02-09-2023 Joint Meeting with Planning and BZA Agenda Packet
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
JOINT MEETING WITH BZA AND PLANNING COMMISSION
Thursday, February 9, 2023 – 2:30 PM
Board Meeting Room
39 Bank Street, SE,
Chatham, Virginia 24531
AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER (2:30 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: Emily S.
Ragsdale); (Presenter: The Berkley Group)
Staff Contact(s): Emily S. Ragsdale
Agenda Date: February 09, 2023 Item Number: 5.a
Attachment(s):
Worksession 3 Memo
Attachment A - Project Schedule and Progress
Attachment B - Article IV District Standards
Attachment C - Article V Overlay Zoning Districts
Attachment D - Pertinent Definitions for Review
Reviewed By:
Berkley Group representatives will review the attached items with the Board of Zoning Appeals,
Planning Commission, and Board of Supervisors regarding the ongoing mass County Zoning
Ordinance revision.
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Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Worksession #3 Memo
February 9, 2023
Worksession #3 Memo | Page 1 of 3
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, the Board of Zoning Appeals, and the Board
of Supervisors and includes opportunities for input from stakeholders and County residents.
Agenda
The February 9th meeting will focus on reviewing the following proposed articles:
• Article IV, Primary Zoning Districts
• Article V, Overlay Zoning Districts
The following agenda is provided as an outline for discussion:
1. Schedule & Progress to Date – 5 minutes
2. Proposed Article Review
a. Article IV – 50 minutes
b. Article V – 30 minutes
3. Next Steps – 5 minutes
Schedule & Progress to Date
See Attachment A for the project schedule. 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.
• Joint Kickoff – Held on July 19, 2022. During this meeting, the Berkley Group presented the scope of work
and schedule for the Zoning Ordinance update process.
• Public Engagement – Public engagement offered opportunities to collect community feedback on priorities
for the ordinance update. An online public survey was conducted from August 1-31. A public workshop and
stakeholder interviews were held on August 18th.
• Worksession #1 – The first worksession between the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission, and Board
of Zoning Appeals was held on October 18, 2022. The results of the public engagement phase, the results
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Packet Pg. 3 Attachment: Worksession 3 Memo (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Worksession #3 Memo
February 9, 2023
Worksession #3 Memo | Page 2 of 3
of the Zoning Diagnostic Report, and the proposed Ordinance structure were discussed during this
worksession.
• Worksession #2 – The second worksession between the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission, and
Board of Zoning Appeals was held on December 20, 2022. Articles I, II, III, and IX were discussed during this
worksession. Edits were provided and have been incorporated into the draft articles.
Proposed Article Review
See Attachments B, C, and D for the proposed articles for review. During review, consider the editor’s footnotes to
aid in review. The provided footnotes explain inclusions, omissions, modifications, etc.
Attachment B: Article IV – District Standards
This Article contains content from Division 3 of the existing Ordinance. Proposed amendments include general
reorganization of content applicable to all development, as well as changes to district standards, including setback
and yard requirements and the introduction of minimum lot areas that are tied to the availability of public utilities.
The following items highlight significant changes to zoning district standards:
• Tables and visuals have been integrated into Article IV to better explain dimensional standards, as well as
to organize information in an accessible, user-friendly format.
• Text has been significantly reorganized and streamlined where possible with the goal of increasing
accessibility and clarity.
o Setback requirements for Smith Mountain Lake and other lakes are outlined in Article V, Overlay
Zoning Districts.
o Permitted uses in each district will be outlined in Article VI, Use Matrix. Standards for all uses will
be outlined in Article VII, Use Performance Standards.
• Side setbacks are uniformly applied within the underlying zoning district as opposed to being determined
as a percentage of an individual lot’s road frontage.
• All primary zoning districts have clearly defined minimum lot areas, minimum setbacks, and maximum
structure heights. Se veral zoning districts, including commercial and industrial districts, have minimum lot
areas that are tied to the availability of public utilities.
• The minimum lot size in the A-1 district has been increased to better support compatibility between
residential uses and agricultural uses, as well as to better facilitate the safe placement of septic tanks and
wells and reduce the risk of fertilizer contamination. Setbacks within the A-1 district have also been
increased to correspond with the increased minimum lot size.
• New regulations have been added to the RPD district to clearly state application and amendment
procedures, open space requirements, and residential use requirements.
Attachment C: Article V – Overlay Zoning Districts
Article V, Overlay Zoning Districts, houses regulations for all County overlay districts. These districts differ from the
primary zoning districts because they “overlay” and any requirements are in addition to the regulations of the
underlying primary zoning district.
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Packet Pg. 4 Attachment: Worksession 3 Memo (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Worksession #3 Memo
February 9, 2023
Worksession #3 Memo | Page 3 of 3
Overlay Districts include:
• Lake Surface Overlay District (LSOD);
• Floodplain Overlay District (FOD); and
• Airport Overlay District (AOD).
It should be noted that the County’s Floodplain Overlay District remains governed by the provisions of Chapter 23,
Flood Plain Management, of the Pittsylvania County Code.
Most of the text in Article V remains the same as the current Ordinance; however, text has been reorganized and
streamlined for readability. Text has been added in the LSOD to clarify the purpose and intent of the district, to
address development and design standards for lots within the LSOD, and to introduce clearer regulations for
boathouses. These are best practices for shoreline protection and area preservation along Virginia’s lakes.
Text has been added in the AOD to address development and design standards for lots within the AOD, as well as
to address nonconforming uses, lots, and structures within the AOD.
Attachment D: Pertinent Definitions
Attachment D contains definitions that are pertinent to the Articles being reviewed during the worksession.
Finalized definitions will be consolidated into Article X, Definitions, upon the conclusion of the drafting process.
• Several new terms and associated definitions have been proposed for addition to the Ordinance; for
example, “full pond height” and “mooring”.
• Several definitions of existing terms – for example, “adjacent”, “building”, and “on-site sewerage system,
individual” – have been amended for clarity and to match the provisions of the Ordinance text.
Next Steps
The Berkley Group will review any recommendations and comments for incorporation and continue drafting
ordinance articles. Topics to be discussed at the next meeting include:
• Article VI – Use Matrix
• Pertinent Definitions
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Packet Pg. 5 Attachment: Worksession 3 Memo (3579 : 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.
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Packet Pg. 6 Attachment: Attachment A - Project Schedule and Progress (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
Draft Article IV – District Standards
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ARTICLE IV. – District Standards.
Division 1. Establishment and Purpose.
Section 4-1-1. General.
(A) Zoning Districts Established. Land within the County, as it exists at the time of this Ordinance
being enacted, is hereby divided into classes of primary zoning districts to:
(1) Regulate and restrict the location and use of buildings and land for trade, industry,
residence, and other purposes in accordance with the objectives of the Pittsylvania County
Comprehensive Plan;
(2) Regulate and restrict the location, height, and size of buildings hereafter erected or
structurally altered; and
(3) Ensure adequate setbacks , open spaces, and public facilities to support the County’s
population.
(B) Primary Zoning Districts. To carry out the purpose stated in Article I, In General, of this Ordinance
and (A) above, Pittsylvania County is hereby divided into the following primary zoning districts:
Table IV-1. Primary Zoning Districts
Agricultural Districts
A-1 General Agriculture
Residential Districts
R-E Residential Estates
R-1 Residential Suburban Subdivision
RC-1 Residential Combined Subdivision
RMF Residential Multifamily
MHP Residential Manufactured Housing Park
Commercial Districts
B-1 Limited Business
B-2 General Business
Industrial Districts
M-1 Light Industry
M-2 Heavy Industry
Planned Development Districts
RPD Residential Planned Unit Development
Conservation Districts
C-1 Conservation District
(B) Overlay Districts are established in Article V, Overlay Zoning Districts, of this Ordinance.
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Packet Pg. 7 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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February 9, 2023
Draft Article IV – District Standards
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Section 4-1-2. References to District Names1.
For the purpose of reference throughout this Ordinance, unless specifically provided to the contrary,
the term “agricultural district” shall include the A-1 district; “residential district” shall include R-E, R-1,
RC-1, RMF, and MHP districts; “commercial district” shall include B-1 and B-2 districts; “industrial
district” shall include M-1 and M-2 districts; “planned development district” shall include the RPD
district; and “conservation district” shall include the C-1 district.
Section 4-1-3. Purpose and Intent of Primary Zoning Districts.2
(A) Agriculture.
(1) A-1, General Agriculture. This district includes areas of the County that are occupied by
various open uses of farming and forestry. This district is established for the purpose of
facilitating existing and future farming operations and preserving farm and forest lands.
Residential uses shall consist of sparse single-family dwellings, primarily located to serve
farm owners and their families. This is a rural area where widespread extension of public
utilities is not planned. It should also be presumed that agricultural and forestry activities
may produce some noise, odors, and other effects, and a certain level of tolerance for these
effects must be expected of those who dwell in this district.
(B) Residential.
(1) R-E, Residential Estates. The intent of this district is to protect persons occupying residential
properties in large lot developments with three (3) or more lots. This district's regulations are
designed to stabilize and protect the essential characteristics of large lot residential
development and to prohibit activities of a commercial nature3.
(2) R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision. The intent of this district is to recognize single-family
residential areas within the County and to maintain separation of these residential uses from
commercial uses. This dwelling district allows for single-family dwellings, religious assembly
uses, public uses, and accessory uses that are compatible with residential surroundings. The
regulations for this district are designed to stabilize the residential nature, promote single-
family dwellings, and to prohibit high-impact commercial activity.
(3) RC-1, Residential Combined Subdivision. The intent of this district is to provide increased
opportunities for affordable housing and to promote cost-effective site development. This
combined district provides locations where manufactured housing communities may
harmoniously develop in a residential area in with a mix of other housing types 4.
(4) RMF, Residential Multifamily. The intent of this district is to provide for locations of multi-
family residences and is used for construction of apartments, townhouse developments, or
other multi-unit residential developments in appropriate locations. Uses compatible with
1 Editor’s Note: This is a new S ection added for clarity.
2 Editor’s Note: Section 4-1-3 is a new Section, proposed to combine and streamline all sections in the current
Zoning Ordinance that address purpose for each primary zoning district.
3 Editor’s Note: Language from Section 35-191 of the existing Ordinance has been condensed for clarity.
4 Editor’s Note: Language from Section 35-266 of the existing Ordinance has been condensed for clarity.
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Packet Pg. 8 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
Draft Article IV – District Standards
Draft Article IV – District Standards | 3 of 4
residential neighborhoods, such as religious assembly uses, public uses, and accessory uses,
are also permitted. The regulations for this district are designed to provide a range of
residential dwellings, promote varied neighborhood types, and to prohibit high-impact
commercial activity. Certain commercial uses may be allowed through Special Use Permits 5.
(5) MHP, Residential Manufactured Housing Park. The intent of this district is to accommodate
manufactured housing parks exclusively. The regulations are intended to ensure an
attractive and harmonious environment for manufactured home dwellings and their
residents6.
(C) Commercial.
(1) B-1, Limited Business. The intent of this district is to recognize existing light commercial uses
and to provide an opportunity to expand these and other retail opportunities. The district
should accommodate a range of retail, personal service, and office uses that are compatible
with adjacent residential areas and provide for the convenience and day-to-day needs of
residents of nearby neighborhoods. The intent of these regulations is not to limit business
development in the County, but rather to encourage it in appropriate locations where it will
not produce adverse impacts on residential uses.7
(2) B-2, General Business. The intent of this district is to recognize existing commercial and/or
service trade uses within the County and provide an opportunity to expand these and
related general commercial opportunities. This district should accommodate a range of
retail, wholesale, service, and office uses that cater to the traveling public and serve the
County and the surrounding region. The district is designed to provide attractive and
accessible shopping along principal highways. Examples of uses permitted in General
Business district include, but are not limited to, event venues, large retail stores, and
offices8.
(D) Industrial.
(1) M-1, Light Industry. The intent of this district is to encourage the development of
manufacturing and wholesale business establishments which do not create a danger to
health and safety in surrounding areas and that do not produce high levels of smoke, smell,
noise, light, dust, and other nuisances. Uses should operate primarily within enclosed
structures and should not deal with large volumes of customers on a regular basis. The
intent is also to make available more attractive locations for these businesses and industries.
5 Editor’s Note: Language from Section 35-279 of the existing Ordinance has been condensed for clarity. Some new
language has been added to clarify uses permitted.
6 Editor’s Note: Language from Section 35-315 of the existing Ordinance has been condensed for clarity.
7 Editor’s Note: This is new text proposed to replace Section 35-345 of the existing Ordinance for clarity and to
better capture the intent of the B-1 district.
8 Editor’s Note: This is new text proposed to replace Section 35-364 of the existing Ordinance for clarity and to
better capture the intent and uses permitted in the B-2 district.
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Packet Pg. 9 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
Draft Article IV – District Standards
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Certain commercial uses are permitted, primarily for service to employees in the district and
as accessory uses to manufacturing conducted on site9.
(2) M-2, Heavy Industry. The intent of this district is to provide locations for larger scale
manufacturing, processing, and warehousing operations which may require public utilities
and access to transportation facilities, have open storage, large product display areas, and
service areas, and generate heavy truck traffic. The creation of any significant noise,
vibration, smoke, dust, lint, odor, heat, or glare shall be mitigated with industry best
practices for the compatibility of the surrounding uses and the preservation of the
environment10.
(E) Planned Development.
(1) RPD, Residential Planned Unit Development District. The purpose of this district is to
promote innovative and creative large-scale development as a means of creating a well-
planned living environment. The intent of district regulations is to encourage variety in
housing, to allow supporting community facilities, along with appropriate commercial uses
through Special Use Permits, and to protect the natural landscape using advantageous
construction techniques, the preservation of natural features, and the integration of open
space. Residential planned unit development districts should provide for increased
community amenities, safety and conveniences, and other public and private benefits11.
(F) Conservation Districts.
(1) C-1, Conservation District. The purpose of this district is to recognize portions of the County
which are occupied by unique natural features such as steep slopes, forest, parks, marshland,
lakes, or watersheds deserving of protection. This district is established for the specific
purpose of conserving water and other natural resources, reducing soil erosion, protecting
watersheds, reducing hazards from flood and fire, and preserving wildlife areas of the
County12.
9 Editor’s Note: Language from Section 35-382 of the existing Ordinance has been amended for clarity. Some new
language has been added to address intent and provide the example of industrial parks.
10 Editor’s Note: Language from Section 35-401 of the existing Ordinance has been condensed for clarity. Some new
language related to mitigating adverse impacts has been included.
11 Editor’s Note: Language from Section 35-293 of the existing Ordinance has been amended for clarity.
12 Editor’s Note: Language from Section 35-329 of the existing Ordinance has been modified for clarity.
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Packet Pg. 10 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
Draft Article IV – District Standards
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Division 2. General District Standards.
Section 4-2-1. General.13
(A) The requirements specified in this Article shall be considered the minimum required to promote
public health, safety, and general welfare.
(B) Regulations shall apply uniformly to each use, structure, and lot within the zoning district.
(C) Except as provided in Article IX, Nonconforming Uses, Lots, and Structures, of this Ordinance,
every structure hereafter constructed shall be located on a lot meeting the minimum
requirements for the district in which it is located.14
(D) The State Health Official may require a larger minimum lot area for permitted uses, as needed, to
meet Department of Health requirements for use of individual wells and/or sewage disposal
systems.
(E) Photographs, graphics, and/or diagrams in this Article are included for illustrative purposes only.
If there is any inconsistency between them and the text of this Ordinance, including tables, the
text will govern.
Section 4-2-2. Additional Standards 15.
In addition to the provided standards for each district, additional standards may apply, as listed
below:
(A) Use Performance Standards. Article VII, Use Performance Standards, of this Ordinance establishes
additional standards pertaining to specific uses.
(B) Community Design Standards. Article VIII, Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance
establishes additional standards for:
(1) Lighting;
(2) Landscaping and screening;
(3) Walls and fences;
(4) Parking and loading;
(5) Signs;
(6) Open space;
(7) Utilities; and
(8) Streets and Sidewalks.
13 Editor’s Note: This is a new Section, integrating both text from Sections 35-15 and 35-16 of the existing Ordinance
and new text.
14 Editor’s Note: Rather than repeat for each district, it is included here and applicable to all.
15 Editor’s Note: Added as new text.
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Packet Pg. 11 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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February 9, 2023
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(C) Drainage. Provisions shall be made for proper stormwater drainage from streets, parking, and
loading areas. Water shall not be permitted to drain from such areas onto adjacent property
except into a natural watercourse or a drainage easement. Provisions shall be made for
protection against erosion and sedimentation in accordance with applicable County ordinances.
Section 4-2-3. Height Regulations.
(A) Purpose.
(1) It is the intent of the height regulations of this Ordinance to secure safety, to provide light
and air, and to protect the character of districts and the interests of the public. No building
shall be erected, constructed, or altered to exceed the height limitations specified in the
district regulations set in this Ordinance.
(B) Measuring Height.
(1) Building height is measured, in feet, from the average grade to the top of the highest point of
a roof. See Figure IV-116.
(2) Average grade is determined by calculating the average of the highest and lowest elevations
along natural or improved grade (whichever is more restrictive) along the wall 17 of the
structure that is parallel to the front setback.
16 Editor’s Note: This figure is a new addition.
17 Editor’s Note: Replaced “front of the” with “wall” for clarification. The front of a structure may not be the side of
the structure that is parallel with the front setback, as specified, here.
Figure IV-1. Height Measurement in Primary Districts
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Packet Pg. 12 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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February 9, 2023
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(C) Exceptions .
(1) For structures that are in V, VE, AE, AH, and A Flood Zones, as identified on the official Flood
Rate Insurance Map (FIRM) and further regulated in Chapter 23, Flood Plain Management, of
the Pittsylvania County Code, the following applies:
(i) Height is measured from 12 inches above the base flood elevation18 for the building
site. See Figure IV-219.
(ii) In cases where there is a ground floor enclosure below the base flood elevation, height
shall be measured from the average grade, as shown in Figure IV-1.
Section 4-2-4. Determination and Measurement of Lots.
(A) General.
(1) No lot(s) existing at the time of adoption of this Ordinance shall be reduced in area below the
minimum requirements established in this Article. Lot(s) created after the effective date of
this Ordinance shall meet at least the minimum requirements established by this
Ordinance 20.
(2) Whenever there shall be plans in existence, approved by either the Virginia Department of
Transportation (VDOT) or by the Board of Supervisors for the widening of any street or
highway, the Administrator may require additional setbacks for any new construction or for
any structures altered or remodeled adjacent to the future planned right-of-way.
18 Editor’s Note: This is a new regulation to create consistency with Chapter 23 of the Pittsylvania County Code,
which recommends at least a 1 ft. freeboard. Having a freeboard helps to protect life and property, as well as lowers
flood insurance rates for property owners.
19 Editor’s Note: This figure is a new addition.
20 Editor’s Note: This is an adaptation of Section 35-65 of the existing Ordinance.
Figure IV-2. Height Measurement of Raised Structures in Floodplain Areas
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Packet Pg. 13 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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(i) Such additional setback shall be the minimum required in the underlying zoning district,
measured from the edge of the planned right-of-way (ROW) line.21
(B) Determination of Lot Front.
(1) Interior Lots. The front shall be construed to be the portion adjacent to the street.
(2) Corner Lots. The front shall be construed to be the shortest boundary fronting a street. If the
lot has equal frontage on two (2) or more streets, the front shall be construed in accordance
with the prevailing building pattern, or the prevailing lotting pattern if a building pattern is
not established.
(C) Required Setbacks.
(1) Interior Lots, Through Lots, and Stem Lots shall have the following setbacks:
(i) One front, two sides, and one rear.
(2) Corner Lots and Through Corner Lots shall have the following setbacks:
(i) One front, two sides, and one rear.
(D) Measurement Methods. The following methods shall be used for measuring setbacks:
(1) All Setback Types. Setbacks shall be measured in such a manner that the lot line and the
setback line are parallel to one another.
(i) Rounded lots shall be measured as follows:
(a) Where lots are convex or
concave, required setbacks
shall be measured radially
from the edge of the ROW.
See Figure IV-322.
(b) In accordance with Article II,
Administration, of this
Ordinance, the Administrator
shall determine the boundary
line(s) from which the
setback(s) shall be measured
for Irregular Lots.
(2) Front Setback. Except as otherwise
provided in this Article, every lot shall
21 Editor’s Note: This text is consistent with Section 35-70 of the current Ordinance, although the Administrator is
now given the authority to require additional setbacks, consistent with responsibilities granted in Articles II and III.
22 Editor’s Note: Text has been added to address how setbacks are measured for convex and concave lots. Figure IV-
3 is a new addition to help illustrate this regulation.
Figure IV-3. Setback Measurement for
Convex and Concave Lots
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Packet Pg. 14 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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front on an existing street; whether public or private. Front setbacks are determined as
follows 23:
(i) A front setback shall be included for the full width of the lot frontage, measured between
the side lot lines.
(ii) Depth of the front setback shall be measured from the edge of the ROW, inward towards
the lot, until the distance required in the district standards is met.
(a) If the lot has frontage on a private road, the depth of the front setback shall be
measured from the centerline of the road, inward towards the lot, until the distance
required in the district standards is met.24
(b) Areas in parking bays shall not be considered as part of the street or access easement
for purposes of determining front setback depth.
(iii) Interior Lots shall have one front setback that is the portion along the street.
(iv) Through Lots shall have one front setback that is determined by the prevailing building
pattern or, if a prevailing building pattern has not been established, the prevailing lotting
pattern. If neither building nor lotting patterns exist, the lot front shall be along the lot
frontage that is the narrowest.
(v) Through Corner Lots25 shall have one front setback construed to be the shortest
boundary along a street.
(vi) Stem Lots shall have one front that is measured
from the boundary delineating the end of the
“stem” and then in towards the lot until the
distance required in the district standards is met.
See Figure IV-426.
(vii) The front setback required for nonconforming lots
may be the average of the front setbacks within
three hundred (300) feet on either side of the lot,
except that no front setback shall be required to
be greater than the minimum required for the
underlying zoning district.
(a) To maintain the pattern of the neighborhood,
if the adjacent lots are vacant, the average(s)
23 Editor’s Note: New language is included in this section for clarification. Some language from Section 35-62 of the
existing Ordinance has been retained.
24 Editor ’s Note: The current Ordinance does not clearly specify how front setbacks are measured for lots that front
on a public road versus lots that front on a private road. Language has been added to clarify what is being done in
practice.
25 Editor’s Note: Localities do not typically include provisions for Through Corner Lots. This is included for
consideration, but can be removed, if desired.
26 Editor’s Note: Figure IV-4 is a new addition.
Figure IV-4. Stem Lot Front Setback
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of the nearest developed lot(s) on the same side of the street shall be used.
(3) Side Setback.
(i) Side setbacks shall be measured from the front setback to the rear setback.
(ii) Depth of a side setback shall be measured from the lot line in towards the lot until the
distance required in the district standards is met.
(iii) On corner lots, the required side setback shall be construed to be the longest boundary
fronting a street. The distance required of the side setback fronting a street shall be the
same as the front setback27. The distance required of subsequent side setbacks shall be
the distance established in the underlying zoning district standards.
(4) Rear Setback.
(i) A rear setback shall be included for the full width of the rear of the lot, measured
between the side lot lines.
(ii) Depth of a rear setback shall be measured from the rear lot line in towards the lot until
the distance required in the district standards is met.
(5) Lot Width.
(i) Minimum lot width for all lots shall be measured at the front setback line.
Section 4-2-5. Lot Coverage and Siting.28
(A) Except as otherwise specifically provided in computations to determine lot coverage by buildings,
building coverage shall be construed as including all areas under roofs or projections from
buildings on the lot.
(B) All buildings and other structures shall be located and arranged on lots to provide safe and
convenient access for fire protection, servicing, and off-street parking located on the premises.
(C) No structure requiring a building permit shall be erected upon a lot which does not have
frontage on a public or private road, except as specifically provided in Chapter 18, Subdivision
Ordinance, of the Pittsylvania County Code.
Division 3. Exemptions and Encroachments.29
Section 4-3-1. Structures in Required Setbacks.
(A) General. The following uses and structures are permitted in required setbacks, subject to the
limitations provided:
27 Editor’s Note: This text is consistent with Section 35-64 of the current Ordinance.
28 Editor’s Note: This is a new Section, integrating both new text and text from Sections 35-65 and 35-66 of the
existing Ordinance.
29 Editor’s Note: Proposed as a new section.
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(1) Fences, walls, and hedges, subject to visibility clearance requirements on corner lots as
outlined in Article VIII, Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(2) Covered porches (on any façade) may project not more than 4 ft. into any required setback
but shall not be closer to 10 ft. to any lot line.30
(3) Uncovered porches and decks may project not more than 4 ft. into a required rear or side
setback.31
(4) Architectural features, chimneys, eaves, and other similar building features may not project
more than four (4) ft. into any required setback but shall not be closer than two (2) ft. to any
lot line.
(5) Balconies may not project more than four (4) ft. into any required side or rear setback but
shall not be closer than ten (10) ft. to any lot line.32
(6) Accessory structures are subject to the requirements and regulations of Article VII, Use
Performance Standards, of this Ordinance.
Section 4-3-2. Reduction of Setbacks.
(A) No setback existing at the time of adoption of this Ordinance shall be reduced in dimension
below the minimum requirements established in this Article, unless such setback requirements
reduce the buildable area to unreasonable dimensions.
(1) Any person desiring to amend a setback to a distance not in accordance with the regulations
prescribed in this Article may apply for a variance from these regulations in accordance with
Article III, Permits and Applications, of this Ordinance.
(B) Every part of a required setback shall be open from its lowest point to the sky unobstructed,
except for the ordinary projections of balconies, sills, cornices, buttresses, ornamental features,
chimneys, flues, and eaves, provided such projections shall not extend into the required yard
areas for a distance exceeding two (2) feet, as provided for in Section 4-3-1 (A) (4).
Section 4-3-3. Exemptions.
(A) All regulations. The following structures and uses shall be exempt from all regulations of this
Ordinance:
(1) Underground and above ground utility equipment, including but not limited to wires, cables,
conduits, pipes, mains, and valves.
(i) Such utility equipment must be located in a street right-of-way or in an easement less
than forty (40) feet in width.
30 Editor’s Note: The distance that covered porches may be from a lot line has been reduced from 15 ft. to 10 ft. to
be less restrictive and for better alignment with setbacks in primary zoning districts.
31 Editor’s Note: An encroachment distance for uncovered porches and decks has been added and is applicable to
both rear and side setbacks.
32 Editor’s Note: The distance that architectural features may be from a lot line has been reduced from 15 ft. to 2 ft.
to eliminate conflicting requirements in the Ordinance.
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Packet Pg. 17 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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(ii) Exemptions shall not apply to any substation located on or above the surface of the
ground.
(2) Railroad tracks, signals, bridges, and similar facilities and equipment located on a railroad
right-of-way, and maintenance and repair work on such facilities and equipment.
(3) Mailboxes.
(B) Height regulations. The following structures and uses shall be exempt from the height regulations
of this Ordinance:33
(1) Belfries;
(2) Cupolas;
(3) Chimneys;
(4) Flues;
(5) Flagpoles under 40 feet in height;
(6) Television antennas;
(7) Public monuments or memorials;
(8) Radio aerials;
(9) Silos and other farm buildings; and
(10) Water tanks.
33 Editor’s Note: The height limit for flagpoles has been introduced at 40 ft. Farm buildings have been added as a use
exempt from the height regulations of this Ordinance.
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Packet Pg. 18 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
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Division 4. Agricultural Districts Dimensional Standards.34
Section 4-4-1. Agricultural District Regulations.
Table IV-2. Agriculture District Regulations
A-1
Minimum Lot Area
All lots 1 acre35
Density
All lots 1 residential unit per 1
acre36
Minimum Required Setbacks
Front (includes all structures)
Lots fronting a public road (setback
measured from the edge of the ROW) 35 ft.
Lots fronting a private road (setback
measured from centerline) 60 ft.
Side37
Principal structures 35 ft.
Farm animal structures* 50 ft.
Accessory structures 10 ft.
Rear
Principal structures 20 ft.
Farm animal structures* 50 ft.
Accessory structures 10 ft.
Maximum Structure Height
Principal structures 40 ft.
Accessory structures 40 ft.
* Farm animal structures do not include intensive livestock structures, which are a
separate use and have use standards outlined in Article VII, Use Performance
Standards.
34 Editor’s Note: This Division replaces Article III, Division 1 of the current Ordinance.
35 Editor’s Note: The minimum lot size has been proposed to increase from 20,000 square feet to 1 acre, in response
to requests for the protection of agriculture.
36 Editor’s Note: The density has been proposed to decrease from 2 units per acre to 1 unit per acre, in response to
requests for the protection of agriculture.
37 Editor’s Note: Side setbacks are currently determined to be 10% of the lot frontage with a minimum of 10 ft. To
ensure that standards are being uniformly applied within the A-1 district, a single distance for the side setback has
been proposed.
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Packet Pg. 19 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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February 9, 2023
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Division 5. Residential Districts Dimensional Standards.38
Section 4-5-1. Single Family Residential District Regulations.
Table IV-3. Single Family Residential District Regulations
R-E R-1 RC-1
Minimum Lot Area
All lots 5 acres - -
Public Water AND Sewer - 10,000 sq. ft. 10,000 sq. ft.
Public Water OR Sewer - 15,000 sq. ft. 15,000 sq. ft
NO Public Utilities - 20,000 sq. ft. 20,000 sq. ft.
Minimum Lot Width 39
Public Water AND Sewer 100 ft. 75 ft. 75 ft.
Public Water OR Sewer 100 ft. 75 ft. 75 ft.
NO Public Utilities 150 ft. 100 ft. 100 ft.
Density40
All lots 1 residential unit
per 5 acres
1 residential
unit per 0.25
acres
1 residential
unit per 0.25
acres
Minimum Required Setbacks41
Front
Principal structures 35 ft. 35 ft. 35 ft.
Accessory structures Not permitted in front yard
Side
Principal structures 20 ft. 15 ft. 10 ft.
Accessory structures 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft.
Rear
Principal structures 30 ft. 30 ft. 25 ft.
Accessory structures 15 ft. 15 ft. 15 ft.
Maximum Structure Height
All structures 40 ft. 40 ft. 40 ft.
38 Editor’s Note: This Division replaces Article III, Division 2 of the current Ordinance.
39 Editor’s Note: Minimum lot width is a new dimensional standard for residential districts and is proposed to be tied
to the availability of public utilities to align with minimum lot area requirements.
40 Editor’s Note: Density is proposed to be determined by acreage, not by lot, for ease of administration.
41 Editor’s Note: Uniform front, side, and rear setbacks are proposed for all districts.
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Packet Pg. 20 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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Section 4-5-2. Multi-Family Residential District Regulations.
Table IV-3. Multi-Family Residential District Regulations
R-MF
Minimum Lot Area
Single-Family Dwellings and Non-Residential Structures42
Public Water AND Sewer 5,000 sq. ft.
Public Water OR Sewer 11,000 sq. ft.
NO Public Utilities 13,125 sq. ft.
Multi-Family, Two-Family, and Townhouses
Multi-Family and Two-Family
Dwellings
As above for the first two units, plus 2,100 sq. ft. for
each additional dwelling unit.
Townhouses 1,500 sq. ft. with public water AND sewer, otherwise as
above
Minimum Lot Width 43
Single-Family Dwellings and Non-Residential Structures44
Public Water AND Sewer 75 ft.
Public Water OR Sewer 75 ft.
NO Public Utilities 100 ft.
Multi-Family, Two-Family, and Townhouses
Multi-Family and Two-Family
Dwellings As above
Townhouses 18 ft.
Maximum Density45
All lots 16 dwelling units per acre
Maximum Lot Coverage
Two-family Lots 35%
Townhouse and Multi-family
Lots 40%
Minimum Distance Between Principal Buildings
All lots 20 ft.
42 Editor’s Note: Minimum lot area has NOT changed, but rather been made more clear to reflect one unit per lot for
single-family residential dwellings.
43 Editor’s Note: New standards for minimum lot width have been introduced to differentiate between single-family
and multi-family residential uses, and to tie dimensional standards to the availability of public utilities.
44 Editor’s Note: Minimum lot width for single-family dwellings and non-residential structures is consistent with
regulations in the R-1 district.
45 Editor’s Note: Maximum density has been increased from 13 to 16 dwellings per acre; recommended increase
based on community feedback expressing a need for housing. Increasing the density coupled with a decreased lot
area incentivizes building near public water and sewer, further protecting agricultural lands.
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Packet Pg. 21 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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February 9, 2023
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R-MF
Minimum Required Setbacks46
Front
Principal structures 50 ft.
Accessory structures Not permitted in front yard
Side47
Principal structures 10 ft.
Accessory structures 5 ft.
Rear
Principal structures 20 ft.
Accessory structures 10 ft.
Maximum Structure Height
All structures 80 ft.
46 Editor’s Note: Setback requirements for accessory structures have been introduced.
47 Editor’s Note: Side setbacks are currently determined to be 10% of the lot frontage with a minimum of 10 ft. To
ensure that standards are being uniformly applied within the RMF district, a single distance for the side setback has
been proposed.
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Packet Pg. 22 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
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Section 4-5-3. Manufactured Home Park District Regulations.
Table IV-4. Manufactured Home Park District Regulations
MHP -
Individual Pad
Sites
MHP -
Total Park Area 48
Minimum Lot Area
All lots 6,000 sq. ft. 3 acres
Minimum Lot Width
Public Water AND Sewer 50 ft.
Public Water OR Sewer 50 ft.
NO Public Utilities 100 ft.
Maximum Density
All lots 7 dwelling units per
acre
Minimum Number of Accesses to Public Road49
50 or fewer units 1
51 or more units 2
Minimum Required Setbacks50
Front
Lots fronting a public road (setback
measured from the edge of the ROW)
25 ft. from internal
roads and pad site
boundary
50 ft.
Lots fronting a private road (setback
measured from centerline)
25 ft. from internal
roads and pad site
boundary
60 ft.
Accessory structures, all lots Not permitted in front
yard
Not permitted in front
yard
Side
Principal structures 10 ft. 20 ft.
Accessory structures 10 ft. 10 ft.
Rear
Principal structures 10 ft. 20 ft.
Accessory structures 10 ft. 10 ft.
Minimum Distance Between Structures
48 Editor’s Note: The current Ordinance does not provide regulations for the total park area of an MHP district.
Regulations have been added as a best practice to ensure safe and attractive manufactured home parks.
49 Editor’s Note: This is a new addition to provide standards for safe ingress/egress in manufactured home parks.
50 Editor’s Note: The current Ordinance requires front setbacks to be 20 ft. from lot lines and 30 ft. for public roads.
These distances have been proposed to be edited slightly to streamline review, and to provide more distance from
the overall MHP area to a road.
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Packet Pg. 23 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
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MHP -
Individual Pad
Sites
MHP -
Total Park Area 48
All structures 20 ft. 20 ft.
Maximum Structure Height
All structures 35 ft. 35 ft.
(A) Development Standards.51
(1) Each manufactured home park shall have a sign at all entrances on a public road designating
the name of the manufactured home park. Signs shall be designed and erected in accordance
with the standards of Article VIII, Community Design Standards.
(2) All manufactured home parks must have at least 10% of their total area dedicated to
recreational use.
(i) 50% of the total recreational use area shall be outside of designated floodplain areas and
have a slope of not more than 5%.
(ii) Either active or passive recreation uses, as defined in Article X, Definitions, of this
Ordinance, shall be integrated into recreational use areas.
51 Editor’s Note: These are new requirements intended to ensure the development of safe and attractive
manufactured home parks.
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Packet Pg. 24 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
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Division 6. Commercial Districts Dimensional Standards.
Section 4-6-1. Commercial District Regulations.
Table IV-6. Commercial District Regulations
52 Editor’s Note: Minimum lot area requirements are new dimensional standards for commercial districts and are
tied to the availability of public utilities.
53 Editor’s Note: Minimum road frontage requirements are new dimensional standards for commercial districts.
54 Editor’s Note: Side and rear setbacks are new dimensional standards for commercial districts. Setback distances
are set to promote fire safety and to promote compatibility between differing uses.
B-1 B-2
Minimum Lot Area 52
Public Water AND Sewer No required minimum No required minimum
Public Water OR Sewer 15,000 sq. ft. 15,000 sq. ft.
NO Public Water/Sewer 20,000 sq. ft. 20,000 sq. ft.
Minimum Road Frontage53
All Lots 50 ft. 50 ft.
Minimum Required Setbacks
Front
Principal structures 35 ft. 35 ft.
Accessory structures Not permitted in front yard
Side54
All
structures
Adjacent to agriculture,
residential, or conservation
district
20 ft. 20 ft.
Adjacent to all other districts 10 ft. 10 ft.
Rear
All
structures
Adjacent to agriculture,
residential, or conservation
district
40 ft.
40 ft.
Adjacent to all other districts 20 ft. 10 ft.
Maximum Structure Height
Principal structures 60 ft. 60 ft.
Accessory structures No taller than principal
structure
No taller than principal
structure
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Packet Pg. 25 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Division 7. Industrial Districts Dimensional Standards.
Section 4-7-1. Industrial District Regulations.
Table IV-7. Industrial District Regulations
55 Editor’s Note: Minimum lot area is a new dimensional standard for industrial districts.
56 Editor’s Note: Front setback minimums have been increased to 50 ft. for all structures in both M-1 and M-2
districts.
57 Editor’s Note: Side and rear setbacks for industrial lots adjacent to other types of lots are new dimensional
standards.
M-1 M-2
Minimum Lot Area 55
Public Water AND Sewer 15,000 sq. ft. 20,000 sq. ft.
Public Water OR Sewer 15,000 sq. ft. 20,000 sq. ft.
NO Public Water/Sewer 1 acre 1 acre
Minimum Road Frontage
All lots 75 ft. 100 ft.
Minimum Required Setbacks
Front 56
All structures 50 ft. 50 ft.
Side57
All
structures
Adjacent to M-1 or
M-2 districts None required None required
Adjacent to all other
zoning districts 50 ft. 50 ft.
Rear
All
structures
Adjacent to M-1 or
M-2 districts None required None required
Adjacent to all other
zoning districts 50 ft. 50 ft.
Maximum Structure Height*
Principal structures 80 ft. 80 ft.
Accessory structures No taller than principal structure No taller than principal structure
*The maximum building height in both M-1 and M-2 may be increased to 120 ft. for principal structures within a
recognized Industrial Park.
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Packet Pg. 26 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
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Division 8. Planned Development Dimensional Standards.
Section 4-8-1. Residential Planned Unit Development District.
Table IV-8. Residential Planned Unit Development District Regulations
RPD
Minimum Lot Area
Entire RPD District 5 contiguous
acres*
Density
Single-Family, Detached 3 units per acre
Two-Family 5 units per acre
Townhouses 10 units per acre
Multi-Family 15 units per acre
Minimum Required Setbacks
Front
Principal structures 35 ft.
Accessory structures Not permitted in
front yard
Side
Principal structures 10 ft.
Accessory structures 10 ft.
Rear58
Principal structures 20 ft.
Accessory structures 20 ft.
Maximum Structure Height
All structures 80 ft.
*None of the 5 contiguous acres required for an RPD can
be under water or within a flowage easement.
(A) General.59
(1) Character of Development. Development within RPD districts should encourage development
form and character that is aesthetically pleasing and is different from conventional suburban
development, which typically includes the following:
(i) Neighborhood friendly streets and paths;
(ii) Interconnected streets and transportation networks;
58 Editor’s Note: Rear and side setback standards are new additions for RPD districts.
59 Editor’s Note: This is new text proposed to provide clarity regarding the intended character of RPD development.
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Packet Pg. 27 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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(iii) Open space amenities;
(iv) Appropriately scaled buildings and spaces;
(v) Mixture of housing types and affordability; and
(vi) Environmentally sensitive design.
(B) Application and Procedures.60
(1) RPD districts shall be established by amendment to the Zoning Map in accordance with
Article III, Permits and Applications, of this Ordinance.
(2) Before filing the application, the applicant(s) shall meet with the Administrator for a pre-
application meeting to discuss the proposed RPD development and review applicable
requirements and approval procedures. The applicant(s) shall provide a concept plan of the
proposed RPD development for review and discussion during a pre-application meeting.
(i) Concept plans shall be developed in accordance with the standards of Article III, Permits
and Applications, of this Ordinance.
(3) No development within an RPD – including, but not limited to clearing, grading, excavating,
road building, site preparation, or structural improvements – shall occur prior to approval of
a Site Development Plan in accordance with Article III, Permits and Applications, of this
Ordinance.
(4) All development and subsequent operation within an RPD shall be undertaken in accordance
with the provisions of the approved RPD Application and Site Development Plan.
(i) Major modifications to the RPD Site Development Plan – including changes to housing
types, densities, permitted uses, architectural elevations, or general location of any
elements, or other aspects of the RPD Site Development Plan – where the change is not
in keeping with the concept of the approved RPD Site Development Plan shall require an
amendment to the RPD Site Development Plan in accordance with Article III, Permits and
Applications, of this Ordinance .
(ii) Minor modifications to the RPD Site Development Plan, which clearly are in substantial
conformity with the approved RPD Site Development Plan, may be approved by the
Administrator without applying for an amendment to the Site Development Plan.
Substantial conformity shall mean that conformity which leaves a reasonable margin for
adjustment due to final engineering data, but conforms to the general nature of the
development, the specific uses, the general layout depicted by the plans, profiles,
elevations, and other demonstrative materials presented by the applicant.
(5) A proposed development may vary from the guidelines outlined in this Division, except for
uses subject to approval of a rezoning or Special Use Permit in accordance with Article III,
Permits and Applications, of this Ordinance. Any waiver from the standards and guidelines
60 Editor’s Note: Section 4-8-1 (A) is new text included to establish procedures for establishing an RPD district within
the County.
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Packet Pg. 28 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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shall be specifically acknowledged by means of a proffer or conditions. A request for waiver
must:
(i) Clearly outline the requested waiver(s), and
(ii) Justify the need or benefit to the public and community should the waiver be granted.
(C) Open Space Requirements
(1) Open space shall be defined for the purposes of this Section as that total land or water within
the boundaries of an RPD development, designed and intended for use and enjoyment, and
not improved with buildings, structures, streets, roads, parking areas, or utilities, except for
recreational structures.
(2) The required open space shall not be less than thirty (30) percent of the total gross area of
the RPD development.61
(i) Appropriate active and passive recreational uses as defined in Article X, Definitions, of
this Ordinance, shall be provided within the open space area to serve the development.
(ii) Fifty (50) percent of all open space within an RPD development shall be dedicated to
active recreation uses.
(3) All open space, including developed open space, shall be specifically included in the
development schedule, and be constructed and fully improved by the developer at an
equivalent or greater rate than the construction of residential structures.
(4) There shall be established a non-profit association, a stock or membership corporation, trust,
or property owners’ association (POA) to ensure maintenance of open spaces.
(i) When the open space is to be maintained through a non-profit association, corporation,
trust, or POA, said organization shall conform to the following requirements:
(a) The developer must establish the organization prior to the sale of any lots.
(b) Membership in the organization shall be mandatory for all residential property
owners, present or future within the RPD development, and said organization shall
not discriminate in its members or shareholders.
(c) The organization shall manage all open space and recreational facilities and shall
provide for the maintenance, administration, and operation of said land and
improvements, and shall secure adequate liability insurance on the land.
(D) Development Standards62
61 Editor’s Note: The required percentage of open space in an RPD district has been reduced from 50% to 30%, so as
not to pose unreasonable regulations on developers. However, 50% of the open space is required to be dedicated to
active recreation uses, ultimately creating more recreational opportunities than what is required under the current
Ordinance.
62 Editor’s Note: This is new text included to address design standards within RPD developments.
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Packet Pg. 29 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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(1) All fencing, lighting, signage, landscaping, streets, sidewalks, and parking and loading areas
within RPD developments shall be designed in accordance with the standards of Article VIII,
Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(2) Areas between buildings used as service yards, storage of trash, or other utility purposes
should be designed to be compatible with adjoining buildings.
(3) Setbacks shall not interfere with public safety issues such as intersection sight distance or
utilities, including other public infrastructure such as sidewalks, open space, etc.
(4) Within RPD developments, all newly installed utilities shall be installed underground. Systems
which require above-ground installations shall be effectively screened.
(i) Screening shall be designed and installed in accordance with the standards of Article VIII,
Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(ii) RPD developments shall be served by centralized water and sewer utilities, whether
public or privately operated, and shall be designed and constructed to public standards
as approved by the Pittsylvania County Service Authority.
(iii) Unless otherwise operated by a public or private utility, private centralized utilities shall
be maintained by the POA.
(5) Residential Uses:
(i) Residential units should be designed in a logical and attractive manner to best fit the site.
(ii) All RPD districts shall contain at least two different types of residential uses.63
(iii) The gross and net residential densities shall be shown on the approved Site Development
Plan by area and for the overall development in dwelling units per acre (du/acre) and
shall be binding upon its approval.
63 Editor’s Note: The requirement that RPD development shall have at least two types of residential units was based
on staff and community input desiring requirements that facilitated the provision of affordable housing options to
meet regional demand.
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Packet Pg. 30 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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Division 9. Conservation Districts Dimensional Standards.
Section 4-9-1. Conservation District Regulations.64
Table IV-9. Conservation District Regulations
C-1
Minimum Lot Area
All lots 1 acre
Maximum Density
All lots 1 dwelling unit
per 1 acre
Minimum Required Setbacks65
Front
Lots fronting a public road
(setback measured from the
edge of the ROW)
35 ft.
Lots fronting a private road
(setback measured from
centerline)
60 ft.
Accessory structures, all lots Not permitted in
front yard
Side
Principal structures 35 ft.
Accessory structures 10 ft.
Rear
Principal structures 20 ft.
Accessory structures 10 ft.
Maximum Structure Height
Principal structures 40 ft.
Accessory structures 40 ft.
Section 4-9-2. Protection Measures.66
(A) All Concept Plans and Site Development Plans for any development in the conservation district
shall include specific and detailed plans and measures by the owner or agent addressing erosion
and sediment control in accordance with Chapter 4, Buildings, of the Pittsylvania County Code.
64 Editor’s Note: Dimensional standards for the C-1 district have been edited to be consistent with A-1 district
standards. The current Ordinance states that the requirements for the C-1 and A -1 districts shall be the same.
65 Editor’s Note: Side and rear setbacks are new dimensional standards for the C-1 district.
66 Editor’s Note: Text is carried over from Section 35-532 of the current Ordinance. It has been reorganized and
lightly edited for readability.
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Packet Pg. 31 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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Such plans shall satisfy the Administrator that any possible authorized activities will not
contaminate or otherwise incapacitate the land and waters of the zone.
(1) Failure to properly document these plans to conserve and protect the water, the watershed,
the natural resources, and the land will result in denial of use.
(B) Commercial timber harvesting of more than five (5) acres in the Conservation Districts shall have
a written Preharvesting Plan (Forest Management Plan). The purpose of this plan is to reduce soil
erosion and subsequent stream sedimentation through the proper design, layout, construction,
maintenance, and use of logging roads, skid roads, and loading decks used in conjunction with
timber harvesting operations.
(1) Such Preharvesting plan will be prepared by a professional forester and shall be submitted to
and approved by the Administrator prior to commencing operations.
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Packet Pg. 32 Attachment: Attachment B - Article IV District Standards (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
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ARTICLE V. - Overlay Zoning Districts.
Division 1. Establishment.1
Section 5-1-1. General.
This article establishes overlay districts, which apply additional standards to the development and
design requirements of land in the County. These district standards exist as overlays to the existing
underlying zoning districts, and, as such, the provisions for the overlay districts do not replace, but shall
serve to supplement the underlying district provisions. Pittsylvania County is hereby divided into the
following overlay zoning districts:
Table 5.1
Overlay Zoning Districts
All Overlay Districts
LSOD Lake Surface Overlay District
FOD Floodplain Overlay District
AOD Airport Overlay District
Division 2. Lake Surface Overlay District (LSOD).2
Section 5-2-1. Purpose and Intent.
(A) Purpose. The purpose of the LSOD is to encourage public health, safety, and welfare with equitable
and enforceable conditions for waterfront development in Pittsylvania County.
(B) Intent. The intent of these regulations is to protect shoreland, enhance public recreation and water
safety, and advance the public’s general welfare and quality of life on the lakes within the
jurisdiction of Pittsylvania County.
(1) Where the LSOD exists, only the following primary zoning districts shall be permitted under the
LSOD to protect the health, safety, and welfare of water and lakes within the jurisdiction of
Pittsylvania County:3
(i) A-1, General Agriculture
1 Editor’s Note: This is a new Division proposed for inclusion to establish all Overlay Zoning Districts and to establish
the relationship between these overlays and underlying primary zoning districts.
2 Editor’s Note: Most of this text is carried over directly from Article IV, Division 1 of the current Zoning Ordinance. It
has been reorganized and simplified where possible for readability.
3 Editor’s Note: This text is added for clarity and protection of the water. This may be occurring in practice based on
the districts with LSOD rear setbacks already designated in the current Ordinance .
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(ii) R-E, Residential Estates
(iii) R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District
(iv) RC-1, Residential Combined Subdivision District
(v) RMF, Residential Multifamily District
(vi) RPD, Residential Planned Unit Development District
(vii) C-1, Conservation District
Section 5-2-2. Applicability.
(A) These provisions shall apply to the surface waters of Smith Mountain Lake, Leesville Lake, and other
lakes of one hundred (100) acres or greater in Pittsylvania County, and to all parcels immediately
adjacent to the same.4
(1) These provisions shall also apply to the flowage easement area of Smith Mountain Lake, as
established by the Appalachian Power Company.
(B) Peripheral boundaries of the LSOD may overlap district zones of the applicable primary district
zones as listed in Section 5-2-1 (B) (1), above.
Section 5-2-3. Development and Design Standards.5
(A) In addition to the development standards specified in this Ordinance for underlying primary
districts, the following additional standards shall apply in all LSOD overlays:
(1) Setbacks.6
(i) All front and side setbacks shall adhere to the standards of the underlying zoning district,
as outlined in Article IV, Primary Zoning Districts, of this Ordinance.
(a) Front yards for lots and lots in subdivisions that border Smith Mountain Lake shall be
assumed to be located between the principal building on the lot and the road fronting
the lot. Front yards shall not be the area between the principal building and the lake.
(ii) The rear setbacks for all structures within an LSOD shall be as follows:
4 Editor’s Note: Section 35-545 of the existing Ordinance includes text applying the provisions of the LSOD to lakes
with four or more shoreline landowners. This text has been removed due to conflict with other provisions of the LSOD
and due to its restrictive nature.
5 Editor’s Note: This is a new Section proposed for inclusion to address development and design standards for the
LSOD.
6 Editor’s Note: Rear setbacks for parcels within the LSOD are currently included in each zoning district’s regulations.
They are proposed for inclusion in this Division for greater clarification and to streamline all dimensional standards
for parcels in the LSOD.
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Packet Pg. 34 Attachment: Attachment C - Article V Overlay Zoning Districts (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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Table 5.2
Lake Surface Overlay District Rear Setbacks 7
Primary Zoning
District
Smith Mountain
Lake
Leesville Lake; all
other lakes 100
acres or greater
Agricultural Districts
A-1 40 ft. 40 ft.
Residential Districts
RE 40 ft. 40 ft.
RC-1 20 ft. 30 ft.
R-1 20 ft. 40 ft.
R-MF 30 ft. 30 ft.
RPD 30 ft.
20 ft. for single-
family detached
dwellings only
Conservation Districts
C-1 40 ft. 40 ft.
(2) Fencing. All fences erected in LSOD districts shall comply with the standards of Article VIII,
Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(3) Lighting. All lighting installed in LSOD districts shall comply with the standards of Article VIII,
Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(4) Signs. All signs erected in LSOD districts shall comply with the standards of Article VIII,
Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(5) Parking and Loading Areas. All parking and loading areas in LSOD districts shall comply with the
standards of Article VIII, Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(6) Landscaping. All landscaping in LSOD districts shall comply with the standards of Article VIII,
Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(7) Erosion and Sediment Control. All development in LSOD districts shall adhere to the standards
required in Chapter 4, Buildings, of the Pittsylvania County Code.
Section 5-2-4. Piers, Docks, and Boathouses.
(A) Piers and Docks. The following regulations shall apply to all piers and docks located within the LSOD:
7 Editor’s Note: The current Ordinance establishes these setbacks within the primary district dimensional standards;
they have been moved to this Article for clarity.
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(1) All piers and docks may extend over the water for a maximum distance of eighty (80) feet from
the shoreline regardless of water depth at full pond height.
(i) If the lake depth at full pond height is ten (10) feet or greater, piers and docks may extend
to a maximum distance of one hundred and twenty (120) feet from the shoreline.
(ii) If the pier or dock is in a cove, it shall not extend more than one-third of the width of the
cove, measured from the shore at the point of the proposed construction to the nearest
point on the opposite shoreline.
(2) All piers and docks shall extend into the water to remain confined within a projection of the
side or rear lot lines of the parcel on which the pier is located.
(3) Construction of all piers and docks shall conform to the provisions of this Ordinance and all
other applicable local, state, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations.
(B) Boathouses and Similar Structures. The following regulations shall apply to all boathouses and
similar structures located within the LSOD:8
(1) All boathouses and similar structures shall be required to conform to the length requirements
as stated in (A), above.
(2) No boathouse or similar structure shall exceed a height greater than twenty (20) feet from full
pond level if it has a flat roof, or twenty-eight (28) feet from full pond level if it has a pitched
roof.
(3) Boathouses or similar structures shall not have septic hookups or be used as living quarters of
any kind.
(4) No boathouse or similar structure shall have more than two (2) stories.
(i) Second stories of boathouses or similar structures shall not be enclosed.
(5) Screened areas of all boathouses or other similar structures are not considered enclosed areas.
Construction of all piers and docks shall conform to the provisions of this Ordinance and all
other applicable local, state, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations.
(C) There shall be no more than three separate, freestanding piers, docks, or boathouses on any one
residential lot.9
Section 5-2-5. Moorings and Floats.
(A) Moorings and floats shall be placed in lakes for navigational purposes only with the expressed
written approval of the Administrator.10
8 Editor’s Note: (2), (3), and (4) are new standards introduced to ensure that boathouses are constructed and used
only as defined in Article X, Definitions.
9 Editor’s Note: This is a new regulation intended to limit the number of structures and associated land disturbance
on residential lots in the LSOD.
10 Editor’s Note: The current Ordinance gives the Board of Supervisors the authority to review and approve all
moorings and floats; however, this is proposed to be an administrative process to streamline application review.
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(B) The following regulations shall apply to all moorings and floats located within the LSOD:
(1) Moorings and floats shall be located to permit unobstructed passage of boats.
(2) Moorings and floats shall not be anchored in any manner to deny or obstruct access to lakes
from boathouses, piers, docks, or boat launch ramps.
(3) Moorings and floats shall be separated on every side from any other mooring or float by a
minimum distance of fifty (50) feet.
Section 5-2-6. Variances.
Any person desiring to erect or increase the height or size of any structure not in accordance with the
regulations prescribed in this Article may apply for a variance from these regulations in accordance
with Article III, Permits and Applications, of this Ordinance.11
Division 3. Floodplain Overlay District (FOD).12
Section 5-3-1. Purpose and Intent.
The purpose of the FOD is to prevent the loss of life and property, the creation of health and safety
hazards, the disruption of commerce and governmental services, the extraordinary and unnecessary
expenditure of public funds for flood protection and relief, and the impairment of the tax base.
Section 5-3-2. Regulations.
Regulations for all use, activities and development in floodplain areas as designated on the official
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) shall be controlled by Chapter 23, Flood Plain Management, of the
Pittsylvania County Code.
Division 4. Airport Overlay District (AOD).13
Section 5-4-1. Purpose and Intent.
(A) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to regulate and restrict land development and the use of
property in the vicinity of the Danville Regional Airport through the establishment of the Airport
Overlay District.
(1) Land development which constitutes an airport hazard endangers the lives and property of the
users of the airport and of the occupants of land in its vicinity.
(2) Airport hazards in effect reduce the size of the area available for landing, take-off , and
maneuvering of aircraft, therefore tending to destroy or impair the utility of and public
investment in the Danville Regional Airport.
11 Editor’s Note: This is a new regulation to address applications for variances for all structures within an LSOD.
12 Editor’s Note: This Division is proposed to replace Article IV, Division 2 of the current Ordinance.
13 Editor’s Note: Most of Division 4 is text is directly from Article IV, Division 4 of the current Ordinance. It has been
reorganized and simplified where possible for readability.
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(3) Accordingly, it is declared necessary in the interest of the public health, safety, and general
welfare of the citizens of Pittsylvania County, that the prevention of hazards shall be
accomplished by the application and enforcement of special regulations relative to hazards
referred to in this Division.
(B) Intent. It is the intent of the AOD to regulate vertical encroachment obstructions within the airport
safety zone area and to regulate land uses within designated existing or projected airport noise
impact areas.
Section 5-4-2. Applicability.
These provisions shall apply to all parcels within the AOD, the boundaries of which are established on the
Pittsylvania County Zoning Map.
Section 5-4-3. General Regulations.
(A) Airport Safety Zones. Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulation, Subchapter E (Airspace), Part 77.25
et seq., or in successor federal regulations, shall delineate the locations of airport safety zones
within the AOD. 14
(B) Permits. All Site Development Plans and applications for building permits, rezonings, variances, and
Special Use Permits within the AOD shall be reviewed by the Administrator to ensure compliance
with this Division and with applicable regulations enforced by the Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) and the Virginia Department of Aviation.
(1) It shall be unlawful to construct, alter, repair, remove, or demolish, or to commence the
construction, alteration, removal, or demolition of a building or structure within the AOD
without first filing a Zoning Permit application in writing with the Administrator, as provided
for in Article III, Permits and Applications, of this Ordinance.15
(2) Any such application shall be so conditioned as to require the owner of the property or
structure in question, at their expense, to install, operate, and maintain such markings and
lights as may be deemed necessary by the Administrator, acting with the advice and
recommendation of the FAA and the manager of the Danville Regional Airport.
(3) Nothing in this Division shall prohibit the filing of an amendment or change to an application.
Any amendments shall be filed and processed in the manner of a new application.
(C) Nonconforming Uses, Lots, and Structures. Nothing in this Ordinance shall require changes in the
plans, construction, or designated use for a legally nonconforming use, lot, or structure, as
provided for in Article IX , Nonconforming Uses, Lots, and Structures, of this Ordinance.
(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section, the owner of any existing valid nonconforming
use, lot, or structure shall permit the installation, operation, and maintenance thereon of
whatever markers and lights deemed necessary by the FAA, the Virginia Department of
14 Editor’s Note: This is new text added to include reference to the federal regulations for airport safety zones.
15 Editor’s Note: The current Ordinance refers to a “zoning clearance” for new structures within an AOD. This is
outdated language; text has been updated to reflect what is occurring in practice.
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Aviation, or the Administrator to indicate to operators of aircraft the presence of that airport
obstruction.
(i) Markers and lights shall be installed, operated, and maintained at the expense of the
owner of the nonconforming use, lot, or structure.16
Section 5-4-4. Development and Design Standards.17
(A) Where there is any conflict between the provisions or requirements of any of the AOD and those
of any underlying district, the more restrictive provisions shall apply. In addition to the
development standards specified in this Ordinance for underlying primary zoning districts, the
following additional standards shall apply in all AOD areas:
(1) Setbacks. All setbacks shall comply with the standards of the underlying zoning district, as
outlined in Article IV, Primary Zoning Districts, of this Ordinance.
(2) Height.
(i) No structure or building within an AOD shall exceed 40 feet in height.
(ii) No structure, building, tower, antenna, smokestack, chimney, overhead transmission line,
or any other object shall be erected, constructed, altered, or enlarged in such a manner as
to create a hazard or obstruction in the AOD.
(3) Fencing. All fences erected in the AOD shall comply with the standards of Article VIII,
Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(4) Lighting. All lighting installed in the AOD shall comply with the standards of Article VIII,
Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance, in addition to applicable regulations of the
FAA.
(5) Signs. All signs erected in AOD districts shall comply with the standards of Article VIII,
Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance, in addition to applicable regulations of the
FAA.
(6) Parking and Loading Areas. All parking and loading areas in the AOD shall comply with the
standards of Article VIII, Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
(7) Landscaping. No landscaping in the AOD shall exceed 40 feet in height. All landscaping in the
AOD shall comply with the standards of Article VIII, Community Design Standards, of this
Ordinance.
(8) Erosion and Sediment Control. All development in the AOD shall adhere to the standards
required in Chapter 4, Buildings, of the Pittsylvania County Code.
16 Editor’s Note: This is new text, included to clarify that property owners of nonconforming uses, lots, and structures
within an AOD are still required to comply with any local, state, or federal requirements for safety markers and lighting.
17 Editor’s Note: This is a new Section proposed for inclusion to address development and design standards for the
AOD.
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Section 5-4-5. Use Regulations.
(A) Use Restrictions. No use is allowed within the AOD which:
(1) Creates electrical interference with radio communications between aircraft and the airport;
(2) Increases the difficulty of flyers to distinguish between airport lights and other lights;
(3) Results in glare in the eyes of pilots using the airport;
(4) Emits smoke which impairs visibility of the airport; or
(5) Otherwise endangers the landing, take-off, or maneuvering of aircraft.
(B) The following uses as established in Article VI, Use Matrix, of this Ordinance shall not be erected or
otherwise located in the AOD to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public:18
(1) Commercial Indoor Recreation
(2) Dwelling, Multi-Family
(3) Education Facilities
(4) Group Home
(5) Hospitals
(6) Hotels
(7) Nursing Homes
(8) Park, Manufactured Home
(9) Recreation facilities
(10) Religious Assembly
(11) Store, Large, exceeding 150,000 gross square feet.
Section 5-4-6. Variances.
Any person desiring to erect or increase the height or size of any structure or vegetation not in
accordance with the regulations prescribed in this Article may apply for a variance from these
regulations in accordance with Article III, Permits and Applications, of this Ordinance.19
18 Editor’s Note: The uses prohibited within an AOD have not changed from the current Ordinance; however, the
names of the uses have been altered to match the new use names in Article VI.
19 Editor’s Note: This is a new regulation to address applications for variances within an AOD.
5.a.d
Packet Pg. 40 Attachment: Attachment C - Article V Overlay Zoning Districts (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
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February 9, 2023
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Editor’s Note: These definitions are included for review, and to aid in understanding the concepts of the
Articles being reviewed during this Worksession. They will be placed in Article X – Definitions following the
review of the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors.
Definitions for Articles IV and V.
Adjacent. To be separated by common property lines, lot lines, streets, or roads; also known as:
abutting, adjoining, contiguous, or touching.
Airport. The term “airport” shall refer to Danville Regional Airport.
Airport hazard. An obstruction determined by the Virginia Department of Aviation or the Federal
Aviation Administration to have a substantial adverse effect on the safe and efficient utilization of
navigable airspace in the Commonwealth.
Airport safety zones. Zones which include all the area and airspace of Pittsylvania County lying equal to
and above the approach surfaces, transitional surfaces, horizontal surfaces, and conical surfaces as
applicable to an airport. Such zones shall be established and regulated by Part 77.25, 77.28, and 77.29,
Sub E (Airspace), of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, or in successor federal regulations.
Area, buildable. The portion of a lot or site, exclusive of required setbacks, landscaping, parking, loading
and access areas, or open space within which a structure may be built.
Area, gross. The total area within a lot before dedication for roads, open spaces, or other public uses –
but not including rights-of-way, easements owned by others, or marshlands/wetlands within a
development.
Boathouse. A structure designed and used for the storage of boats owned and used by the occupants
or owners of the residence or residential lot on which the structure is located.
Building. Any structure having a roof supported by columns, walls, or other means.
Building height. The vertical distance from the average grade to the highest point of the roof surface.
Cove: A lake inlet of at least one hundred (100) feet as measured from the closed end of the inlet to a
line linking the two (2) sides of the open end. The width of the open end must be at least fifty (50) feet
wide.
Density. The number of dwelling units that are allowed on a given unit of land, which shall be permitted
to include dedicated streets contained within the development. Density is determined by dividing the
total number of residential units or lots to be located on the parcel by the area of the base parcel.
Dock. A piling-mounted stationary or floating platform extending into the water and used as a landing
place for boats or to protect or form a cove. May also be referred to in this Ordinance as a “pier”.
Float. See “mooring”.
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). An official map of a community, on which the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) has delineated both the areas of special flood hazard and the risk
premium zones applicable to the community. A FIRM that has been made available digitally is called a
Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM).
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Floodplain. Those areas adjoining a river, stream, watercourse, or lake, which have been, or hereafter
are likely to be covered by floodwaters.
Flowage easement. Easement rights retained by Appalachian Power Company on certain parcels of
land at Smith Mountain Lake to allow for the rise and fall of the lake pool height during daily operations,
with allowance for flood induced variations.
Full pond height. The maximum lake level established for management. For Smith Mountain Lake, the
full pond height is established to be 795 feet. For Leesville Lake, the full pond height is established to
be 613 feet.
Grade. The average of the highest and lowest elevations along natural or improved grade (whichever
is more restrictive) along the wall of the structure that is parallel to the front setback.
Lot. A parcel of land intended to be separately owned, developed, or otherwise used as a unit,
established by plat, subdivisions, or as otherwise permitted by law. May also be referred to in this
Ordinance as a “parcel”.
Lot, corner. A lot abutting on two or more streets at their intersection.
Lot, interior . Any lot other than a corner lot but including a through lot.
Lot, regular. A lot that has direct access to a public or approved private road. They are located,
shaped, and oriented to adjacent lots in such a way that the application of general measurements
can be reasonably applied, and the location of front, side, and rear setbacks is logically determined
by, and related to, adjacent streets and setback patterns.
Lot, stem. A lot approved in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 18 of the Pittsylvania County
Code and which does not abut a public street other than by its driveway which affords access to
the lot.
Lot, through. An interior lot, fronting on two parallel or approximately parallel streets.
Lot area . The total horizontal area included within the rear, side, and front lot lines, or proposed street
lines of the lot, excluding easements for streets or highways, whether dedicated or not dedicated to
public use. Lot area for the purpose of satisfying minimum area requirements shall not include portions
under water except where the total area of a body of water is within the lot and/or constitutes less
than 20% of the lot area.
Lot depth. The distance between the front lot line and rear lot line of a lot, measured along a straight
line.
Lot frontage. The distance from which the front boundary line of the lot coincides with the abutting
street or road.
Lot line, front. A lot line connecting the foremost points of the side lot lines and delineating the lot from
the abutting street or road.
Lot line, rear. A lot line which is opposite and most distant from the front lot line and connecting the
rearmost points of the side lot lines.
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Lot line, side. Any lot line not considered a front or rear lot line.
Lot width. The horizontal distance between the side lot lines of a lot, measured at the front setback.
Mooring. A structure designated to rest on or be buried in the bed of a navigable water body to aid
navigation. The structure is attached by a chain, cable, rope, or other mechanism, and is designed to
be left in position permanently or on a seasonal basis. May also be referred to in this Ordinance as a
“float”.
Non-residential structure. A building or structure, or part of a building or structure, not occupied in
whole or in part for the purpose of human habitation. Examples include warehouse and industrial
buildings, commercial buildings, buildings for public entertainment, hotels, restaurants, educational
buildings, health buildings, etc.
On-site sewerage system, individual. A wastewater treatment system included on an individual lot on
which the Health Department has approved an individual septic tank and drain field or similar
wastewater treatment system to serve a single-family or two-family dwelling. Such wastewater
treatment system design shall not result in a point source discharge.
On-site sewerage system, mass drainfield. A wastewater treatment system approved by the Health
Department on a lot that is normally separated from residential lots. Both a septic tank and a drainfield
serve multiple residential or other units. Such wastewater treatment system design shall not result in
a point source discharge.
Open space. Land area not covered by buildings, roads, driveway and parking areas, or outdoor storage
areas – including, but not limited to, land area set aside for passive and active recreation, landscaping,
and/or natural preservation. Except as otherwise provided, open space includes setback areas that
meet the requirements defined in this Ordinance.
Pier. See “Dock”.
Public sewer system. A sewer system owned and operated by a sanitary district, public service authority,
locality, or owned and operated by a corporation and properly chartered and certified by the State
Corporation Commission that operates or will operate in the County. These systems result in a point
discharge and must be approved by the State Health Department and the State Water Control Board.
Public water system. A water system owned and operated by a sanitary district, public service authority,
locality, or owned and operated by a corporation and properly chartered and certified by the State
Corporation Commission providing drinking and/or domestic water use services to multiple users.
These systems are approved by the State Health Department and generally have at least fifteen (15)
connections or an average of twenty-five (25) individuals for at least sixty (60) days out of the year.
Right-of-Way (ROW). An area of land not on a lot that is dedicated to public use for pedestrian and
vehicular movement, which may also accommodate public utilities infrastructure (including but not
limited to water lines, sewer lines, power lines, and gas lines.)
Setback. The minimum distance by which any building or structure must be separated from a street
right-of-way or lot line.
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Setback, front. The minimum distance from the front lot line(s) to the nearest point of the allowable
structure(s), measured perpendicular to the front lot line. For Stem Lots, the front setback is the
minimum distance from the edge of the right of way or “end” of the stem portion.
Setback, rear. The minimum distance from the rear lot line to the nearest point of the allowable
structure(s), measured perpendicular to the rear lot line.
Setback, side. The minimum distance from the side lot line(s) to the nearest point of the allowable
structure(s), measured perpendicular to the side lot line(s).
Shoreline. The boundary line, at normal pool, between the land and water.
Steep slope. The portion of a lot with a grade of more than 15%, grade being the vertical elevation of
land area divided by the horizontal distance.
Structure, accessory. A subordinate structure, use of land, building, or a portion of a main building or
use which is clearly incidental to or customarily found in connection with and located on the same lot
as the principal structure or use.
Structure, principal. A building in which is conducted the primary use of the lot on which it is situated,
or where a lot contains residential uses, the principal structure on the lot shall mean the largest building
that contains any dwelling unit.
Use, principal. The principal purpose for which a lot or the main building thereon is designed, arranged,
or intended and for which it is used, occupied, or maintained.
Use, accessory. Uses of land and buildings that are found on the same parcel as the principal use but
are subordinate and incidental. Examples of accessory uses include parking, storage sheds, and
garages.
Vegetation. Any object of natural floral growth.
Yard. An open space between building or use and the adjoining lot lines, unoccupied or unobstructed
by any portion of a structure or use.
Yard, front. An open space on the same lot as a building between the front line of the building
(excluding steps) and the front lot or street line and extending across the full width of the lot.
Yard, rear. An open, unoccupied space extending across the full width of the lot, the depth of which
is the distance between the rear lot line and the rear line of the building, excluding open steps and
stoops, on the lot.
Yard, side. An open, unoccupied space extending from the front setback line to the rear setback
line, along the side of a lot, the depth of which is the distance between the side lot line and the
side line of the building, excluding open steps and stoops.
Zoning district, primary. A specifically delineated section of the County in which the regulations are
uniform and so designated on the Zoning Map.
Zoning district, overlay. A district which addresses special land use circumstances or environmental
safeguards by superimposing additional standards and regulations over the underlying Primary Zoning
5.a.e
Packet Pg. 44 Attachment: Attachment D - Pertinent Definitions for Review (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
February 9, 2023
Pertinent Definitions for Review – Worksession #3
Draft - Pertinent Definitions for Review | 5 of 5
District. Permitted uses in the underlying Primary Zoning District shall continue subject to compliance
with the regulations of the Overlay Zoning District.
5.a.e
Packet Pg. 45 Attachment: Attachment D - Pertinent Definitions for Review (3579 : Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation)