08-10-2023 Joint Meeting with Planning Commission and BZA Agenda Packet
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
JOINT MEETING WITH BZA AND PLANNING COMMISSION
Thursday, August 10, 2023 - 5:30 PM
Board Meeting Room
39 Bank Street, SE,
Chatham, Virginia 24531
AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
4. PRESENTATIONS
a. Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation (Presenter: The Berkley
Group); (Staff Contact: Emily Ragsdale)
5. ADJOURNMENT
4.a.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Information Only
Agenda Title: Zoning Ordinance Update Presentation (Presenter: The
Berkley Group);
Staff Contact(s): Emily Ragsdale
Agenda Date: August 10, 2023 Item Number: 4.a.
Attachment(s): 1. Worksession 6 Memo and Agenda
2. Attachment A - Project Schedule and Progress
3. Attachment B - Article 8 Community Design
Standards
4. Attachment C - Pertinent Definitions for
Review
5. Attachment D - BG Guide to Landscaping
Requirements
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.
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Worksession #6 Memo and Agenda
August 10, 2023
Worksession #6 Memo | Page 1 of 4
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 August 10th meeting will focus on reviewing draft Article VIII, Community Design Standards.
The following agenda is provided as an outline for discussion:
1. Schedule & Progress to Date – 5 minutes
2. Proposed Article Review – 90 minutes
a. Article VIII, Community Design Standards
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,
2022. 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
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
Worksession #6 Memo and Agenda
August 10, 2023
Worksession #6 Memo | Page 2 of 4
phase, the results 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.
• Worksession #3 – The third worksession between the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission,
and Board of Zoning Appeals was held on February 9, 2023. Articles IV and V were discussed during
this worksession. Edits were provided and have been incorporated into the draft articles.
• Worksession #4 – The fourth worksession between the Board of Supervisors, Planning
Commission, and Board of Zoning Appeals was held on April 12, 2023. Article VI was discussed
during this worksession. Edits were provided and have been incorporated into the draft article.
• Worksession #5 – The fifth worksession between the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission,
and Board of Zoning Appeals was held on June 8, 2023. Article VII was discussed during this
worksession. Edits were provided and have been incorporated into the draft article.
Proposed Article Review
See Attachment B for the proposed article for review. During review, consider the editor’s footnotes.
The provided footnotes explain inclusions, omissions, modifications, etc.
See Attachment C for definitions pertinent to Article VIII of the draft Ordinance.
See Attachment D, Guide to Landscape Standards, for an explanation of what landscaping standards are
and why they are important for inclusion in a Zoning Ordinance. Landscaping and screening
requirements are just a few of the community design standards included in Article VIII.
Attachment B: Article VIII – Community Design Standards
Article VIII, Community Design Standards, provides provisions and regulations for elements that pertain
to the character of development within the community. County staff and the community alike showed
strong support for design standards through the public engagement phase of the plan, specifically in
commercial and industrial areas through implementing landscaping, screening, and parking requirements.
The proposed standards in this Article promote consistent community aesthetics, safety, and
enforceability. Major changes and additions include:
• Consolidated and revised various provisions throughout the existing Ordinance (including Signs,
Off Street Parking, and Visibility Clearance).
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Worksession #6 Memo and Agenda
August 10, 2023
Worksession #6 Memo | Page 3 of 4
• Organized the type of provisions by type, for readability and user-friendly provisions (Visibility
Clearance; Lighting; Landscaping and Screening; Walls and Fences; Parking and Loading; Signs; and
Open Space).
• Added graphics throughout the Article to illustrate regulations, creating a more user-friendly
Ordinance.
• Visibility Clearance: Reorganized and amended existing Ordinance text for clarity.
• Lighting: Introduced all new standards for lighting, including applicability, exemptions, hours of
illumination, maximum illumination levels, and height.
• Landscaping and Screening: Introduced all new standards for landscaping and screening, including
requirements for a landscape plan, parking lot landscaping, and transitional buffers.
• Walls and Fences:
o Added maximum fence height based on the underlying zoning district.
o Added requirements for location, materials, and maintenance.
• Parking and Loading:
o Introduced general requirements and obligations of the owner for providing parking.
o Clarified when both reductions and increases in required off-street parking areas would be
considered acceptable.
o Amended existing parking design standards for clarity.
o Removed standards determining the minimum off-street parking area based on the
underlying zoning district and added standards that determine the minimum off-street
parking area based on individual uses; this eliminates inconsistencies and allows ease of
administration.
o Allows administrative determinations of parking space requirements for uses not included,
as opposed to Planning Commission determination.
o Revised number of the minimum required off-street parking spaces for various uses, based
on best practices (e.g., funeral homes based on square footage; hospitals based on number
of patient beds.)
o Introduced standards for recreational vehicle and boat parking, including requirements
that residents cannot park recreational vehicles or boats on vacant property, and that
recreational vehicles and boats shall not be in use while they are parked.
• Signs:
o Removed and revised existing regulations to ensure content neutrality as required by
federal case law.
o Added new types of prohibited signs (e.g., signs over ROW, signs affixed to poles and trees,
and signs affixed to parked cars/trailers).
o Added new types of exempt signs (e.g., memorial plaques/building cornerstones, flag signs,
etc.).
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Worksession #6 Memo and Agenda
August 10, 2023
Worksession #6 Memo | Page 4 of 4
o Added new provisions for off-site signage (owner permission required, count towards
maximum signage allowed on lot it is placed, maximum of one off-site sign per lot, etc.).
o Comprehensively revised types of signs permitted, the district in which they are permitted,
and size limits. See Tables in draft.
• Open Space: Added all new provisions for Open Space, including:
o Requirement that open space is provided for all new development within the MHP, RMF,
and RPD zoning districts.
o Minimum percentages of required open space based on district.
o Provisions stating what areas can count towards open space (natural areas, passive/active
recreation, etc.) and what areas cannot count towards open space (residential yards,
parking areas, etc.).
o Design and development standards, including configuration and location.
Next Steps
The Berkley Group will review any recommendations and comments for incorporation and finalize the
draft Article VIII. The next worksession will be held on October 11, 2023, and will be a review of the entire
draft Zoning Ordinance, along with mock development concepts from LPDA. This will be the final drafting
worksession prior to the public review phase and open house in December 2023.
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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August 10, 2023
Draft Article VIII – Community Design Standards
Article VIII – Draft Community Design Standards | Page 1 of 50
ARTICLE VIII. Community Design Standards.1
Division 1. Visibility Clearance.
Section 8-1-1. General.2
(A) For protection against traffic hazards, no planting,
sign, structure, or other impediment to visibility
greater than 3 ft. in height shall be erected,
placed, allowed to grow, or maintained within a
visibility triangle on any corner lot.
(B) The apex of the triangle shall be at the
intersection of the Virginia Department of
Transportation (VDOT) or other designated right-
of-way lines (extended in the case of rounded
corners), the sides being 20 ft. in length along the
right-of-way lines, and the base of the triangle
running through the lot.
(C) Exemptions. Where terrain features present
substantial obstacles to provision and
maintenance of such sight distance, the
Administrator may, subject to the final approval
of VDOT, permit the provision of maintenance of
lesser visibility clearance.
(1) Such clearance approved shall be the maximum allowable to reasonably maintain and ensure
the safety of road users.
Division 2. Lighting.
Section 8-2-1. Purpose and Intent.
(A) The purpose of this Division is to:
(1) Permit the use of exterior lighting at the minimum level necessary for nighttime safety, utility,
security, productivity, enjoyment, and commerce;
(2) Ensure exterior lighting does not adversely impact land uses on adjacent land by minimizing
light trespass, obtrusive light, and glare;
1 Editor’s Note: Unless otherwise noted, the community design standards proposed in this Article are new additions
and not included in the current Zoning Ordinance.
2 Editor’s Note: Section 8-1-1 is proposed to replace Section 35-52 of the existing Ordinance. Language has been
modified, with the illustration and additional language added, for complete clarity.
Figure VIII-1. Visibility Clearance.
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(3) Curtail light pollution, reduce sky glow, and preserve the nighttime environment for
astronomy, wildlife, and enjoyment of residents and visitors; and
(4) Ensure security for persons and property.
Section 8-2-2. Applicability.
(A) General. Unless exempted by (B), below, the standards of this Division shall apply to:
(1) All commercial zoning districts, industrial zoning districts, the RMF Residential Multifamily
District, the RPD Residential Planned Development District, and any property located within
any zoning district that is used for non-residential purposes through a permitted use or a
Special Use Permit, and
(2) To the maximum extent practicable, redevelopment of an existing structure, building, parking
lot, or use when it is expanded, enlarged, or otherwise increased in intensity equivalent to or
beyond 50% of its existing state.
(B) Exemptions. The following are exempted from the exterior lighting standards of this Article:
(1) Lighting within a public right-of-way or easement that is used principally for illuminating a
roadway;
(2) Lighting for single- and two-family residential development;
(3) Lighting for agricultural uses;
(4) Lighting exempt under State or Federal law;
(5) Lighting for public monuments and statuary;
(6) Lighting that is required under the Uniform Statewide Building Code;
(7) Construction lighting, provided the lighting is temporary and discontinued upon completion of
the construction activity each day;
(8) Emergency, or holiday decorative lighting, provided such lighting does not create unsafe glare
on street rights-of-way;
(9) Temporary lighting for circuses, fairs, carnivals, theatrical, and other performance areas,
provided such lighting is turned off not more than 1 hour after the last performance/event of
the day and discontinued upon completion of the final performance/event;
(10) Security lighting, provided it is directed downward, does not glare onto adjacent property, and
is controlled and activated by motion sensor devices for a duration of 15 minutes or less, unless
it can be demonstrated otherwise that there is a need for constant security lighting;
(11) Lighting for flags of the United States of America or the Commonwealth of Virginia, or any
department, division, agency or instrumentality thereof, and other noncommercial flags
expressing constitutionally protected speech;
(12) Architectural lighting of 40 watts incandescent or less;
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(13) Field lighting for an outdoor athletic facility, provided such lighting is directed and falls within
the primary playing area and is turned off at the end of the sports event;
(14) FAA-mandated lighting associated with a utility tower or airport; and
(15) The replacement of a failed or damaged luminaire that is one of a matching group serving a
common purpose installed prior to the adoption of this Division.
(C) Conformance with All Applicable Codes. All outdoor lighting shall be installed in accordance with
the provisions of this Ordinance, applicable Electrical and Energy Codes, and applicable sections of
the Building Code.
(D) Time of Review. Review for compliance with the standards of this Division shall occur as part of the
review of an application for a Site Development Plan, Residential Planned Development, Zoning
Permit, Special Use Permit, or Variance.
(E) Signs. Lighting for signage shall be governed by the standards set forth in Division 6, Signs, of this
Article.
Section 8-2-3. Standards.
(A) Hours of Illumination. Public/civic/recreational uses, commercial uses, and industrial uses (as
identified in Article VI, Use Matrix, of this Ordinance) that are adjacent to existing residential
development or residential zoning districts shall extinguish all exterior lighting, except lighting
necessary for security or emergency purposes, within 1 hour after closing and shall not turn on
such lights until within 1 hour of opening.
(1) For the purposes of this subsection, lighting necessary for security or emergency purposes shall
be construed to mean the minimum amount of exterior lighting necessary to illuminate
possible points of entry or exit into a structure, to illuminate exterior walkways and parking
areas, or to illuminate outdoor storage areas. Lighting activated by motion sensor devices is
encouraged for these purposes.
(B) Uniformity. Outdoor luminaires shall be of uniform style for each project site and conform to the
design of the project.
(C) Shielding. Each outdoor luminaire subject to these outdoor lighting requirements shall be dark sky
compliant with a full cutoff luminaire and aimed and controlled such that light is directed inward
to the property and confined to the object intended to be illuminated. Directional control shields
shall be used when necessary to limit stray light and prevent glare to adjacent properties and
vehicular public rights-of-way.
(D) Color Temperature. All exterior lights shall be 3,000 Kelvin light color temperature or less.
(E) Type. Low-pressure sodium vapor (LPS), high-pressure sodium vapor (HPS), or light emitting diode
(LED) lights shall be the preferred type of exterior site lighting.
(F) Maximum Illumination Levels. All lighting visible from outside, except for street lighting and
pedestrian area lighting, must be designed and located so that the maximum illumination at any
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lot line abutting an agricultural district, residential district, dwelling, or any public right-of-way,
does not exceed 0.5 footcandles.
(G) Canopy Lighting. Light fixtures under any gasoline canopy or other structural canopy shall be
recessed into the canopy ceiling with a flat lens to prevent glare.
(H) Window and Decorative Lighting.
(1) Window and decorative lighting as defined in Article X, Definitions, of this Ordinance:
(i) Shall not exceed the Kelvin light color temperature provided in (D), above.
(ii) Shall not flash, strobe, blink, or change color.
(I) Height. Any pole-mounted exterior lighting shall not exceed a height of 30 ft. in industrial districts
and 20 ft. in all other districts.
Section 8-2-4. Modifications and Compliance.
(A) Modifications of the lighting standards contained herein may be approved by the Administrator
upon a determination that the lighting is necessary for nighttime safety, utility, security,
productivity, and commerce and does not adversely impact pedestrians, traffic, or adjacent
properties.
(B) Modifications shall only be approved by the Administrator if the applicant proves the burden and
provides evidence to the above.
Figure VIII-1. Lighting Examples
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Division 3. Landscaping and Screening.
Section 8-3-1. Purpose and Intent.
(A) The purpose of this Division is to establish standards for landscape architecture, site design, site
buffering, and landscape screening. With the intent of preserving and promoting the health, safety,
and general welfare of the County, this Division is intended to:
(1) Preserve and enhance the aesthetic character and visual harmony of the County;
(2) Protect the quality of the County’s natural rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands;
(3) Enhance erosion control;
(4) Improve the relationship between adjacent properties through screening, buffering, and
proper placement and design of landscaping and screening;
(5) Promote economic development in the County’s commercial districts and main thoroughfares;
and
(6) Ensure the safety, security, and privacy of properties.
Section 8-3-2. Application of Landscaping and Screening Requirements.
(A) General. The requirements of this Division shall apply to new construction, developments, or
redevelopments in all zoning districts requiring an approved Site Development Plan, Special Use
Permit, or Zoning Permit specified by this Ordinance.
(B) Exemptions. The following are exempted from the landscaping and screening standards of this
Article:
(1) Agricultural uses as identified in Article VI, Use Matrix, of this Ordinance; and
(2) Single- and two-family development on individual lots (not part of a Major Subdivision or
Residential Planned Development)
(C) Timing of Review. Review for compliance with the standards of this Division shall occur as part of
the review of an application for a Site Development Plan, Residential Planned Development, Zoning
Permit, Special Exception, or Variance.
Section 8-3-3. Landscape Plan Requirements.
(A) Landscape Plan Required. A Landscaping Plan shall be required for all new construction,
developments, or redevelopments in all zoning districts requiring an approved Site Development
Plan, Special Use Permit, or Zoning Permit specified by the Ordinance. The Landscaping Plan shall:
(1) Be prepared and/or certified by a certified professional or firm qualified to create such a plan;
provided, however, that in the case of a single lot disturbing less than 2,500 sq. ft., the
landscaping plan may be prepared by the property owner.
(2) Cover the entire project area included in the overall Site Development Plan or development
plan for which approval is sought.
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(B) Landscape Plan Contents. The landscape plan shall include:
(1) Location, species, size, height, and number of proposed plantings;
(2) Planting specifications or installation details with consideration of the appropriateness of
plants and locations for the specific characteristics of the site and the purpose for installation;
(3) Information about the general location, composition, and extent of existing vegetation (plants,
trees, shrubs, etc.) to be retained during construction, as well as protection measures to be
implemented during construction;
(i) The information shall include the successional stage of the vegetation, a list of the primary
tree species, a list of the prominent non-native invasive species, and a statement regarding
the general age, health, and condition of the vegetation.
(4) Location, size, and other related design details for all hardscape improvements, ground-
mounted signage, recreational improvements, open space areas, fences, walls, barriers, and
other related elements;
(5) Designation of required setbacks, yards, and screening areas;
(6) Location of other man-made site features, parking lots, overhead structures, and underground
utilities to ensure that landscape materials will not be in conflict with the placement and
operation of these improvements; and
(7) A preference to design and plant materials which are native and with reduced water needs.
(C) Landscape Plan Bond. After a Landscape Plan has been approved, and before any planting or
disturbance can occur, the developer shall furnish to the County an irrevocable letter of credit,
cash escrow, or bonds (collectively referred to as “performance bond”) from a certified Virginia
Lending Institution by corporate surety in a form and amount sufficient to guarantee the
completion of all required improvements.
(1) The cost of required landscaping shall be determined by a bona fide estimate of cost prepared
by a duly licensed landscape architect, engineer, or other licensed professional, and such
estimate shall be provided at the expense of the developer.
Section 8-3-4. General Standards.
(A) Tree and Plant Standards.
(1) Existing trees and vegetation shall be preserved to the greatest extent possible.
(i) Existing, healthy trees and shrubs shall be credited toward any minimum landscaping
required by this Division, provided they meet minimum size standards of (B), below, and
are protected before and during construction and maintained thereafter in a healthy
growing condition.
(ii) Where existing vegetation is not adequate to achieve the required landscaping or
screening, additional plants shall be installed as necessary to meet the objective, and in
accordance with the standards of this Division.
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(2) Any required landscaping shall be installed prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
(i) When the planting of required landscaping conflicts with the planting season, a Certificate
of Occupancy may be issued subject to approval by the Administrator that a sufficient
surety is in place.
(ii) The owner or developer shall provide a development agreement which sets a deadline by
which the plantings will be installed to be approved by the Administrator.
(3) The owner of the property upon which the required landscaping or buffering is installed shall
be responsible for maintenance and replacement.
(4) All plantings shall be maintained in perpetuity in such a way to ensure that the requirements
of this Ordinance continue to be met.
(i) Any dead or dying plants shall be removed within 30 days of notification by the
Administrator. If notified during winter, such plants may be replaced by the property
owner during the next viable planting season.
(5) Landscaping materials should generally be sustainable and biologically diverse with emphasis
on trees and plants native to Virginia and the Pittsylvania County region.
(6) Plants shall be nursery grown and materials shall conform to the requirements described in the
latest edition of American Standard for Nursery Stock, as published by the American
Association of Nurserymen, as amended.
(7) Landscaping shall not obstruct the view of motorists using any street, driveway, parking isles,
or the approach to any street intersection so as to constitute a traffic hazard or a condition
dangerous to public safety.
(8) Plant materials shall be installed via dig, ball, burlap, and transplant. Bare-root planting is not
permitted for any tree.
(9) For buffers in which more than 20 trees are required, no individual species shall comprise more
than 30% of the total number of plants required within the buffer.
(B) Tree Measurement Standards.
(1) Caliper measurements shall be taken 6 inches above grade for trees under 4 inches in diameter.
Caliper measurements shall be taken 12 inches above grade for trees 4 inches in diameter and
larger.
(2) All required landscaping materials shall conform to the following minimum size or height
standards provided in Table VIII-1, Minimum Plant Measurements.
Table VIII-1. Minimum Plant Measurements
Plant Type Minimum at Planting Minimum at Maturity
Deciduous trees 2-inch caliper; no height minimum 50 ft. height Evergreen trees 6 ft. height
Ornamental and understory trees 4 ft. height 20 ft. height
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Shrubs 18-inch spread or height 3 ft. spread or height
(C) Tree Protection Standards.3
(1) Trees which are to be preserved on site shall be protected before, during, and after the
development process utilizing accepted practices. At a minimum, the tree protection practices
set out in the Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook, as amended, shall be utilized.
(2) Trees selected for preservation in order to obtain landscaping credits shall be shown on the
landscape plan and clearly marked. In wooded areas, groups of trees shall be selected for
preservation rather than single trees wherever possible.
(3) Trees and groups of trees which are to be preserved shall be enclosed by a temporary fence or
barrier to be located and maintained 5 ft. outside of their dripline during construction.
(i) Such a fence or barrier shall be installed prior to clearing or construction, shall be sufficient
to prevent intrusion into the fenced area during construction, and in no case shall
materials, vehicles, or equipment be stored or stockpiled within the enclosure.
(ii) Within the fenced area, the topsoil layer shall not be disturbed except in accordance with
accepted tree protection practices.
(4) No healthy deciduous tree(s) with a caliper of 15 inches or greater shall be removed from the
site unless such trees are replaced.
(i) Such trees shall be shown on the Landscaping Plan.
(ii) These replacement trees shall be in addition to landscaping required by this Division.
(iii) No replacement tree shall have a caliper of less than 3 inches, measured 6 inches from the
ground, at the time of planting.
(iv) The total caliper of replacement trees shall equal or exceed the total caliper of trees 15
inches or greater removed from the site.
(5) The developer shall be responsible for notifying all construction personnel of the presence and
purpose of clearing limits and protective fences or barriers, and for ensuring that they are
preserved.
(6) Where grade changes are necessary in excess of 6 inches from the existing natural grade level,
permanent protective structures such as tree wells or walls shall be installed as recommended
by the tree preservation and protection standards outlined in the Virginia Erosion and
Sediment Control Handbook, as amended.
(7) In determining which trees shall be preserved, consideration shall be given to preserving trees
which:
3 Editor’s Note: Code of Virginia § 15.2-961 allows for localities to require minimum tree canopy percentages based
on the type of development (residential, commercial, etc.) These provisions can be included, if desired.
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(i) Are of 15-inch caliper or larger;
(ii) Are ornamental trees of any size;
(iii) Are within required setbacks or along boundaries unless necessary to remove for access,
grading, circulation, utilities, or drainage;
(iv) Are heritage, memorial, significant, and specimen trees;
(v) Complement the project design including the enhancement of the architecture and
streetscape appearance;
(vi) Can tolerate environmental changes to be caused by development (i.e., increased sunlight,
heat, wind, and alteration of water regime);
(vii) Have strong branching and rooting patterns;
(viii) Are disease and insect resistant;
(ix) Exist in natural groupings, including islands of trees;
(x) Are located within required buffer areas;
(xi) Do not conflict with necessary utility; and,
(xii) Have been recommended by the Commonwealth Department of Forestry, the County
cooperative extension service, or a certified arborist or urban forester for preservation.
Section 8-3-5. Transitional Buffers.4
(A) Applicability. The standards of this Section apply to:
(1) All new development; except as provided in (B), below;
(2) Major Subdivisions; and
(3) A proposed change of use of an existing structure that requires a Zoning Map Amendment
(rezoning).
(B) Exceptions. A transitional buffer is not required:
(1) For any single- or two-family dwelling not part of a larger development;
(2) Between uses, buildings, or lots developed under a common plan or operated under common
management; or
(3) As exempt in Table VIII-2, Transitional Buffer Type Required, below.
(C) Screening Alternative. The applicant may propose, and the Administrator may approve, a screening
alternative where a building or screening has been specifically designed to minimize adverse effects
through a combination of architectural and landscaping techniques, and the Administrator
4 Editor’s Note: The purpose of this Section is to address the use of buffer yards as a transitional tool between
conflicting uses and districts.
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determines the building or screening is consistent with the purposes of this Section. See Table VIII-
4, Alternative Transitional Buffer, below.
(D) Transitional Buffer Types Required. Table VIII-2, Transitional Buffer Type Required, identifies the
type of transitional buffer, if any, required between a proposed use and adjacent
property/development. Table VIII-3, Minimum Plantings, provide the minimum width and planting
standards for each transitional buffer type.
(1) “Adjacent” includes land closer to the proposed use than the required buffer width, even if
they are separated by a narrow strip of land with different zoning districts.
(2) Transitional buffers for Residential Planned Developments will be determined as part of the
rezoning process.
(E) Location and Design.
(1) Transitional buffers must be located along any lot lines abutting adjacent zoning districts,
including those separated by any public road, except where driveways or other openings are
permitted.
(2) Transitional buffers may be located in required minimum front, side, or rear setbacks.
(3) Transitional buffers may be as follows:
(i) Types A and B shall fill the required minimum buffer width, as provided in Table VIII-3, and
plantings should be dispersed to create a natural setting.
(ii) Type C shall be provided in a minimum of two staggered rows, with each row containing
the plantings provided in Table VIII-3.
(iii) Type D shall be provided in staggered rows which at maturity will fill the required buffer
width and with each row containing the plantings provided in Table VIII-3.
(4) Development within a transitional buffer is limited to the following:
(i) Fences and walls, including retaining walls, in accordance with Division 4 of this Article;
(ii) Sidewalks, trails, and other pedestrian/bicycle paths that intersect the transitional buffer
yard at or near a 90-degree angle;
(iii) Areas of ingress and egress, fire hydrants, utilities, and other public infrastructure; and
(iv) Flag poles and permitted signs.
(5) Development within a transitional buffer must not reduce the separation of land uses or
interfere with the required plantings.
(6) A continuous 10 ft. deep landscape strip, exclusive of easements, shall be located adjacent to
any stormwater management facility or Best Management Practice(s) (BMP) when it:
(i) Is located in any residential or commercial district; or
(ii) Encroaches into a required side or rear setback.
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Table VIII-2. Transitional Buffer Type Required
District of Proposed Development
Adjacent Property/Development/District
A-1, C-1,
RE
R-1
RC-1
RMF
MHP
B-1
B-2
M-1
M-2
Major Subdivisions Type B Type A Type A
n/a
A-1, C-1, RE,
R-1, RC-1
non-residential uses Type B Type B Type B
all other uses n/a
MHP Type B Type B Type A n/a n/a
RMF Type A Type A n/a n/a n/a
B-1, B-2 Type B Type B Type B n/a n/a
M-1 Type C Type C Type C Type C n/a
M-2 Type D Type D Type D Type C n/a
n/a = transitional buffer not required
Table VIII-3. Minimum Plantings
Buffer
Type
Minimum Buffer
Width (in feet)
Number of Required
Large Deciduous or
Evergreen Trees
(per 100 linear feet)1
Number of Required
Ornamental or
Understory Trees
(per 100 linear feet)1
Required Shrubs
(per 100 linear feet)1
A 10 2 1 3
B 20 3 5 5
C 30 8 8 10
D2 100 10 0 20
1 Where fractional numbers result, the required number of plantings shall be rounded up to the nearest whole
number.
2 Evergreen plugs are permitted beyond the first 50 ft. of a Type D buffer. The first 50 ft. of a Type D buffer
would be measured starting at the edge of the public right-of-way and moving inward to the starting point of
the use. Only the minimum plantings required in this Table are permitted within the first 50 ft. of a Type D
buffer, and the minimum buffer width regardless of the type of plantings used shall be 100 ft.
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Figure VIII-3. Example of Transitional Buffer Type A
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Figure VIII-4. Example of Transitional Buffer Type B
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Figure VIII-5. Example of Transitional Buffer Type C
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Figure VIII-6. Example of Transitional Buffer Type D
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Table VIII-4. Alternative Transitional Buffer
Buffer Alternative
Minimum Height of
Screening Alternative
(in feet)
Reduction2 in Minimum
Buffer Width
(in feet)
Reduction in
Required Plantings
(percentage)
Solid wall/fence1 6
15
25
Evergreen plantings in an
unbroken strip (at maturity)
6 (planted)
50 (maturity) 50
Berm3 6 ft., with a maximum
slope of 2:1 No decrease 25
1 Walls and fences must comply with the standards in Division 4 of this Article.
2 The minimum width of a transitional buffer must not be reduced below 10 ft.
3 Required plantings shall be located on the berm.
Section 8-3-6. Parking Lot Landscaping.
(A) General.
(1) To provide shade, screen views, and mitigate stormwater runoff, all vehicle parking areas shall
include landscaping as required in this Section.
(2) Parking lot landscaping for all developed, vacant, and abandoned commercial, industrial, or
mixed-use development shall be installed and continuously maintained by the owner according
to the requirements contained in this Article.
(i) Grass and groundcover (not including shrubs, bushes, etc.) shall be maintained to grass
height of no more than 12 in. from grade.
(ii) Grass areas shall be maintained in good condition with uniform grass coverage and free
from rill or gully erosion.
(iii) Any dead or dying plants shall be removed within 30 days of notification by the
Administrator. If notified during winter, such plants may be replaced by the property
owner during the next viable planting season.
(B) Exemptions.
(1) The landscape provisions of this Division shall not apply to off-street parking for individual
single- or two-family residential dwellings or for parking garages or similar multi-level parking
structures.
(2) In the case of redevelopment proposals, parking lot landscape requirements do not apply to
those proposals that are not required to add parking spaces over those that are currently
provided.
(C) Parking Lot Landscape Buffers.
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(1) Where a parking lot (or a private driveway providing access to a parking lot or building entry)
abuts a residential district, agricultural district, or a public right-of-way, a landscaping strip of
at least 10 ft. in width shall be located between the parking lot and the abutting property line.
See Figure VIII-6, Example of Parking Lot Landscape Buffers, below.
(i) A minimum of 1 deciduous shade tree for each 50 ft. of contiguous property line shall be
placed in the landscape strip.
(ii) A minimum of 5 shrubs for each 40 ft. of contiguous property line shall be planted in the
landscape strip.
(iii) The landscape strip may include a sidewalk or trail. The remainder of the landscape strip
must contain groundwater, turf, trees, shrubs, or be mulched.
(iv) The landscape strip shall maintain a visibility clearance of at least 4 ft. at all ingresses and
egresses for vehicular traffic.
Figure VIII-6. Example of Parking Lot Landscape Buffers.
(D) Parking Lot Landscape Islands.
(1) Landscaped planting islands shall be provided in the interior of the following types of parking
lots:
(i) The total size of the parking lot exceeds 75 total parking spaces.
(2) Minimum standards for landscape parking islands:
(i) If the total size of the parking lot exceeds 125 total parking spaces, there shall be one island
for every other double-row of parking. See Figure VIII-7, Example of Parking Lot Landscape
Island, below.
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(ii) Landscape parking islands shall be at least 10% of the parking area.
(iii) A minimum of 1 tree shall be provided for every 5 spaces of required parking. The
remaining area of the island(s) shall be landscaped with shrubs, ground cover, lawn, or
additional trees.
(iv) Planting islands shall have a minimum width of 8 ft. to allow for bumper overhang and shall
otherwise provide adequate width for the growth and maintenance of the intended
landscape materials to be planted therein. See Figure VIII-7, Example of Parking Lot
Landscape Islands, below.
(v) Planting islands shall maintain a visibility clearance of at least 4 ft. at both ends of the island
to ensure vehicular traffic and pedestrian safety.
(vi) The landscaping islands shall be dispersed throughout the parking lot, with interior
dimensions of any planting area (i.e. interior parking median or island) sufficient to protect
and maintain all landscaping materials planted therein.
Figure VIII-7. Example of Parking Lot Landscape Islands.
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Figure VIII-8. Example of Parking Lot Landscape Islands.
Section 8-3-7. Screening and Enclosures.5
(A) Except on lots where the principal use is a single- or two-family dwelling, manufactured home, or
any agricultural use, the following objects and areas must be screened from public view at ground
level, both on and off the premises, in accordance with this Section:
(1) Large waste receptables (dumpsters) and refuse and recycling collection points (including
containers);
(2) Loading and service areas;
(3) Outdoor storage areas;
(4) Utility and mechanical equipment, such as generators, HVAC units, utility meters, junction and
accessory boxes, and transformers;
(5) Stormwater management facilities, when not developed as a site amenity in accordance with
Division 7, Open Space, of this Article; and
5 Editor’s Note: Rather than specifying uses that may need screening, this Section provides general screening
requirements for “unsightly” elements.
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(6) All other uses or elements where screening is required as identified in Article VII, Use
Performance Standards, of this Ordinance.
(B) Screening/enclosures shall be comprised singularly, or of a combination of:
(1) A solid masonry wall or opaque fence, in accordance with Division 4, Walls and Fences, of this
Article.
(2) A double, unbroken row of evergreens that, at maturity, blocks visibility of the object being
screened.
(3) A planted berm.
(C) Access to all grease containers, recycling and trash containers, and other outside storage shall be
through gates capable of closure when not in use. All gates shall be closed and secured when not
in use.
Section 8-3-8. Modifications.
(A) Modifications to the layout and design standards contained herein may be approved through a
waiver by the Administrator upon a determination that the following conditions exist:
(1) The proposed layout and design provide landscaping which will have the same or increased
screening impact, intensity, or variation throughout the year when viewed from adjacent
properties or rights-of-way as that which would be required by strict interpretation of the
standards contained in this Division.
(2) The proposed layout and design fully integrate and complement the existing trees to be
preserved on the site.
(3) Any trees or shrubs installed or preserved on the site which exceed the minimum numerical
requirements of this Division shall not be subject to the species mixture, locational,
maintenance, or replacement requirements contained herein.
Division 4. Walls and Fences.
Section 8-4-1. Purpose and Intent.
The purpose of this Division is to provide standards to ensure that walls and/or fences used to provide
buffering, privacy, separation, security, or for aesthetic reasons, will not create an unsightly or unsafe
condition on or off the public or private property on which the fence or wall is proposed.
Section 8-4-2. Application of Walls and Fences Requirements.
(A) The provisions of this Division shall apply to all construction, reconstruction, or replacement of
walls and/or fences within the R-1, RC-1, MHP, RMF, commercial, industrial, and residential
planned development districts, except:
(1) Walls and/or fences required for the physical support of a principal or accessory structure;
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(2) Walls and/or fences erected temporarily for construction sites or a similar purpose, provided
that they comply with all relevant requirements of the Uniform Statewide Building Code and
do not block sight distance;
(3) Landscaping berms without fences;
(4) Walls and/or fences necessary for soil erosion control;
(5) Walls and/or fences at government facilities;
(6) Customary fencing provided as part of a permitted tennis court, athletic field, and similar
recreational facility will be exempt from the height standards;
(7) Fences for protecting livestock or for other similar agricultural functions, if part of a use in the
agricultural use classification; and
(8) Fences for tree protection (temporary and permanent).
Section 8-4-3. Location.
(A) Walls and/or fences shall not:
(1) Be located within the public right-of-way;
(2) Be installed in a manner, or in a location, so as to block or divert a natural drainage flow on to
or off of any other land, unless the fence or wall has specifically been approved as part of an
approved stormwater management plan;
(3) Be constructed in a manner or in a location that impairs safety or sight lines for pedestrians
and vehicles traveling on public rights of way; or
(4) Prevent immediate view of, or access to, fire hydrants or other fire-fighting water supply
devices.
(B) Walls and/or fences may be located within any required setback or yard.
(C) Walls and/or fences located within an easement shall receive written authorization from the
easement holder or the County, as appropriate.
(1) The County shall not be responsible for damage to, or the repair or replacement of, fences that
must be removed to access such easements or facilities.
(2) Walls and/or fences within required transitional buffers shall be installed so as to not disturb
or damage existing vegetation or installed plant material.
Section 8-4-4. Height.6
(A) Maximum Height. Walls and/or fences shall be permitted in accordance with the following
standards:
6 Editor’s Note: Section 35-121 of the current Ordinance establishes a minimum fence height of 6 ft. This requirement
has been retained for commercial and industrial districts but removed for residential districts. Maximum fence heights
have been proposed and are based on the underlying zoning district.
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(1) No wall and/or fence between a street and a front building line shall be more than 4 ft. in
height.
(2) And not forgoing Section 8-4-4(A), above:
(i) Walls and/or fences in any R-1, RC-1, RMF, or residential planned development district
shall not exceed 7 ft. in height above the existing grade without approval of a Special Use
Permit;
(ii) Walls and/or fences in any commercial zoning district shall be at least 6 ft. in height but
shall not exceed 8 ft. in height above the existing grade without approval of a Special Use
Permit; and
(iii) Walls and/or fences in any industrial zoning district shall be at least 6 ft. in height but shall
not exceed 10 ft. in height above the existing grade without approval of a Special Use
Permit.
(B) Measuring Height. Wall and/or fence height will be measured parallel along the side of the fence
from the highest point above grade to where the grade is lowest but excluding the height of any
retaining wall directly beneath the fence or wall. Supporting columns or posts may extend up to 18
inches above the maximum allowed height for the wall and/or fence. See Figure VIII-9, Measuring
Fence Height and Figure VIII-10, Supporting Column Height, below.
Figure VIII-9. Measuring Fence Height.
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Figure VIII-10. Supporting Column Height.
Section 8-4-5. Materials.
(A) Permitted Materials.
(1) Walls and/or fences shall be constructed of any combination of:
(i) Treated or rot-resistant wood or similar composite wood material;
(ii) Wrought iron;
(iii) Decorative metal materials; or
(iv) Brick, stone, masonry materials, or products designed to resemble these materials.
(v) Where wood, masonry, or other opaque materials are specified for particular types of
screening or buffering fences or walls, all other fence materials are prohibited.
(2) All wall and/or fence segments located along a single lot side shall be composed of a uniform
style, materials, and color compatible with other parts of the wall and/or fence.
(B) Prohibited Materials. Walls and/or fences made of debris, junk, rolled plastic, sheet metal,
plywood, or waste materials are prohibited in all zoning districts unless such materials have been
recycled and reprocessed into new building materials that resemble the customary materials listed
in Section 8-4-5(A), above.
(1) Barbed wire fences are prohibited in the RC-1, MHP, RMF, RPD, B-1, and B-2 districts.
(C) Chain Link Fencing.7 Chain link fencing shall be allowed, subject to the following requirements:
(1) Permitted in agricultural, conservation, R-1, RE, RC-1, and MHP districts.
(2) Permitted in RMF, RPD, commercial, and industrial districts , subject to the following:
(i) The chain link fencing shall be coated with black or dark green vinyl.
7 Editor’s Note: Section 35-121 of the current Ordinances states that fencing shall be opaque unless otherwise
approved. Chain link fencing is proposed to be permitted, but subject to additional design standards in certain zoning
districts.
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(ii) Where opaque fencing is required, the chain link fencing may include black or dark green
opaque slats.
(D) Finished Side to Outside. Wherever walls and/or fences are installed, if one side of the wall and/or
fence appears more “finished” than the other (e.g., one side has visible support framing and the
other does not), then the more “finished” side of the fence shall face the perimeter of the lot,
rather than the interior of the lot.
Section 8-4-6. Maintenance.
(A) All walls and/or fences shall be maintained in good repair and in a safe and attractive condition.
(B) The owner of the property on which walls and/or fences are located shall be responsible for
maintenance, including but not limited to, the replacement of missing, decayed, or broken
structural and decorative elements.
Division 5. Parking and Loading.
Section 8-5-1. Purpose and Intent.
(A) The purpose of this Division is to ensure efficient traffic flow and to reduce hazards to public safety
by establishing standards for off-street parking and off-street loading areas. This Division is
intended to:
(1) Ensure adequate parking is designed and constructed during the erection of all new structures
and the modifications to existing structures;
(2) Provide safe and convenient traffic flow and add to the beautification of the County;
(3) Provide for adequate but not excessive off-street parking and loading while accommodating
alternative parking solutions for permanent, temporary, and seasonal demands; and
(4) Minimize the environmental impact of vehicular parking by avoiding excessive paved surface
areas, applying appropriate minimum parking requirements, and encouraging the use of
permeable parking surfacing.
Section 8-5-2. General.
(A) Off-street parking and loading shall be provided in all zoning districts in accordance with the
requirements of this Division.
(B) For the purposes of this Division, off-street parking shall mean an improved surface not located in
a street or alley.
(C) Parking shall be provided at the time of the erection of any building or structure, not less than the
amount of parking space(s) given in Section 8-5-8, below.
(D) Parking space(s) shall be maintained and shall not be encroached upon unless in conformance with
Section 8-5-4 and Section 8-5-5, below.
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(E) Off-street loading space(s), as required in Section 8-5-11, below, shall not be construed as
supplying off-street parking.
Section 8-5-3. Obligations of Owner.
(A) The requirements for off-street parking space(s) and off-street loading space(s) shall be a
continuing obligation of the owner of the real estate on which any structure or use is located as
long as such structure or use is in existence, and the use requiring off-street parking or loading
facilities continues.
(B) It shall be unlawful for the owner of any structure or use affected by this Division to discontinue,
change, dispense with, or cause the discontinuance or change of the required off-street parking or
loading space, apart from the alternate off-street parking or loading space which meets with the
requirements of, and complies with, this Division.
(C) It shall be unlawful for any firm or corporation to use such structure without acquiring such land
or other suitable land for off-street parking or loading space(s) which meets the requirements of,
and complies with, this Division.
Section 8-5-4. Location to Use.
(A) All parking spaces required herein shall be located on the same lot with the building or principal
use served; except that:
(1) A remote parking lot may be approved by the Administrator in accordance with Article III,
Permits and Applications, of this Ordinance and shall:8
(i) Be located and maintained not to exceed 600 ft. from the principal building or use it serves;
(ii) Be established by a recorded covenant or agreement as parking space(s) to be used in
conjunction with the principal building or use and shall be reserved as such through an
encumbrance on the title of the property; and
(iii) Have an existing sidewalk or improved pathway and permanent access easement.
(a) If none exists, the developer shall establish a sidewalk or improved pathway and a
permanent access easement that connects the parking to the use.
Section 8-5-5. Joint/Shared Parking.
(A) Required parking spaces can be used jointly by two (2) or more buildings, uses, or establishments,
as provided below:
(1) The shared parking space(s) may be used to meet no more than 75% of the required off-street
parking requirement.
(2) The shared parking space(s) must be for those uses that the normal periods of peak use are
different from the shared use.
8 Editor’s Note: Section 35-80 (3) of the existing Ordinance permits administrative approval of off-street parking on
another property.
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(3) The use(s) for which parking is being shared shall be within 600 ft., as measured along lines of
public access.
(B) In the case of mixed or joint uses of a building or premises having different peak parking demands,
the parking spaces required may be reduced up to 75% if approved by the Administrator, in
conjunction with Site Development Plan approval.
(1) In such instances, the applicants shall demonstrate that the periods of peak use are separated
sufficiently, and shared parking spaces are available to all uses sharing them, to not cause a
parking demand problem.
(C) In the case of joint use of a building or premises by more than one use having the same peak parking
demand, the parking spaces required shall equal the sum of the requirements of the various uses
computed separately.
Section 8-5-6. Reduction and/or Increase.9
(A) Reduction in Required Spaces. Off-street parking space(s) required under this Division may be
reduced at a time when the capacity or use of a building is changed in such a manner that the new
use or capacity would require less space than before the change.
(B) Increase in Required Parking. Whenever a building or use is changed or enlarged in floor area,
number of employees, number of dwelling units, seating capacity or otherwise, to create a need
under the requirements of this Division for an increase in parking spaces of 10% or more, such
additional spaces shall be provided on a basis of the change or enlargement.
(1) Parking increases shall not be circumvented by a series of changes that together would meet,
or exceed, the 10% requirement.
Section 8-5-7. Parking Design Standards.
(A) Surfacing.
(1) All parking areas consisting of 10 or more parking spaces shall have an improved surface to
prevent soil erosion, abate dust, and provide an adequate driving surface.10
(i) Improved surface shall mean concrete, asphalt, bituminous pavement, brick or stone
pavers, or other hard, all-weather, dustless, permeable pavement system.
(B) Marking. For parking areas consisting of 10 or more parking spaces, each parking space shall be
striped and maintained. Parking spaces shall be marked by painted lines, curbs, or other means to
9 Editor’s Note: Section 35-22 of the existing Ordinance states that no existing or future off-street parking or loading
area shall be reduced below what is required unless spaces are no longer required by the regulations or alternative
spaces meeting requirements are provided. Proposed to remove this text and replace it with Section 8-5-6, providing
more clear language for when reductions – and increases – in required off-street parking areas would be acceptable.
10 Editor’s Note: Part of this requirement was retained from Section 35-81 of the current Ordinance; however, it has
been expanded to clarify what is meant by “improved surface”. Propose to require markings and improved surfaces
for parking areas consisting of 10 or more spaces.
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indicate individual spaces. Signs or markers shall be used to ensure efficient traffic operation on
the lot.
(C) Location. Off-street parking areas shall be located to the side or rear of the structure it is associated
with; if it can be demonstrated that the lot could not accommodate parking area(s) to the side or
rear of the lot, the Administrator may waive this provision.
(D) Parking Space Dimensions.11
(1) Off-street parking spaces shall be a minimum width of 10 ft. and a minimum length of 20 ft.
with a minimum net area of 200 sq. ft., excluding area for egress and ingress and maneuvering
vehicles.
(E) Arrangement of Interior Aisles. All aisles within parking areas shall have the following minimum
widths:
(1) Parking spaces at a 90-degree angle: 22 ft.
(2) Parking spaces at a 60-degree angle: 18 ft.
(3) Parallel parking spaces: 12 ft.
(F) Handicap Accessible Parking. Every land use shall include the number of handicap accessible off-
street parking spaces in accordance with the requirements of the Virginia Uniform Statewide
Building Code. These parking spaces shall be included within the required amount of parking
spaces, as provided in Table VIII-5, Minimum Off-Street Parking Requirements, below.
(G) Entrances and Exits.12 The location and design of entrances and exits shall meet the VDOT traffic
safety and design requirements.
(H) Separation from Walkways and Streets.
(1) Off-street parking spaces shall be separated from walkways, sidewalks, streets, or alleys by the
required landscape buffer, a wall or fence, or curbing.
(2) Off-street parking shall not be located within 5 ft. of any commercial building.
(I) Drainage and Maintenance.13 Off-street parking areas shall be adequately drained to eliminate
standing water and prevent damage to abutting properties and/or public streets and alleys.
(J) Lighting. Adequate lighting for parking areas with 10 or more spaces shall be provided in
accordance with Division 2, Lighting, of this Article.
(1) Lighting facilities shall be arranged so that light is reflected away from adjacent properties and
streets.14
11 Editor’s Note: Dimensions retained from Section 35-80 of the existing Ordinance.
12 Editor’s Note: This statement conveys the same principle as Section 35-84 (4) of the existing Ordinance and has
been amended for clarity.
13 Editor’s Note: Requirement for adequate drainage retained from Section 35-81 of the existing Ordinance; However,
language has been added to further clarify what this requirement prevents.
14 Editor’s Note: Retained from Section 35-81 of the existing Ordinance.
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(K) Screening. Whenever a parking area is located in or adjacent to a residential district, it shall be
effectively screened in accordance with Division 3, Landscaping and Screening, of this Article.
However, areas requiring natural air circulation, unobstructed view, or other technical
considerations necessary for proper operation, may submit an alternative screening plan to be
approved by the Administrator.
(L) Fleet Vehicles. Whenever daily or overnight storage of fleet vehicles is proposed, these vehicles
shall be screened or parked to block visibility from streets or adjacent properties; screening shall
be in accordance with the requirements of Division 3, Landscaping and Screening, of this Article.
These off-street parking spaces shall be identified on an approved Site Development Plan.
Section 8-5-8. Parking Requirements.15
(A) Except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance, when any building or structure is hereafter erected
or structurally altered, or any building or structure hereafter erected is converted, off-street
parking space(s) shall be provided according to the requirements for individual uses in the following
table.16
(B) Where fractional spaces result, the parking spaces required shall be increased to be the next
highest whole number.
(C) Exemptions to off-street parking requirements are contained in Section 8-6-5 and Section 8-6-6,
above.
(D) The parking requirements in this Division are in addition to space for storage of trucks, campers,
recreational vehicles, boats, or other similar vehicles used in connection with the use.
(E) The parking requirements in this Division are in addition to any other parking requirements
contained in the district or use standards of this Ordinance.
(F) The parking requirements in this Division do not limit additional requirements that may be imposed
for approval of a Special Use Permit.
(G) Except as otherwise provided, the number of employees shall be compiled based on the maximum
number of persons employed on the premises at one time, on an average day or average night,
whichever is greater. Seasonal variations in employment may be recognized in determining an
average day.
15 Editor’s Note: The existing Ordinance includes minimum off-street parking spaces as determined by zoning district;
recommend removal of regulations tied to the underlying zoning district and have parking requirements tied to
individual uses for ease of administration and to eliminate inconsistency.
16 Editor’s Note: This statement conveys the same principle as Section 35-80 of the existing Ordinance and has been
amended for clarity.
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(H) The parking space requirements for a use not specifically listed in the chart shall be the same as for
a listed use of similar characteristics of parking demand generation, as determined by the
Administrator.17
(I) In order to minimize the adverse impacts caused by improving large areas with impervious
surfaces, including increased storm water run-off, urban heat island effects, and nonpoint source
pollution, the total number of parking spaces serving a use may not exceed the minimum parking
standards in Table VIII-5 by more than 20%, unless one of the following apply:18
(1) Any spaces in excess of 20% of the minimum number required are located in a structured
parking facility; or
(2) A Landscape Plan that provides additional pervious landscape surfaces and increases
stormwater filtration has been reviewed and approved by the Administrator; or
(3) The applicant for the project shall apply and receive approval through a Special Use Permit.
Table VIII-4. Minimum Off-Street Parking Requirements.19
Use(s) Minimum Number of Required Spaces
Residential Uses
Bed and Breakfast; Short-Term Rental 1 per bedroom, plus 1 per owner/operator
Dwelling, Accessory 1 per accessory dwelling unit
Dwelling, Manufactured;
Dwelling, Single-, Two-Family; 2 per dwelling unit
Dwelling, Townhouse 2 per dwelling unit, plus 1 guest space per unit
Dwelling, Multi-Family 2 per unit, plus 1 guest space per 5 units
Family Home Day Care (1-4 children) 1, plus residential requirement
Family Home Day Care (5-12 children) 3, plus residential requirement
Group Home
Life Care Facility 1 per 4 residents, plus 1 per 2 employees
Home Occupation, Class A Residential requirement based on dwelling type
Home Occupation, Class B 3, in addition to residential requirement
Residential Shelter 1 per 500 sq. ft.
17 Editor’s Note: The current Ordinance requires the Planning Commission to determine the parking requirements in
this scenario; However, to reduce the time and cost burden to the applicant, it is recommended to make this
determination administratively.
18 Editor’s Note: New provision of maximum parking limits to control amount of land used for parking.
19 Editor’s Note: Unless otherwise noted, parking requirements have been retained from Section 35-82 of the existing
Ordinance. Some names of uses may be amended, or uses consolidated, to align with uses listed in Article VI, Use
Matrix.
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Use(s) Minimum Number of Required Spaces
Manufactured Home Park20 2 per dwelling unit, plus 1 per owner/operator
Public/Civic/Recreational Uses
Campground 2 per campsite
Club 1 per every 5 members
Community Center 1 per 500 sq. ft. of floor area, plus 1 per employee on largest
shift
Education Facility, College, University, Business or
Trade
1 per employee on largest shift, plus 1 per 10 full-time
students
Education Facility, Primary/Secondary 1 per each employee on largest shift, plus 1 for each 4 seats
in the largest assembly room
Park 1 per 4 visitors at peak service
Public Use 1 per 200 sq. ft. of gross floor area
Recreational Facility, Private;
Recreational Facility, Public 1 per 5 members, based on the design capacity of the facility
Religious Assembly21
1 per 4 fixed seats in main assembly area, or
10 per 500 sq. ft. of assembly floor space without fixed
seating
Commercial Uses
Brewery or Distillery;
Micro- Brewery, Distillery, or Winery
1 per 150 sq. ft. of food beverage preparation and
consumption area, plus 1 per 800 sq. ft. of operations
Personal Services 1 per 500 sq. ft. of floor area
Car Wash;
Gas Station;
Vehicle Service/Repair
3 per bay, stall, rack, or pit, plus 1 per gasoline pump;
minimum 5 spaces
Construction Material Sales;
Manufactured Home Sales 1 per 500 sq. ft.
Day Care Center
1 per employee on largest shift, plus 1 per 10 children; plus
an unobstructed pick-up space with a stacking area for 8
vehicles
Equipment Sales, Rental, and Repair (Heavy) 1 per 1,500 sq. ft. of display area, plus 3 per bay/stall
Event Venue 10 per 1,000 sq. ft. of floor
Funeral Home22 1 per 100 sq. ft. of main assembly area; 30 spaces minimum
20 Editor’s Note: Requirement per dwelling unit retained from Section 35-82 of the current Ordinance, with the
addition of 1 space per owner/operator.
21 Editor’s Note: Included differentiation of requirements for fixed seating and non-fixed seating. The requirement
used here for fixed seating was retained from Section 35-82 of the current Ordinance.
22 Editor’s Note: Streamlined existing parking requirement to not be based on chapel or parlor seating, as many
services are standing services.
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Use(s) Minimum Number of Required Spaces
Hospital23 1 per patient bed
Hotel/Motel24 1.5 per bedroom or unit, plus required parking for any
additional uses on site (restaurant, event venue, etc.)
Kennel, Commercial;
Veterinary Hospital25 1 per 400 sq. ft. of floor area
Marina 1 per 150 sq. ft. of floor space, plus 1 per 2 boat slips
Office, General 1 per 400 sq. ft. of floor area
Offices, Medical/Clinic26 1 per 200 sq. ft. of floor area; 10 spaces minimum for a clinic
Recreation/Entertainment, Indoor 1 per 3 persons based on maximum occupancy, plus 1 per
employee on largest shift
Recreation/Entertainment, Outdoor
If a facility with fixed seating:
1 per 3 seats, plus 1 per employee on maximum working shift
If a facility without fixed seating:
1 space per 300 sq. ft. of floor area of enclosed buildings, plus
1 space for every 3 persons that the outdoor facilities are
designed to accommodate when used to the maximum
capacity
Restaurant, General 1 per 150 sq. ft. of floor space, including outside seating
Store, All Types 1 per 250 sq. ft. of floor area
Tradesperson Service;
Catering Services 2, plus 1 per employee on maximum working shift
Industrial Uses
Junkyard/Salvage Yard;
Construction Yard 1 per employee on maximum working shift
Manufacturing, Heavy;
Manufacturing, Light;
Laboratory, Research, and Development
1 per employee on maximum working shift
Manufacturing, Small-Scale 1 per employee on maximum working shift
Warehousing and Distribution;
Data Centers 5, plus 1 per employee on maximum working shift
Miscellaneous Uses
Mixed Use structure 1 per 250 sq. ft. of sales floor area, plus 1 space per dwelling
unit
23 Editor’s Note: Reduced parking to not include a standard based on employees, as hospital employee numbers can
fluctuate with temporary staff. Additionally, all patients will likely not have their own vehicle parked and/or a visitor –
at the same time as all other patients – thus, designated spaces may remain empty majority of the time.
24 Editor’s Note: Existing requirement amended in order to ensure that adequate parking is available for accessory
uses.
25 Editor’s Note: Proposed new requirement to be based on total floor area.
26 Editor’s Note: Existing requirement amended to include a 10 space minimum for a clinic.
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Section 8-5-9. Recreational Vehicle and Boat Parking.27
(A) Occupied Lots. On lots with a principal structure, no more than two recreational vehicles, boats,
trailers, or combination thereof may be parked externally.
(B) Vacant Lots. On lots without a principal structure:
(1) The parking of recreational vehicles, boats, and/or trailers on vacant lots is prohibited.
(C) Location on Lots. All parked recreational vehicles and boats must meet the minimum side and rear
setbacks required for an accessory structure and the front setback of the district in which it is
placed.
(D) Exceptions. These standards shall not apply to Recreational Vehicle Storage or Outdoor Storage as
defined in Article X, Definitions, where permitted in Article VI, Use Matrix, and in compliance with
this Ordinance.
Section 8-5-10. Off-Street Loading Design Standards.
(A) Minimum Size.28 For the purpose of the regulations of this Division, a loading space is a space within
the main building or on the same lot providing for the standing, loading, or unloading of trucks, and
having a minimum width of 12ft., a minimum length of 50 ft., and a vertical clearance of at least 14
ft.
(B) Location. All required off-street loading areas shall be located on the same lot as the building which
they are intended to serve, or on an adjacent lot when shared with the use occupying an adjacent
lot
(1) No part of a yard, open space, area, or off-street parking or loading space required by this
Ordinance for any use shall be included as a yard, open space, area, or off-street parking or
loading space similarly required for any other use.29
(C) Surfacing. All loading areas shall have an improved surface to prevent soil erosion, abate dust, and
provide an adequate driving surface.
(D) Screening. Whenever an off-street loading area is located in or adjacent to a residential district, it
shall be effectively screened in accordance with Division 3, Landscaping and Screening, of this
Article. However, areas requiring natural air circulation, unobstructed view, or other technical
considerations necessary for proper operation, may submit a screening plan to be approved by the
Administrator.
(E) Entrances and Exits.30 Location and design of entrances and exits shall be in accordance with VDOT
traffic safety and design standards.
27 Editor’s Note: New Section to address parking requirements for recreational vehicles and boats. These standards
can be amended, and additional standards added, if desired by the County.
28 Editor’s Note: Dimensions retained from Section 35-85 of the existing Ordinance.
29 Editor’s Note: Text is from Section 35-19 of the existing Ordinance and has been amended for clarity.
30 Editor’s Note: This statement conveys the same principle as Section 35-85 (2) of the existing Ordinance and has
been amended for clarity.
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(1) Where the entrance or exit of a building is designed for truck loading and unloading, such
entrance or exit shall be designed to provide at least 1 off-street loading space.
(2) Where an off-street loading space is to be approached directly from a major thoroughfare,
necessary maneuvering space shall be provided on the lot without impeding the public-right-
of-way or any parking space or parking lot aisle.
(F) Bus and Truck Terminals.31 Terminals shall provide sufficient space to accommodate the maximum
number of buses and trucks to be stored or loaded at the terminal at any one time.
Section 8-5-11. Off-Street Loading Requirements.
(A) Off-street loading shall be provided at the time of the erection of any building or structure or at
the time any building or structure is altered, enlarged, or increased in capacity by adding dwelling
units, guest rooms, floor area, or seats, or a change of use, not less than the amount of loading
space required by this Division.
(B) Space allocated for any off-street loading use shall not be used to satisfy the space requirements
for any off-street parking area or portion thereof.
(C) Except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance, when any building or structure is hereafter
erected, or structurally altered to the extent of increasing the floor area by 25% or more, or any
building is hereafter converted, for the uses and floor areas listed below, accessory off-street
loading spaces shall be provided as required in Table VIII-6, Minimum Off-Street Loading
Requirements32 below.
(D) The loading space requirements in this Division do not limit other loading requirements contained
in the district or use standards of this Ordinance.
(E) The loading space requirements in this Division do not limit additional requirements that may be
imposed in connection with uses permitted by approval of a Special Use Permit.
Table VIII-5. Minimum Off-Street Loading Requirements.33
31 Editor’s Note: Retained from Section 35-85 (5) of the existing Ordinance.
32 Editor’s Note: Section 35-85 of the existing Ordinance provides off-street loading requirements for hospitals, hotels,
commercial, or industrial buildings with either more or less than 10,000 sq. ft. of floor area.
33 Editor’s Note: This table introduces detailed minimums for additional uses, based on floor area, that typically utilize
loading spaces.
Use(s) Floor Area (in sq. ft.) Loading Space(s) Required
Commercial and Industrial Uses
(except those listed below)
0-2,999 0
3,000-10,000 1
10,001-100,000 1 space, plus 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
each 40,000 over 100,000 1 additional for each
Dwelling, Multi-family;
Funeral Home; Hotel; Office;
Hospital or similar institutions
0-2,999 0
3,000-10,000 1
10,001-100,000 2
100,001-200,000 3
each 100,000 over 200,000 1 additional for each
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Division 6. Signs.
Section 8-6-1. Purpose and Intent.34
(A) The purpose of these sign regulations is to define, permit, and control the size, material, location,
and condition of signs in a manner that, as its first priority, protects those who travel in and through
the County. These sign regulations are intended to achieve the following community goals and
objectives:
(1) Protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public;
(2) Equitably distribute the privilege of using the public environs to communicate private
information;
(3) Safeguard the public use and nature of the streets and sidewalks;
(4) Protect and enhance the visual environment of the County;
(5) Discourage the diminishing of property values in the County;
(6) Minimize visual distractions to motorists using the public streets;
(7) Promote the economic growth of the County by creating a community image that is conducive
to attracting new business and industrial development;
(8) Permit reasonable effectiveness of signs and to prevent their over-concentration, improper
placement and excessive height, bulk, density, and area;
(9) Promote the safety of persons and property by requiring that signs not create a hazard due to
collapse, fire, decay, or abandonment;
(10) Ensure that signs do not obstruct fire-fighting efforts or create traffic hazards by confusing or
distracting motorists or by impairing drivers' ability to see pedestrians, obstacles, other
vehicles, or traffic signs;
(11) Provide more open space and curb the deterioration of the natural environment;
(12) Promote commerce and trade, with recognition of the effects of signage on the character of
the community; and
(13) The Board of Supervisors finds that the regulations in this Division advance the significant
government interests identified herein and are the minimum amount of regulation necessary
to achieve those interests.
Section 8-6-2. Administration.
(A) Interpretation.
34 Editor’s Note: Text in this Section has been adapted from Section 35-95 of the existing Ordinance and modified and
reorganized for clarity. New text has been added throughout to fully explain the purpose and intent of signage
regulations.
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(1) The regulations of this Division shall apply to all new signs, replacement signs, and their
modification(s) established after the effective date of this Ordinance.
(2) Signs not expressly permitted are prohibited.
(3) Murals as defined in Article X, Definitions, of this Ordinance are not considered signs and shall
be exempt from the provisions of this Division.
(4) Signs containing noncommercial speech are permitted anywhere that advertising or
commercial signs are permitted, subject to the same regulations of such signs.
(5) This Division shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with the First Amendment guarantee
of free speech.
(B) Application and Permit.
(1) Sign Permit Required.35
(i) No sign shall be erected, installed, altered, modified, refaced, re-hung, or replaced, without
obtaining a permit pursuant to this Division, except as otherwise provided in Section 8-7-
3, below.
(ii) No permit shall be issued by the Administrator except upon a determination that a
proposed sign is in conformity with the requirements of this Division and, where applicable,
in conformity with the requirements of an approved Site Development Plan for the
property upon which the sign is to be placed.
(iii) More than one sign on one building or group of buildings located on the same parcel of
land may be included on one application provided that all such signs are applied for at one
time.
(iv) After the issuance of an approved sign permit, the applicant may install and display the
approved sign(s). Once installed, the Administrator may inspect the sign(s) for
conformance with the approved sign permit and this Ordinance.
(2) Application. An application for a sign permit shall:36
(i) Specify the type of sign to be constructed and the zoning district in which this sign is to be
located;
(ii) Be accompanied with plans including a survey of the property, including measurements of
the lot frontage;
(iii) Indicate the square footage and location of all existing signs on the property;
(iv) The area, size, structure, design, location, lighting, and materials for the sign; and
35 Editor’s Note: Section 35-100 of the existing Ordinance requires that all off-site advertising signs, all signs exceeding
the maximum requirements, and signs not specifically stated to be exempt to obtain a Sign Permit. Proposed to
separate exemptions into a new section and clarify permit requirements to apply content neutrality and to establish
clear guidelines for an applicant.
36 Editor’s Note: The current Ordinance does not establish application procedures for a sign permit.
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(v) Contain written consent of the owner or lessee of the land or building upon which the sign
is to be erected, if not owned by the applicant.
(3) Duration and Revocation of Permit.
(i) Any sign permit shall be null and void if any sign for which the permit was issued is not
installed in accordance with the permit within 6 months of the date of approval.
(ii) A sign permit shall become null and void if the use to which it pertains is not commenced
within 6 months after the date the sign permit is issued.
(a) Upon written request and for good cause shown, the Administrator may grant one 6-
month extension.
(iii) Whenever the use of a building or land is discontinued by the specific business, the sign
permit shall expire and all signs pertaining to that business shall be removed by the
property owner within 30 calendar days of the discontinuance.
(iv) The Administrator shall revoke a sign permit if the sign does not comply with applicable
regulations of this Division, building code, or other applicable law, regulation, or
Ordinance.
Section 8-6-3. Exemptions.37
(A) The following signs are exempt from the provisions of this Division and may be erected or
constructed without a permit but shall be in accordance with the structural and safety
requirements of the Pittsylvania County Building Code.
(1) Governmental Body or Required by Law. Signs erected by a governmental body or required by
law, including official traffic signs or sign structures and provisional warning signs or sign
structures, and temporary signs indicating danger.
(2) Message Content. The changing of message content, including message content on a
changeable message sign if permitted in the district.
(3) Portable Signs. One portable sign per street frontage/business, not to exceed 6 sq. ft. in area.
(a) Portable signs shall in no way obstruct vehicular travel, public parking, and/or
pedestrian movement along sidewalks and are removed when the establishment is
closed for business.
(4) Minor Signs. Two minor signs per street frontage, each minor sign not to exceed 3 sq. ft. in
area.
(i) A minor sign is any wall or freestanding sign not exceeding 3 sq. ft. in area, not exceeding
4 ft. in height, and not illuminated. Examples include no trespassing signs, displays of
37 Editor’s Note: Sections 35-97 and 35-98 of the existing Ordinance include exemptions; however, most of these
exemptions are not content neutral in nature. Any exemptions that are based on sign content have been removed;
any exemptions that are not based on content have been retained.
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building address, security warning signs, parking signs, entrance/exit signs, and on-site
directional signs.
(5) Temporary Signs.38
(i) Temporary signs for events/non-recurring activities erected for not more than 60
consecutive days, and for property under construction or renovation, for sale, or for rent.
(a) No more than 4 temporary signs shall be placed on a single lot.
(b) The total aggregate sign area of all temporary signs on a single lot shall not exceed 32
sq. ft.
(6) Recreation/Sports Facility Fence Signs. Signs affixed to the interior of a permanent fence of a
recreational or sports facility.
(7) Memorial Plaques and Building Cornerstones.39 Memorial plaques and building cornerstones
not exceeding 6 sq. ft. in area and cut or carved into a masonry surface or other
noncombustible material and made an integral part of the building or structure.
(8) Flag Signs. Flag signs up to 16 sq. ft. in size or up to 50 sq. ft. in commercial and industrial
districts, and up to 3 per parcel, provided that the minimum setback for a flagpole is the longest
dimension of the pole, in order to prevent the flag or pole falling into the property of another
or into a public street, trail, or sidewalk.
(9) Window Signs. Window signs, provided that no more than 20% of the window is covered.
(10) Residential Entrance Signs. Signs at the main entrance or entrances to a subdivision or planned
unit development project provided that such sign shall not exceed one hundred (100) square
feet, shall not be illuminated, shall be so designated as to be in the public interest and shall
make no reference to the sale or lease of the lots or houses located within said identified
subdivision.
Section 8-6-4. Prohibited.40
(A) The following types of signs are prohibited in all zoning districts, unless otherwise specifically
permitted in this Ordinance:
(1) Any sign affixed to, hung, placed, or painted on any cliff, rock, tree, or other natural feature;
public utility pole or structure supporting wire, cable, or pipe; or radio, television, or similar
tower;
38 Editor’s Note: Several different types of temporary signs (i.e., yard signs, political signs, for sale signs, construction
signs) are combined and regulated together as a best practice to ensure content neutrality. Propose to add a total
aggregate square footage cap for temporary signs to allow flexibility in individual sign size while preventing sign
clutter.
39 Editor’s Note: The Ordinance does not include materiality requirements or area maximums for memorial plaques
or tables; this is proposed as a new requirement.
40 Editor’s Note: The existing Ordinance does not address prohibited sign types; new language proposed for addition.
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(i) This prohibition shall not affect official traffic, parking, or informational signs placed on
utility poles by the County.
(2) Any sign or banner within or across a public right-of-way, unless specifically approved by VDOT
and the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors;
(3) Any sign that, due to its size, illumination, location, or height, obstructs the vision of motorists
or pedestrians at any intersection, or similarly obstructs the vision of motorists entering a
public right-of-way from private property;
(4) Signs simulating, or which are likely to be confused with, a traffic control sign or any other sign
displayed by a public authority. Any such sign is subject to immediate removal and disposal by
an authorized County official as a nuisance;
(5) Signs which obstruct any window or door opening used as a means of egress, prevents free
passage from one part of a roof to any other part thereof, or interferes with an opening
required for ventilation;
(6) Signs attached, painted, or mounted to unlicensed, inoperative, or generally stationary vehicles
and/or trailers. Vehicles and/or trailers shall not be used primarily as static displays, advertising
a business, product, or service, nor utilized as storage, shelter, or distribution points for
commercial products or services for the general public;
(7) Signs extending above the roofline of a structure, building, or parapet wall;
(8) Any flashing sign or signs with intermittent lights or lights of changing degrees of intensity or
color, except those officially erected for safety purposes;
(i) This prohibition shall not apply to electronic or digital displays that display messages in
intervals of at least 10 seconds.
(9) Any strings of lights, either outlining any part of a building or affixed to any ornamental feature
thereof, except for seasonal holiday displays which are limited to 45 days.
(10) Any sign of which all or any part is in motion by any means, including fluttering, rotating or
other means of movement.
(11) Signs that emit sound, smoke, flame, scent, mist, aerosol, liquid, or gas;
(12) Signs that violate any provision of any Federal or State law relative to outdoor advertising;
(13) Any sign representing or depicting specified sexual activities or specified anatomical areas or
sexually oriented goods; and
(14) Any signs greater in size, quantity, or window coverage than provided for in Section 8-6-5,
below.
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Section 8-6-5. Measurement and General Sign Standards.41
(A) General Requirements.
(1) All signs shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Pittsylvania County Building
Code, the Code of Virginia, and any regulations promulgated by the Virginia Department of
Transportation pursuant thereto. In the event of conflicting laws or regulations, the most
restrictive shall govern.
(B) Sign Area Calculation.
(1) The sign area permitted under this
Division is determined by
measuring the entire face of the
sign, including any background
incidental to its decoration, but
excluding support elements for
the sole purpose of supporting the
sign.
(2) The sign area shall be calculated
using the smallest rectangle,
circle, or triangle that can enclose
the sign face.
(i) Rectangle formula: sign area =
length (L) x width (W)
(ii) Circle formula: sign area = πr²
(iii) Triangle formula: sign area =
1/2 × base (B) × height (H)
(3) The surface area of any sign made
up only of individual letters or
figures shall include the space
between such letters or figures.
(4) Whenever one sign contains information on both sides, sign area shall be calculated based on
the largest sign face. Faces are not totaled.42
(C) Sign Height.43
41 Editor’s Note: This Section is proposed to replace Section 35-96 of the existing Ordinance. Existing text has been
integrated and reorganized with some new requirements.
42 Editor’s Note: Section 35-96 of the current Ordinance states that only one side of a V-type or double-faced sign
shall be considered in area calculations; proposed to base sign calculations on the largest sign face.
43 Editor’s Note: Section 35-96 of the current Ordinance states that the maximum height for signs is tied to maximum
building height for structures in the underlying zoning district; proposed to have clear and separate maximum height
for signs to protect safety and aesthetics.
Figure VIII-2. Sign Area Measurement
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(1) The maximum height for signs shall be as provided in Table VIII-7, provided in Section 8-7-6,
below.
(2) The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from the base of the sign at average
grade to the top of the highest attached component of the sign.
(D) Sign Setbacks.44
(1) Signs less than 10 ft. in height: minimum of 5 ft. from the street right-of-way.
(2) Signs 10 ft. or greater in height: minimum of 15 ft. from the street right-of-way.
(E) Illumination.45
(1) All permitted signs may be internally or externally lit.
(2) No sign shall be illuminated in such a way that light may shine into on-coming traffic, affect
highway safety, or shine directly into a residential dwelling.
(3) Any electrical sign shall display the required UL, ETL, CSA, or ULC label.
(4) Illumination shall be no greater than 700 nits46 from sunrise to sunset, or 500 nits from sunset
to sunrise and be equipped with automatic brightness control which can dim the display
brightness when ambient conditions exist.
(5) Electronic service lines shall be underground.
Section 8-6-6. Special Sign Standards.
(A) Off-Site Signs. All off-site signs shall comply with the following:47
(1) Off-site signs shall be permitted, only if provided with written permission is provided by the
owner of property where the off-site sign is to be located as part of the sign permit application.
(2) Off-site signs shall only be permitted in commercial and industrial districts.
(3) All off-site signs shall comply with the provisions of the underlying zoning district and all other
provisions of this Division, as applicable.
(4) Any off-site sign shall count towards the maximum sign limit for that lot which the sign is
located on.
44 Editor’s Note: Section 35-96 of the current Ordinance states that front yard setbacks shall not apply to signs apart
from off-site outdoor advertising signs, and that side yard setbacks for signs shall be the same as those of the
underlying zoning district. Propose to apply uniform front setbacks to all signs based on size.
45 Editor’s Note: Section 35-96 of the current Ordinance states that signs in all conservation, agricultural, and
residential districts shall only be illuminated indirectly; proposed to remove due to vague language.
46 Editor’s Note: The United States Sign Council’s Best Practice Recommendations & Standards for On-Premise Sign
Lighting provides that for LED lighting, 10,000 nits is a common maximum reached, with a recommendation that
standards provide a maximum of 700 nits prior to sunset.
47 Editor’s Note: Section 8-7-6(A)(2) is a requirement included in Section 35-99 of the current Ordinance; all other
provisions of this Section are proposed as new additions.
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(5) Any off-site sign may only be placed on property adjacent to the property for which the sign is
for.
(6) A maximum of 1 off-site sign is permitted per establishment.
(7) All off-site signs shall meet VDOT standards.
(8) The Administrator may waive or modify these standards if a hardship or other necessary
circumstance warrants.
(9) Off-site sign permissions do not run with land. Pittsylvania County bears no responsibility for
any off-site sign that is located on property that is sold, of which the new property owner does
not give their permission for the off-site sign. In this scenario, the off-site sign shall be removed
at the cost and burden of the owner of the sign.
(B) Changeable Signs. Within any commercial or industrial district, 1 changeable sign per lot shall be
permitted, subject to the following requirements:
(1) The changeable sign may be an existing or proposed freestanding, wall, or projected sign.
(2) The message shall not be changed more than once every 10 seconds, move, flash, or display
animation, as prohibited in this article.
(3) Any changeable message sign that malfunctions, fails, or ceases to operate in its usual or
normal programmed manner, thereby causing motion, movement, flashing or any other similar
effects, shall be repaired, covered, or disconnected by the owner or operator of such sign
within 24 hours of Notice of Violation.
(C) Projecting Signs.
(1) Signs projecting over public walkways, including doors and entryways, shall be a minimum
height of 8 ft. from average grade to the bottom of the sign.
(2) Projecting signs shall not extend more than 4 ft. beyond the face of the building or greater than
2 ft. from the curb line towards the building the sign is attached to.
(3) Signs, architectural projections, or sign structures projecting over vehicular access areas shall
have a minimum vertical clearance of 14 ft.
(D) Temporary Signs.48
(1) Each temporary sign shall be maintained in good, safe condition, securely affixed to a building
or the ground.
(2) Any temporary sign pertaining to an event must be removed within 30 days after the event.49
(3) No temporary sign shall be illuminated.
48 Editor’s Note: Proposed to eliminate non-content neutral language for temporary signs and include basic standards
under Special Sign Standards.
49 Editor’s Note: The current Ordinance allows temporary signs to remain for up to 60 days after the conclusion of an
event; propose to reduce allowable time to 30 days.
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Section 8-6-7. Permitted Signs by District50
(A) The following standards, shown in Table VIII-7, Maximum Sign Dimensions, show the maximum
sign dimensions, per type of sign, permitted in each district for all by-right and Special Use Permit
uses, subject to all other requirements of this Ordinance.51 52
(1) Signs requiring a sign permit within the RPD Residential Planned Development district will be
determined as part of the rezoning process.
(B) Sign area square footage limits are provided per sign, unless specified as a total.
(1) Total area is calculated as an aggregate of all signs of that type.
(i) Signs exempted under Section 8-6-3 of this Division are permitted and not included in the
aggregate total area.
(C) See Article X, Definitions, of this Ordinance, for the definitions of the sign types provided in the
Tables of this Division.
(D) For the purposes of Table VIII-7, the Residential Uses shall be those under the Residential category
in Table VI-1, Use Matrix, and Non-Residential Uses shall be those under the Agriculture,
Public/Civic/Recreation, Commercial, Industrial, and Miscellaneous category of Table VI-1, Use
Matrix.
50 Editor’s Note: All standards in Tables VIII-7 for agricultural, conservation, and residential districts are new additions
and can be further amended by the County as desired.
51 Editor’s Note: Propose to introduce maximum height requirements for signs in commercial and industrial districts
and reduce the number of total freestanding signs allowed per lot to 1.
52 Editor’s Note: Propose to introduce a total aggregate sign cap of 300 sq. ft. per lot in commercial and industrial to
prevent sign clutter.
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Table VIII-6. Maximum Sign Standards
Agricultural and Conservation Districts
Sign Type
Residential Uses Non-Residential Uses
Number Area
(square feet)
Height
(feet) Number Area
(square feet)
Height
(feet)
Freestanding
1 per street
frontage; 2
permitted if for
subdivision entrance
16 3 2 per street
frontage 32 6
Wall 1 per street frontage 16 N/A 2 per street
frontage 16 N/A
Residential Districts
Sign Type
Residential Uses Non-Residential Uses
Number Area
(square feet) Height
(feet) Number Area
(square feet)
Height
(feet)
Freestanding
1 per street frontage;
2 permitted if for
subdivision entrance
6 3 1 per street
frontage 32 3
Wall 1 per street frontage 12 N/A 1 per street
frontage 16 N/A
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Commercial Districts*
Sign Type Number
Area
(square feet)
LF = Linear Foot
Height
(in feet)
Freestanding
(1 business)
1 per street
frontage 32 8
Freestanding
(2+ businesses with
coordinated access point(s))
1 per street
frontage, per
access point
1501 20
Projecting 1 per street
frontage 12 N/A
Wall Unlimited 1.5 sq. ft. for every 1 LF of building face
occupied by the tenant; 200 sq. ft. maximum N/A
Canopy 1 per street
frontage
0.5 sq. ft. of canopy fascia on which the sign is
mounted N/A
Industrial Districts*
Sign Type Number
Area
(square feet)
LF = Linear Foot
Height
(in feet)
Freestanding
(1 business)
1 per street
frontage 75 10
Freestanding
(2+ businesses with
coordinated access point(s))
1 per street
frontage, per
access point
1501 20
Projecting 1 per street
frontage 12 N/A
Wall Unlimited 1.5 sq. ft. for every 1 LF of building face
occupied by the tenant; 200 sq. ft. maximum N/A
Canopy 1 per street
frontage
0.5 sq. ft. of canopy fascia on which the sign is
mounted N/A
1Provided that any 2 signs on the same public street are at least 75 ft. apart.
* The total aggregate sign area on a single lot shall not exceed 300 sq. ft.
Section 8-6-8. Nonconforming Signs.
(A) Nonconforming Signs.
(1) Any sign legally existing at the time of the effective date of this Ordinance that does not
conform in use, location, height, or size with the regulations of the district in which such sign
is located, shall be considered legally nonconforming and shall be permitted to continue in
such status until such time as it is either abandoned or removed by its owner, subject to the
following limitations53:
(i) A nonconforming sign shall not be enlarged, nor shall any feature of a nonconforming sign,
such as illumination, be increased.
53 Editor’s Note: Text from Section 35-101(C) of the existing Ordinance has been integrated.
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(ii) A nonconforming sign shall not be moved for any distance on the same lot or to any other
lot unless:
(a) Such change in location will make the sign meet all current requirements of this
Division; or
(b) Such change in location is to conform to required setbacks of this Ordinance.
(iii) A nonconforming sign that is destroyed or damaged by any casualty to an extent not
exceeding 50% of its sign area, may be restored within 2 years after such destruction or
damage but shall not be enlarged in any manner.
(2) If such a sign is destroyed or damaged to an extent exceeding 50%, it shall not be reconstructed
but may be replaced with a sign that meets all current requirements of this Division.
(3) Notwithstanding any contrary provision in this Ordinance, no nonconforming sign is required
to be removed solely by the passage of time.
Section 8-6-9. Maintenance and Enforcement.
(A) Maintenance, Repair, and Removal
(1) Every sign permitted by this Division shall be maintained in good condition and repair.
(2) If a sign is in violation of the provisions of this Ordinance, the owner shall correct such violations
and make the sign conform with the provisions of this Division, within 10 days of a Notice of
Violation from the Administrator. Signs in violation may include:
(i) Any that becomes insecure, in danger of falling, or is otherwise deemed unsafe by the
Administrator; or
(ii) Any sign that is unlawfully installed, erected, or maintained in violation of any of the
provisions of this Ordinance.
(3) If within 10 days the Notice of Violation is not complied with, the Administrator shall be
permitted to remove or cause such sign to be removed at the expense of the owner of the sign.
(4) If a sign presents an imminent and immediate threat to life or property, then the Administrator
may abate, raze, or remove it, and may bring an action against the responsible party to recover
the necessary costs incurred for abating, razing, or removing the sign54.
(B) Removal of Abandoned Signs.
(1) A sign shall be removed by the owner or lessee55 of the premises upon which the sign is located
when the business which it advertises is no longer conducted on the premises.
(2) If the owner or lessee fails to remove such sign, the Administrator shall give the owner 30 days’
written notice to remove it.
54 Editor’s Note: Adapted from Section 35-101(A) of the existing Ordinance.
55 Editor’s Note: Section 35-101(B) of the existing Ordinance specifies this must be done at the owner’s expense, but
language to include the lessee has been added as it is often more appropriate in residential or commercial settings.
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(3) Upon failure to comply with this notice, the Administrator may remove the sign at cost to the
property owner56.
Division 7. Open Space.57
Section 8-7-1. Purpose and Intent.
(A) The standards in this Division are intended to ensure that a minimum amount of required open
space is provided in new development for the use and enjoyment of the development’s residents,
employees, and users in a manner that:
(1) Preserves the County’s natural resources;
(2) Provides open areas for use as active and passive recreation;
(3) Reduces the heat island effect of developed areas;
(4) Provides civic and meeting spaces for use by the public;
(5) Preserves trees and strands of older growth;
(6) Enhances stormwater management; and
(7) Provides other public health benefits.
Section 8-7-2. Applicability.
(A) General. All new development within the MHP Manufactured Home Park District, the RMF
Residential Multi-Family District, and the RPD Residential Planned Development District must
comply with the standards in this Division.
(B) Timing of Review. Review for compliance with the standards of this Division will occur during review
of an application for a residential planned development, Zoning Permit, Special Use Permit,
Building Permit, Certificate of Occupancy, Site Development Plan, or Subdivision Plat, as
appropriate.
(C) Open Space Plan Required. All development applications subject to review for compliance with the
standards of this Division must include an Open Space Plan, which shall designate all open-space
areas, including the amount of each type of open space provided, and the relation of each open
space area to the constructed areas of the site, including all buildings and circulation systems.
Section 8-7-3. Amount of Open Space Required.
(A) Development subject to these standards must provide open space in an amount that meets or
exceeds the minimum provided in Table VIII-10, Minimum Required Open Space, based on the
district where the development is proposed.
56 Editor’s Note: Text is adapted from 35-101(B) of the existing Ordinance.
57 Editor’s Note: This Division is new and includes Sections pertaining to what counts and does not count as open
space, general design standards; and ownership and maintenance of open space.
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Table VIII-10. Minimum Required Open Space.58
District Standard Development
MHP
30%
Includes requirement of 10% of the total park area required to be
dedicated to recreational use. See Section 4-5-3 of this Ordinance.
RMF
25%;
of that 25%, a minimum of 5,000 sq. ft per 2 acres shall be for
active or passive recreation
RPD 30%
See Section 4-8-1 of this Ordinance.
Section 8-7-4. Areas Counted as Open Space.
(A) The features and areas identified below shall count toward required open space as required by this
Division.
(1) Natural Features.
(i) Description. Naturally sensitive areas, such as floodplains, wetlands, and steep slopes,
native mixed forests, streams, ponds, rivers, existing and healthy wooded areas, and
natural vegetation.
(ii) Limitation.
(a) 50% of the required open space in all districts shall be comprised of natural features.
(2) Passive Recreation Areas.
(i) Description. Planned and regularly maintained open areas that provide passive recreation
opportunities, including arranged plantings, gardens, community gardens, picnic shelters,
gazebos, and similar structures.
(ii) Design Requirements. Passive recreation areas must have at least 1 direct access to a
building or to a street or walkway accessible to the development’s residents and users.
(3) Active Recreation Areas.
(i) Description. Land occupied by areas and facilities used for active recreational purposes,
such as ballfields, playgrounds, tennis courts, pools, jogging trails, and community
buildings and clubhouses.
(ii) Design Requirements. Land must be compact and contiguous unless used to link or
continue an existing or planned open space resource. Areas must have at least 1 direct
58 Editor’s Note: Open space requirements are new additions. These minimum percentages can be further amended,
if desired. Propose to remove the current 10% minimum open space requirement for B-1, B-2, M-1, and M-2 districts.
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access to a building or to a street or walkway accessible to the public or the development’s
residents and users.
(4) Required Landscaping and Buffers.
(i) Description. All areas occupied by required landscape areas and transitional buffers, except
for parking lot landscaping.
(ii) Design Requirements. As provided in Division 3, Landscaping and Screening, of this Article.
(5) Stormwater Management Areas/Facilities Treated as Site Amenities.
(i) Description. Stormwater management features that are incorporated into a site amenity
(e.g., with low fencing, vegetative landscaping, gentle slopes, fountain or other visible
water circulation device, and pedestrian access or seating).
(ii) Limitation. A maximum of 75% of the land area occupied by stormwater management
facilities (including retention and detention ponds and other bioretention devices) may be
included as open space.
(iii) Design Requirements. To qualify, stormwater management facilities must support passive
recreation uses by providing access, pedestrian elements such as paths and benches,
gentle slopes (less than 3:1), and vegetative landscaping.
(6) Public Access Easements.
(i) Description. Public access easements that include paths or trails that are available for
activities such as walking, hiking, running, and/or biking.
(ii) Design Requirements. Such access easements must include at least 1 improved access
from a public street, sidewalk, or trail that includes signage designating the access point.
Section 8-7-5. Areas Not Counted as Open Space.
(A) The following features and areas will not be counted as required open space for the purposes of
this Division:
(1) More than 50% of open space comprised of natural features, for residential and planned
development districts, as provided in Section 8-7-4 (A)(1), above.
(2) Yards on lots containing a single- or two-family dwelling, or manufactured home;
(3) Street rights-of-way, private access easements, or utility easements, including sidewalks
located within those rights-of-way or easements;
(4) Parking areas and driveways, including parking lot landscaping and walkways;
(5) Land covered by structures, unless designed for active or passive recreational uses;
(6) Designated outdoor storage areas and mechanical yards; and
(7) Stormwater management facilities not located and designed as a site amenity, as described in
Section 8-7-4 (A)(5), above.
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Section 8-7-6. Design and Development Standards.
(A) Location.
(1) Required open space must be readily accessible by residents and users of the development to
the maximum extent practicable.
(2) To the extent practicable, a portion of the open space should provide focal points for the
development through prominent placement or direct visibility from streets.
(B) Configuration.
(1) Required open space must be compact with a minimum of 40% of the required open space
contiguous, unless:
(i) A linear configuration is needed to continue an existing trail or accommodate preservation
of natural features; or
(ii) It can be demonstrated that a different configuration provides better access to usable
open space for intended users of the open space.
(2) If the development site is adjacent to existing or planned public trails, parks, or other public
open space area, the required open space must, to the maximum extent practicable, be located
to adjoin, extend, and enlarge the trail, park, or other public open space area.
(3) Pedestrian access to required open space must be provided from sidewalks or other pedestrian
ways within or adjacent to the development.
(C) Limitations.
(1) Development within required open space shall be appropriate to the purposes of the type of
required open space.
(2) All structures within required open space shall comply with setback and other dimensional
requirements of the district for which the development is located.
Section 8-7-7. Ownership and Maintenance.
(A) All required open space must include deed restrictions, covenants, or other legal instruments that
ensure continued use of the land for its intended open space purposes and provide for the
continued and effective management, operation, and maintenance of the land and facilities.
(1) Stormwater management facilities treated as site amenities must be maintained to provide for
the effective management of stormwater and as a passive recreation.
(B) Required open space must be maintained by the developer or owner of the project or by a property
owners’ association comprising owners of the property in the project.
(1) If property is conveyed to the property owners’ association, deed restrictions and covenants,
in form satisfactory to the County Attorney, must provide that any assessments, charges, or
costs of maintenance of required open space constitute a pro rata lien upon the individual
properties inferior in lien and dignity only to taxes and bona fide duly recorded first deeds of
trust on each property or lot.
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(C) Required open space may be dedicated to the County for public use only in a manner and form
approved by the County.
(D) Maintenance of natural features is limited to the minimum removal and avoidance of hazards,
nuisances, and unhealthy conditions, and the clearing of debris from trails.
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Editor’s Note: These definitions are included for review and to aid in understanding the concepts of the
Article being reviewed during this Worksession. They will be placed in Article X – Definitions following the
review of the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, and Board of Supervisors.
Definitions for Article VIII.1
Bare-root planting. Planting of perennial plants whose roots are not wrapped via balling and burlap,
and whose roots are exposed when planted.
Buffer, transitional. A strip of land, with plantings, designed to set apart and protect one space or
activity from an adjacent space or activity.
Caliper. A measure of tree size, determined by measuring the diameter of the tree at breast height.
Canopy (attached). An architectural projection or shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior
wall of a building and composed of a covering of rigid or non-rigid materials and/or fabric on a
supporting framework that may be either permanent or retractable.
Canopy (freestanding). A freestanding structure composed of a covering of rigid or non-rigid materials
and/or fabric on a supporting framework that may be either permanent or retractable.
Frontage, building. The length of an exterior building wall or structure of a single premise oriented to
the public way or other properties that it faces.
Fence. A barrier of man-made construction preventing movement across a boundary, including walls
that do not support a roof, but not retaining walls.
Fence, Ornamental. A fence other than a chain link or barbed wire fence intended to decorate,
accent, or frame a feature of the landscape. Ornamental fences are often used to identify a lot
corner, or frame a driveway, walkway, or planting bed.
Fleet vehicle. A vehicle that is owned or leased by a business, government agency, or other organization
rather than by an individual.
Footcandle. A measure of light falling on a surface. One footcandle equals the amount of light
generated by one candle shining on one square foot surface located 1 ft. away. Footcandle
measurements must be made with a photometric light meter.
Glare. The sensation produced by a bright light source within the visual field that is sufficiently brighter
than the level to which the eyes are adapted, which causes annoyance, discomfort, or loss in visual
performance. Disability glare is the effect of stray light in the eye where visibility and visual
performance are reduced.
Improved surface. A surface made of concrete, asphalt, bituminous pavement, brick or stone pavers,
or another hard, all-weather, dustless, permeable pavement system.
Interior aisle. A portion of a parking area which abuts, on one or more sides, parking spaces to which it
provides access, and which is not used for the parking of vehicles.
1 Editor’s Note: Unless otherwise noted, all definitions are new additions to the Zoning Ordinance.
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Kelvin light color temperature. A light bulb color temperature’s unit of absolute temperature, noted by
the symbol K. The higher the Kelvin rating, the whiter the light will be. The Kelvin scale is generally as
follows: 2700K (warm incandescent), 3000K (warm white halogen) and 3500K (household fluorescent).
Lamp. The component of a luminaire that produces light. A lamp is also commonly referred to as a bulb.
Lamp, mercury vapor. A gas discharge lamp that uses an electric arc through vaporized mercury to
produce light.
Landscaping. The finishing and adornment of unpaved yard areas. Materials and treatment include
naturally growing elements such as grass, trees, shrubs, and flowers. This treatment shall be permitted
also to include the use of logs, rocks, fountains, water features, and contouring of the earth.
Light emitting diode. A semiconductor light source that emits light when current flows through it. Also
referred to as an LED.
Lighting, decorative. Ambient or accent lighting intended to enhance the appearance of a use or
structure. The term does not include emergency or holiday decorative lighting.
Lighting, window. Rope-style lighting generally placed around the perimeter of window and/or door
openings.
Lumen. A standard unit of measurement of luminous flux.
Luminaire. A complete electric light unit.
Luminaire, full cut-off. An outdoor light fixture shielded in such a manner that all light emitted by
the fixture, either directly from the lamp or indirectly from the fixture, is projected down below
the fixture.
Luminaire, directionally shielded. An outdoor light fixture that contains visors, louvers, and other
types of shields or lenses designed to direct light onto a targeted area and to minimize stray light.
Luminaire, outdoor. A luminaire which is permanently installed outdoors including, but not limited
to, devices used to illuminate any site, structure, or sign, except that it does not include an
internally illuminated sign.
Luminance. A photometric measure of the luminous intensity per unit area of light travelling in a given
direction.
Loading space. A space within the main structure or on the same lot therewith, providing for the
standing, loading, or unloading of trucks and other vehicles.
Mural. An inscription, drawing, mark, or design that is etched, painted, or drawn directly upon the
exterior of any building or other structure and is visible from the public right-of-way.
Nit. A measurement of candelas per square meter (cd/m2) and used frequently to describe sign
luminance and to measure sign brightness.
Off-street parking. Space provided for vehicular parking outside the dedicated street right-of-way.
Open space. Land area not covered by buildings, roads, driveway and parking areas, or outdoor storage
areas, including, but not limited to, landscape areas, gardens, woodlands, walkways, courtyards or
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lawns, outdoor recreation areas, and those elements provided in Article VIII, Community Design
Standards, of this Ordinance.
Parking lot. An off-street, ground level area that is used to provide for the required parking spaces, and
associated aisles, as provided in Article VIII, Community Design Standards, of this Ordinance.
Parking space. A designated space designed to park a vehicle; such space being exclusive of necessary
drives, aisles, entrances and exits and being fully accessible for the parking or storage of permitted
vehicles.
Recreation, active. Recreation which requires physical alteration to the area in which they are
performed. This generally includes recreation or recreation areas such as playgrounds, ball courts, golf
courses, and swimming pools.
Recreation, passive. Recreation that involves existing natural resources and/or minimal development
and has a minimal impact. This generally includes walking, hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and
enjoyment of open areas such as parks.
Recreational vehicle and boat parking. A designated parking lot for recreational vehicles and boats that
are not currently being used; may be accessory to a residential use.
Retaining wall. A manmade barrier constructed for the purpose of stabilizing soil, retarding erosion, or
terracing a slope.
Screening. Landscaping, solid fencing, or masonry walls, or combination thereof, that physically and
visually shields uses or their appurtenances, such as dumpsters and mechanical equipment, from
adjacent property or uses.
Sign. Any object, device, display, or structure, or part thereof, visible from a public place, a public right-
of-way, any parking area, or right-of-way open to use by the general public, or any navigable body of
water that is designed and used to attract attention to an institution, organization, business, product,
service, event, or location by any means involving words, letters, figures, designs, symbols, fixtures,
logos, colors, illumination, or projected images.
Sign, abandoned. A sign structure that has ceased to be used, and the owner intends no longer to have
used, for the display of sign copy, or as otherwise defined by State law.
Sign, animated. A sign employing actual motion or the illusion of motion. Animated signs, which are
differentiated from changeable signs, as defined and regulated by this Ordinance, include the following
types:
• Electrically Activated. Animated signs producing the illusion of movement by means of
electronic, electrical, or electro-mechanical input and/or illumination capable of simulating
movement through employment of the characteristics of one or both of the classifications
noted below:
o Flashing. Animated signs or animated portions of signs whose illumination is
characterized by a repetitive cycle in which the period of illumination is either the same
as or less than the period of non-illumination. For the purposes of this Ordinance,
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flashing will not be defined as occurring if the cyclical period between on-off phases of
illumination exceeds ten seconds.
o Patterned Illusionary Movement. Animated signs or animated portions of signs whose
illumination is characterized by simulated movement through alternate or sequential
activation of various illuminated elements for the purpose of producing repetitive light
patterns designed to appear in some form of constant motion.
Sign area. The entire area enclosing the extreme limits of writing, representation, pictorial elements,
emblems, or a figure of similar character, together with all material, color, or lighting forming an
integral part of the display or used to differentiate the Sign from the background against which it is
placed.
Sign, awning. See “Sign, canopy.”
Sign, banner. A sign utilizing a banner or flexible substrate as its display surface for copy or graphics.
Sign, canopy. A sign displayed on or attached flat against the surface or surfaces of a canopy.
Illuminated canopies, if translucent, are considered part of the total canopy sign area.
Sign, changeable. A sign that includes any changing of the message either electronically or manually in
which the message is stationary and does not fluctuate in size or brightness.
Sign copy. Those letters, numerals, figures, symbols, logos, and graphic elements comprising the
content or message of a sign, exclusive of numerals identifying a street address only.
Sign, double-faced. A sign with two faces, back-to-back.
Sign, exterior. Any sign placed outside a building.
Sign face. The particular area of the sign structure upon which a message, copy, or advertisement is
displayed for viewing.
Sign, fascia. See "Wall Sign."
Sign, flag. Non-governmental flags are deemed to be signs and shall be subject to the provisions of this
Ordinance. The official flags of the federal, state, county, or municipal governments are not deemed to
be signs.
Sign, flashing. See "Sign, animated, electrically activated."
Sign, freestanding. A sign principally supported by a structure affixed to the ground, and not supported
by a building, including signs supported by one or more (structures) columns, poles, or braces placed
in or upon the ground.
Sign, height. The entire height of the structure from the ground to the top of the structure regardless
of wording or decorative nature.
Sign, illuminated. A sign characterized by the use of artificial light, either projecting through its
surface(s) (internally illuminated); or reflecting off its surface(s) (externally illuminated).
Sign, interior. Any sign placed within a building, but not including "signs, window" as defined by this
Ordinance. Interior signs, except for window signs as defined, are not regulated by this Ordinance.
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Sign maintenance. To prevent through preservation, repair, or restoration, the development of any
rust, corrosion, rot, chipping, peeling, or other deterioration in either the physical appearance or the
safety of every sign.
Sign, marquee. See “Sign, canopy.”
Sign, minor. A wall or freestanding sign not exceeding 3 sq. ft. in area, not exceeding 4 ft. in height, and
not illuminated. Examples include no trespassing signs, displays of building address, security warning
signs, parking signs, entrance/exit signs, and on-site directional signs.
Sign, monument. A “sign, freestanding” having the appearance of a solid, rectangular, or cylindrical
base.
Sign, multiple-faced. A sign containing 3 or more faces.
Sign, nonconforming. A sign lawfully existing as of the effective date of this Ordinance, and which do
not conform to the provisions of this Ordinance.
Sign, off-site. A sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service, activity, or
entertainment conducted, sold, or offered on a parcel of land other than the one on which the sign is
located.
Sign, on-site. A sign erected, maintained, or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the
display of messages appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of the property
on which it is displayed.
Sign, pennant. A sign made with flexible material, with or without lettering for design, usually
suspended from one or two corners, and manufactured and placed for the purpose of attracting
attention. Also referred to as a streamer.
Sign, pole. See “sign, freestanding.”
Sign, portable. Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or to a building or building surface.
For example, an A-frame sign.
Sign, projecting. A sign that is attached to, or projects from, a building face or wall, and whose faces
are not parallel to the building face or wall.
Sign, roof. A sign mounted on, and supported by, the main roof portion of a building, or above the
uppermost edge of a parapet wall of a building and which is wholly or partially supported by such a
building. Signs mounted on mansard facades, pent eaves, and architectural projections such as
canopies or marquees shall not be considered to be roof signs.
Sign structure. Any structure supporting a sign.
Sign, temporary. A sign designed or intended, based on materials and structural components, to be
displayed for a specified or limited period of time, regardless of type or style of sign. Examples include
real estate signs, yard sale signs, contractor’s signs, and special or one-time event signs per year.
Pittsylvania County Zoning Ordinance Update
August 10, 2023
Pertinent Definitions for Review – Worksession #6
Draft - Pertinent Definitions for Review | 6 of 6
Sign, vehicle. Any sign that is painted, mounted, adhered, magnetically attached, or otherwise
permanently affixed to or incorporated into a vehicle or trailer, except those unlicensed, inoperative,
or generally stationary vehicles and/or trailers.
Sign, wall. A sign that is in any manner affixed to any exterior wall of a building or structure and that
projects not more than 15 inches from the building or structure wall, including signs affixed to
architectural projections from a building provided the copy area of such signs remains on a parallel
plane to the face of the building or to the face or faces of the architectural projection to which it is
affixed and exteriors of windows.
Sign, window. A sign affixed to the interior surface of a window with its message intended to be visible
to and readable from the public way or from adjacent property. Signs affixed to the exterior of the
surface of a window are considered wall signs.
Stormwater management facility. A control measure that controls stormwater runoff and changes the
characteristics of that runoff including the quantity and quality, the period of release or the velocity of
flow.
Tree canopy or tree cover. All areas of coverage by plant material exceeding 5 ft. in height, and the
extent of planted tree canopy at 10- or 20-years maturity, as applicable. Planted tree canopy at
maturity shall be based on published reference texts generally accepted by landscape architects,
nurserymen, and arborists, i.e., in The Manual of Woody Landscape Plants by Michael A. Dirr (4th
edition, 1990).
Tree, deciduous. A tree that loses its leaves at the end of its growing season and becomes dormant
during the winter.
Tree, evergreen. A tree that does not shed its leaves in the winter but stays green all year.
Tree, ornamental. A tree that is typically a deciduous tree possessing qualities such as flowers or fruit,
attractive foliage, bark, or shape.
Tree, protected. Any healthy tree to be preserved on site shall be protected before, during, and after
the development process utilizing accepted practices; see Article VIII for the preference for which trees
are to be protected on a given site.
Tree, understory. A tree that is small enough, and sufficiently shade tolerant, to thrive under the
canopies of other, taller trees.
Visibility Triangle. A triangular area that is included between the lines of an intersecting public street
or private driveway, extended to the point where the lines intersect, and, at points on each line 20 ft.
distant from that point, a straight line connecting them.
Essential Landscaping Requirements:
The land owner is responsible for installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of required landscaping.
Encourage the use of native, drought-tolerant vegetation known to thrive in Virginia.
All plant material should be maintained in a healthy condition, replaced when necessary, and kept free of debris.
Existing vegetation should be preserved whenever possible as a part of required landscaping.
Any change of use or intensity of use at an existing development should be subject to landscaping standards.
Plans must identify the location, size and description of all existing and proposed landscaping materials.
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Right-of-Way Landscaping
Purpose: Lessen the adverse impacts of roadways and vehicle movement in proximity to developments and enhance community character.
Options: An area of 3-50 ft bordering a right-of-way with staggered mix of shrubs and trees. Trees can be of 1.5-3 in caliper planted every 40-50 ft. Shrubs not always mandated.
Applicability: Along road frontages, public right of ways, access easements, and specific corridors.
Deviations: May vary for specific corridors or road classifications. Number and spacing of required plantings and size of landscaped area also vary.
On-Site Screening
Purpose: Shield view of on-site functions, such as loading areas, dumpsters and trash collection, outside storage areas, maintenance areas, and mechanical equipment.
Options: 3-6 ft evergreen shrub or combination of shrub and 3 ft berm, or use of an architectural element compatible with building.
Applicability: Any exterior mechanical equipment (HVAC, tanks, transformers), dumpsters or loading areas visible from adjacent properties and streets.
Deviations: Generally consistent with site landscaping, but architectural elements, such as building walls or fences, may also be used.
Foundation Landscaping
Purpose: Soften the visual impact of building foundations and provide for the even dispersal of evergreen and deciduous shrubs along building walls facing streets.
Options: Planted within 3 ft of a building foundation and evenly distributed along walls. Evergreen or deciduous shrubs 3-6 ft in height every 5-10 ft. Planters or decorative pots may be used.
Applicability: Typically used in commercial and industrial districts for new development. This can apply to entire building or just walls that face the streets.
Deviations: If foundation is within 1-20 ft. of right-of-way, landscaping requirements may be different. Sidewalk can allow landscaping to be spaced farther away from building.
Landscaping requirements are one of the tools Virginia localities have available to them to enhance community character, protect
environmental resources, and reduce the impact of potentially incompatible uses. Local ordinances often require landscaping and screening
as part of development or land disturbing activities. These requirements are typically reviewed through an application which includes a
landscape plan submitted as a part of any development approval. Specific requirements focus on site design, transitional areas, and screening.
In doing so, these requirements are intended to preserve and promote the health, safety, and general welfare of a community. This guide
introduces different landscaping options that can be applied and modified as appropriate for each locality.
What Are Landscaping Requirements?
GUIDE TO LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
The Berkley Group | bgllc.net
Transitional Buffers
Purpose: Lessen impacts of more intense uses with landscaped areas of sufficient width, density, and height to divide and shield them from surrounding uses.
Options: Mix of trees and shrubs in an area 10-50 ft in depth. Deciduous or evergreen trees should reach 15-75 ft in height and be planted every 10-50 ft. Shrubs should reach 3-10 ft in height and be planted every 3-10 ft.
Applicability: Between adjacent lots or across the street from different zoning districts. Commonly used to protect agricultural and residential areas from industrial or commercial uses.
Deviations: Required plant materials and depth of landscaping may vary. A matrix can be used to differentiate recommended buffers for each land use type. Berms, fences or walls may be used to reduce the required buffer width.
Parking Lot Landscaping
Purpose: Mitigate a parking area's glare, heat-island, storm water, and visual impacts through required internal and perimeter landscaping standards.
Options: Buffer around perimeter with a percentage of lot interior to be landscaped and to include islands to break up rows of spaces. Between 5% and 15% of interior is landscaped. Use of islands of at least 150 sq. ft used to break up rows of 15-30 parking spots.
Applicability: In parking lots greater than 5-20 spaces or comparable square footage. Along outer boundaries of a lot except where driveways or other openings are needed.
Deviations: Specific corridors or road classifications may vary. Plant type, size of islands, total landscaping area, and the size of parking area that triggers requirements can vary.
Tree Canopy Requirements
Purpose: Protect and grow a community’s tree canopy by requiring planting or retention of trees in any development needing site plan approval.
Options: Localities may consider a minimum of 10% tree canopy for a site zoned business, commercial, or industrial; 10% for a residential site zoned 20 or more units per acre; 15% for a residential site zoned more than 10 but less than 20 units per acre; and 20% for a residential site zoned 10 units or less per acre.
Applicability: In accordance with Virginia code § 15.2-961, any locality with a population density of at least 75 persons per square mile or located within the Chesapeake Bay watershed may adopt an ordinance providing for the planting and replacement of trees during the development process, to achieve a percent tree coverage (designated by zoning type) in 20 years.
Deviations: Exemptions possible for the reasonable development of farmland or other open areas. Also, the development of school sites, playing fields and other non-wooded recreation areas may have more flexibility. Preservation of wetlands and unreasonable hardships to land owners can be considered.
Ensure orderly development that is consistent with the policies of the comprehensive plan on natural resources, the environment, and land use.
Facilitate the protection, replenishment, and maintenance of the existing natural features.
Improve the relationship between adjacent properties through screening and buffering.
Protect the unique features of a site which could otherwise be irretrievably lost due to careless site design.
Minimize noise, dust, and glare while also improving air quality and the quantity of stormwater runoff.
Preserve and enhance the aesthetic character of the community.
Why should a locality adopt landscaping requirements?
GUIDE TO LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
The Berkley Group | bgllc.net