestal Districts (AFDs)
Zoning and Subdivision Tools for Rural Preservation
Under Virginia Code § 15.2-2316.1-2, Virginia localities may adopt
a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) ordinance. TDRs are
voluntary programs that allow landowners to sell or transfer
development rights from one property to another. Development
rights are transferred from a sending parcel to a receiving parcel
– guiding growth to appropriate areas. While the seller of the
development rights still owns their land and can continue using it,
an easement is placed on the property that prevents further
development. Sending and receiving areas must be designated in
the Comprehensive Plan. A county and an adjacent city or town
may enter into an agreement to permit the county to designate
eligible receiving areas in the city or town.
Virginia Code does not dictate how development rights are
determined. Typically, the number of development rights eligible
for transfer is calculated based on the by-right density of the
sending property. Some localities also consider existing units on
receiving properties, floodplains, and previously transferred
rights, among other considerations that reduce the number of
total development rights.
The Berkley Group | bgllc.net
GUIDE TO RURAL PRESERVATION
Cluster development, or conservation development, is designed with smaller lot sizes, grouped dwellings, and preserved open space. Rural character is maintained through buffers along property lines and preserved open vistas.Cluster development is a required provision, per Virginia Code § 15.2-2286.1, for localities with a growth rate of 10%+ over the last ten years; all other localities may voluntarily include cluster provisions. Localities may dictate minimum open space requirements by ordinance. In Virginia, minimum open space is typically 40-70% of the total development. As an incentive, cluster provisions may allow for greater density than allowed by-right for traditional development.
Sending Area
Receiving Area
Photo: CreativeCommons, user: krnjn
5.a.f
Packet Pg. 127 Attachment: AgricultureRuralPreservationGuideCompressed (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Future Land Use Map Official Zoning Map
Makes recommendations regarding physical, social,
and economic development.
Primarily regulates physical development.
Broad – dealing with concepts and policies. Specific – dealing with individual parcels and projects.
Looks to the future. Deals with development happening now.
A policy guide. Regulation.
GUIDE TO ZONING
The Berkley Group | bgllc.net
What is Zoning?
Zoning is a tool that localities use to govern the physical development of land and the kinds of uses allowed on individual property. Zoning
may also regulate the dimensional requirements for lots, buildings, and structures; the density of development; and how development
relates to its surroundings, including other buildings, open spaces, and the street. Zoning is regulated under Virginia State Code §15.2,
Chapter 22, Article 7.
Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan
The zoning ordinance is the primary tool through which a locality implements its
Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan is a high-level policy document that is used
as a decision-making guide for a locality. The plan contains a Future Land Use Map and
policies that show the desired, future location, character, type, and density of development
throughout a community. Zoning ordinances and development regulations directly
control the location, form, and character of private projects. When a development or
rezoning project comes before a locality’s decision making body they must ensure the
project meets the specific standards of the ordinance and the overarching vision of the
Comprehensive Plan. Zoning ordinances and development regulations should be
reviewed annually to ensure they achieve the goals of the plan and amended as necessary.
Zoning Text vs. Zoning Map
A zoning ordinance has two parts: Zoning Text and a map, known as the Official Zoning Map. The Zoning Text serves two important functions. First,
it explains the zoning rules that apply in each zoning district. These rules typically establish a list of land uses permitted in each district plus a series
of specific standards governing lot size, building height, and required yard and setback provisions. Second, the text sets forth a series of procedures
for administering and applying the zoning ordinance. The Official Zoning Map shows the location of the established zoning districts within a
community. Zoning districts are applied directly to parcels and are legally binding.
Divide land into districts for different uses, such as industrial,
commercial, and residential.
Regulate the size and type of building that can be constructed
in each district.
Require development standards, such as screening and setbacks,
to minimize impacts on adjacent property.
Protect sensitive resources from inconsistent or harmful use.
Enhance community character with signage, parking, and
landscaping standards.
Support affordable housing and economic development goals.
Zoning Can
Change or correct land use or buildings already in existence.
Guarantee that development will take place.
Assure that land uses will be permanent.
Treat similar uses differently within a district.
Ensure property is maintained. (This is accomplished through other
means, such as Virginia Maintenance Code and Blight Abatement.)
Guide public or private investment in infrastructure.
Zoning Cannot
Typical Content of a Zoning Ordinance
Purpose & Authority
Administration
Permit & Application Procedures
Review Bodies Powers &
Procedures
Enforcement & Appeals
Zoning Districts
Establishment of Districts
Dimensional Standards
Allowable Uses (By-Right,
Conditional, Temporary, Accessory)
Design & Use Standards
Signs, Landscaping, Parking,
Utilities
Supplemental Standards for
Specific Uses
Non-conforming Uses
Definitions
Comprehensive Plan Zoning Ordinance
5.a.g
Packet Pg. 128 Attachment: ZoningGuide (3415 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)