On the agenda: Front Royal meeting — Data Center (Mar 4)

PLANNING COMMISSION WORK SESSION
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 @ 6 PM
Town Hall – 2nd Floor, East Conference Room
AGENDA

CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
WORK SESSION BUSINESS
1. 2025 Annual Report
2. Planning Commission By-Laws
3. Zoning Ordinance Draft – Review of I-1 District, I-2 District and Article 8
ADJOURNMENT

2025 ANNUAL REPORT

TOWN OF FRONT ROYAL
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ZONING

ANNUAL REPORT

TABLE OF CONTENTS
2025 Annual Report

Planning and Zoning Staff .................................................................................. 3
Planning Commission .......................................................................................... 4
Land Use Applications
Special Use Permits ........................................................................................ 5
Special Exception Applications .................................................................... 8
Rezoning Applications ................................................................................... 9
Ordinance Amendments .............................................................................. 10
Subdivision Applications ................................................................................ 13
Subdivision Applications Reviewed Administratively by Staff ................... 14
Additional Items Reviewed by the Planning Commission ......................... 15
Boards and Commissions Meeting Attendance .............................................. 16
Board of Zoning Appeals .................................................................................... 17
Board of Architectural Review ........................................................................... 19
Code Enforcement ............................................................................................. 24
Planning & Zoning Department Activity ........................................................... 25

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
2

PLANNING AND ZONING STAFF - 2025
Lauren Kopishke
Director of Planning and Zoning
August 2, 2021 – Current

John Ware
Deputy Zoning Administrator/Planner I
November 15, 2021 - Current

Daniel Wells
Property Maintenance Official/Code Enforcement
April 15, 2024 - Current
Sean Mennard
GIS Coordinator
October 22, 2025 - Current

Carol Buffa
Planning Technician
October 3, 2022 - Current

Connie L. Potter
Executive Assistant/Boards and Commissions Clerk
January 17, 2006 - Current

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
3

TOWN OF FRONT ROYAL PLANNING COMMISSION
The Planning Commission is established in accordance with an ordinance adopted by
the Front Royal, Virginia Town Council on October 8, 1934, and in accordance with Title
15.2, Chapter 22, Article 2, Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
The purpose of the commission is to serve in an advisory capacity to the Front Royal
Town Council on all matters related to the growth and development of the Town of
Front Royal.
In 2025, the Planning Commission held twelve (12) regular meetings, seventeen (17)
work sessions, and one (1) joint work session with the Board of Architectural Review. The
following pages list applications reviewed by the Planning Commission in 2025.
Connie Marshner ................................... Term Expires August 31, 2027
Appointed March 28, 2016, Reappointed July 18, 2019 and July 24, 2023
Vice Chairman September 6, 2023 – April 17, 2024
Chairman May 1, 2024 - Current
Megan Marrazzo.................................... Term Expires August 31, 2028
Appointed May 28, 2024 to fill Unexpired Term of Glenn Wood
Reappointed September 3, 2024
Louis A. R. Neel (Allen) .......................... Term Expires August 31, 2027
Appointed July 22, 2024 to fill Unexpired Term of Brian Matthiae
Vice Chairman January 15, 2025 - Current
Andrew Brooks ....................................... Term Expires August 31, 2029
Reappointed July 28, 2025
Teresa Fedoryka .................................... Term Expires August 31, 2026
Appointed February 24, 2025 to fill Unexpired Term of Gary Gillispie

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
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2025
SPECIAL USE PERMITS REVIEWED BY PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE OF MEETING
APPLICANT
STATUS
January 15, 2025

2400673 – A Special Use Permit Application
submitted by Pennoni Associates Inc. c/o
Mike Artz for Multi-Family Apartments
containing thirty-six (36) units in three (3)
separate apartment houses containing
twelve (12) units each and an office
building on a vacant parcel off of Royal
Lane, identified by Tax Map 20A17-1-14B1.
The property is zoned C-1, Community
Business District.

Recommendation of
Approval w/
Conditions.

March 19, 2025

2500054 – A request for a Special Use Permit Recommendation of
submitted by Heritage Hall XIII, LLC for the Approval.
expansion of the existing skilled nursing
facility building with a new building addition
for twenty (20) beds and associated facilities
located at 400 W. Strasburg Road, identified
by Tax Map 20A11-4-23. The property is
zoned R-2, Residential District.

April 16, 2025

2500072 – A request for a Special Use Permit Recommendation of
submitted by the Warren County Community Approval w/
Health Coalition for a lodging house at 506 Conditions.
N. Royal Avenue, identified by Tax Map
20A5-7-18-3,4. The property is zoned C-1,
Community Business District and is located
within the Entrance Corridor.
2500100 – A request for a Special Use Permit Recommendation of
submitted by Divinum Auxilium Academy for Approval w/
a private school located at 16 N. Royal Conditions.
Avenue, identified by Tax Map 20A5-11-15.
The property is zoned C-2, Downtown
Business District and is located within the
Entrance Corridor.

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
5

SPECIAL USE PERMITS (CONTINUED)
May 21, 2025

2500104 – A Special Use Permit Application Recommendation of
for a Farmers Market submitted by Julie Approval w/
Vaught, on behalf of Happy Creek Antiques, Conditions.
located at 515-B N. Commerce Avenue,
identified by Tax Map 20A4-10-8. The
property is zoned C-1, Community Business
District.
2500108 – A Special Us e Permit Application Recommendation of
to allow a short-term rental, submitted by Approval w/
Home Base Holdings LLC, located at 66 W. Conditions.
Strasburg Road, identified by Tax Map 20123-31B. The property is zoned R-1, Residential
District.

August 20, 2025

2500297 – A Special Use Permit Application Recommendation of
to allow a short-term rental (residential Approval.
occupancy purposes for a period of fewer
than thirty (30) consecutive days) submitted
by Shelly Cook and located at 1408 Old
Winchester Pike, identified by Tax Map
20A12-8-5. The property is zoned R-2,
Residential District.
2500336 – A Special Use Permit Application Recommendation of
to allow a Lodging House (a residential Approval.
building, other than a hotel, motel or bed
and breakfast home which is not open to the
public or transient guests), submitted by Life
Repair Center of Front Royal, and located at
437 S. Royal Avenue, identified by Tax Map
20A7-3-10. The property is zoned C-1,
Community Business District and is located in
the Entrance Corridor.
2500337 – A Special Use Permit Application Recommendation of
to allow a short-term rental (residential Approval.
occupancy purposes for a period of fewer
than thirty (30) consecutive days), submitted
by Claude Van Sant, and located at 101 The
Hill, identified by Tax Map 20A8-22-9A. The
property is zoned R-1, Residential District.

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
6

SPECIAL USE PERMITS (CONTINUED)
November 19, 2025

2500481 – A Special Use Permit Application
submitted by Fussell Florist for an artistic
mural, exceeding sixty (60) square feet in
size, on the east side of the building located
at 202 E. 2nd Street, identified by Tax Map
20A8-1-4-33. The property is zoned C-2,
Downtown Business District.

Recommendation of
Approval.

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
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2025
SPECIAL EXCEPTION REQUESTS REVIEWED BY PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE OF MEETING
APPLICANT
STATUS
March 19, 2025

2500049 – A request for a Special Exception from Recommendation
Town Code Chapter 148-820.D.6 submitted by of Approval.
Rappahannock HC LLC for property located at
1321 Happy Creek Road, identified by Tax Map
20A21-2-4 to reduce the required minimum
street pavement width from thirty-six feet (36’) to
twenty-nine feet (29’).

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
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2025
REZONING APPLICATIONS REVIEWED BY PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE OF MEETING
APPLICANT
STATUS
January 15, 2025

2400687 – Rezoning application submitted
by Skyline
Realty Investments,
LLC
requesting an amendment to the zoning
map to reclassify addresses 10, 30, 44, 52,
60 and a vacant lot on W. Strasburg Road
identified by Tax Map 20A12, Section 3,
Parcels 22, 26, 27A, 31C, 31 and 23 from C1, Community Business District to R-3,
Residential District.

Recommendation
of Approval.

June 18, 2025

2500238 – A Rezoning Application submitted Recommendation
by Stephen C. Williams, Esq./Trustee of Approval.
requesting an amendment to the zoning
map to reclassify vacant lots on Elsia Drive,
identified by Tax Map 20A6-1-5c and 6 from
C-1, Community Business District to R-3,
Residential District.

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
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2025
ORDINANCE/ZONING TEXT AMENDMENTS REVIEWED BY PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE OF MEETING
APPLICANT
STATUS
March 19, 2025

2500051 – An Ordinance Amendment to amend Postponed to the
Front Royal Town Code Chapter 175-137 April 16, 2025
pertaining to fees.
regular meeting.
2500062 – A Zoning Text Amendment to Town Remitted to the
Code Chapter 175-12.1 to allow lodging houses April 2, 2025 work
by Special Use Permit in the R-1 zoning district.
session.

April 16, 2025

2500051 – An Ordinance Amendment to amend Recommendation
Front Royal Town Code Chapter 175-137 of Approval.
pertaining to Fees, Charges and Expenses and
Chapter 148-1100 Fees.
2500062 – A Zoning Text Amendment to Town Recommendation
Code Chapter 175-12.1 to allow lodging houses of Denial.
by Special Use Permit in the R-1 zoning district.

July 16, 2025

2500218 – A Zoning Text Amendment to Town Recommendation
Code Chapter 175-84.B to add language of Approval.
restricting the redevelopment of historic
residential sites to single-family dwelling units in
the residential area of the Towns’ Historic District,
and Chapter 175-29 to add language
preventing the conversion of single-family
residential structures into multifamily or twofamily dwellings.
2500320 – A Zoning Text Amendment to Chapter Recommendation
175-3
to
define
Designated
Special of Approval.
Circumstance Housing, and §175-12.1, §17518.2.B, §175-20.1, §175-30, and §175-37.3 to add
Designated Special Circumstance Housing
performance standards by Special Use Permit
and create Chapter 175-153 (later assigned to
be Chapter 175-117 instead of 175-153) to add
Designated Special Circumstance Housing
performance standards.

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
10

ORDINANCE/ZONING TEXT AMENDMENTS REVIEWED
BY PLANNING COMMISSION (CONTINUED)

August 20, 2025

2500317 – A Zoning Text Amendment to Town Recommendation
Code Chapter 175-3 – Definitions, to redefine of Approval.
the definition of “Overhang” as it pertains to any
projection, either roof, bay window or similar
cantilevered
construction
which
extends
beyond the foundation of a structure.
2500319 – For the public necessity, convenience, Recommendation
general welfare, or good zoning practice, of Approval.
Zoning Text Amendments to Town Code §175-3
– Definitions, to define the use of an “Auxiliary
Dwelling Unit”, to amend the Residential Districts
in which it would be permitted by-right, and to
establish §175-115 “Auxiliary Dwelling Unit”
performance
standards
within
the
Supplementary Provisions of Town Code.
2500347 – For the public necessity, convenience,
general welfare, or good zoning practice,
Zoning Text Amendments to Town Code §175151 – Short-Term Rental performance standards,
to address modifications pertaining to fees,
parking and applicable Uniform Statewide
Building Code regulations and to retitle and
recodify Town Code §175-151 to §175-114; and
update the location of performance standards
for Tobacco, Smoke, or Vape Shops from §175152 to 175-116.

September 17, 2025

Recommendation
of Approval with
three (3)
Amendments.

2500320 – For the public necessity, convenience, Recommendation
general welfare, or good zoning practice, of Approval.
Zoning Text Amendment to Town Code §175-3
to define Designated Special Circumstance
Housing. Text Amendments to Town Code §17512.1.A, §175-18.2.B, §175-20.1, §175-30, and
§175-37.3.A to add Designated Special
Circumstance Housing performance standards
by Special Use Permit and establish Town Code
§175-117
to
add
Designated
Special
Circumstance Housing standards. (This item was
referred back to the Planning Commission by
Town Council for some minor changes.)

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
11

ORDINANCE/ZONING TEXT AMENDMENTS REVIEWED
BY PLANNING COMMISSION (CONTINUED)

September 17, 2025
(continued)

2500345 – For the public necessity, convenience, Recommendation
general welfare, or good zoning practice, of Approval.
Zoning Text Amendments to Town Code §175-3
– Definitions to define Data Centers and Town
Code §175-64 Industrial Employment District (I-2)
to add Data Centers with performance
standards by Special Use Permit.

October 15, 2025

2500319 – For the public necessity, convenience, Recommendation
general welfare, or good zoning practice, of Approval.
Zoning Text Amendments to Town Code §175-3
– Definitions, to define the use of an “Auxiliary
Dwelling Units”, to amend the Residential
Districts in which it would be permitted by-right,
and to establish §175-115 “Auxiliary Dwelling
Unit”
performance
standards
with
the
Supplementary Provisions of Town Code. (This
item was referred back to the Planning
Commission by Town Council for a suggested
text change.)

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
12

DATE OF MEETING

SUBDIVISION APPLICATIONS REVIEWED
BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION - 2025
APPLICANT

STATUS

January 15, 2025

2400421 - A request for Preliminary Plan approval Recommendation
for a major subdivision submitted by Ali Billoo for a of Approval.
subdivision containing nine (9) lots and sixteen (16)
dwelling units located at 336 W. Strasburg Road,
identified on tax map 20A11, section 4, parcel
23B. The property is zoned R-2, Residential District.

February 19, 2025

2500022 – A request for revisions to Subdivision
plan FRSUB1521-2019 for Happy Creek Knolls,
Section 4 regarding lots 4, 5, 6, 29, and 30,
submitted by Maronda Homes, Inc.

Recommendation
of Denial.

2500023 – A request for Final Subdivision Plat
approval for a major subdivision submitted by Ali
Billoo from a one (1) 3.52-acre parcel into eight (8)
residential lots, one (1) stormwater management
lot, and a residue lot located at 336 W. Strasburg
Road, identified on tax map 20A11, section 4,
parcel 23B. The property is zoned R-2, Residential
District.

Recommendation
of Approval.

2500050 – An Application for Preliminary Plat
Approval for a major subdivision submitted by
Chris Hornung, Rappahannock HC, LLC for a
subdivisions containing ninety-seven (97) dwelling
units located at 1321 Happy Creek Road,
identified on Tax Map 20A21-2-4. The property is
zoned R-1, Residential District.

Approved.

May 21, 2025

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
13

SUBMITTAL DATE

SUBDIVISION APPLICATIONS REVIEWED
ADMINISTRATIVELY BY STAFF – 2025
APPLICANT

STATUS

February 6, 2025

2500053, 2 Lots into 1, New Avenue, 20A4 7 5 33A

Approved

February 7, 2025

2500058, Boundary Line Adjustment, S. Shenandoah Avenue, 20A6
715 11.
2500131, Boundary Line Adjustment, 1015 Virginia Avenue, 20A5 4 4
2500210, 7 Lots into 3, W. Strasburg Road, 20A12 3 22A, 26A & 27A1
2500248, 1 Lot into 8, W. Strasburg Road, 20A12 3 21A, 22A2, 22A3,
22A4, 22A5, 22A6, 22A7 & 22A8
2500263, 1 Lot into 2, W. 11th Street, 20A5 1 C 11 & 11A
2500270, Boundary Line Adjustment, 15 & 17 W. 11th Street, 20A2 443
23A1 & 24A
2500310, 2 Lots into 1, W. 11th Street, 20A1 2 4 19A
2500344, 4 Lots into 2, Stockton Road, 20A821 K 10, 11, 12, & 13
2500355, 1 Lot into 2, 920 N. Shenandoah Avenue, 20A5 2 39 4A1, 4A
2500396, Boundary Line Adjustment, 450 & 454 Hill Stret, 20A712 36 &
36A
2500501, Boundary Line Adjustment, Northview Avenue, 20A9 1 3C &
3D
2500515, Boundary Line Adjustment, 227 & 231 Mosby Lane, 20A7-4179 & 179A
2500540, Lot Consolidation, 218 E. 4th Street, 20A4-10-17A
2500599, 6 Lots into 2, Grand Avenue, 20A6-6-4-11 thru 16

Approved

March 21, 2025
April 30, 2025
May 16, 2025
May 22, 2025
May 27, 2025
June 24, 2025
July 8, 2025
July 11, 2025
August 6, 2025
October 8, 2025
October 21, 2025
November 6, 2025
December 12, 2025

Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
On Hold
Approved
Approved
Approved
Preliminary
Approval
In Review
Approved
In Review
Approved

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
14

DATE OF MEETING

ADDITIONAL ITEMS REVIEWED
BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION – 2025
APPLICANT

STATUS

February 19, 2025

2500002 – Exterior Renovations to the structure Approved w/
located in the entrance corridor located at Conditions.
1355 N Shenandoah Avenue, identified by tax
map 20A2, section 4, block 57, parcels 23-34.
The property is zoned C-1, Community Business
District.

April 8, 2025
Joint Work Session
with the Board of
Architectural
Review

The Planning Commission held a joint work Town Council
session with the Board of Architectural Review Approved
to draft a Zoning Text Amendment to Town 9/22/2025.
Code §175-84.B – Board of Architectural
Review, to add language restricting the
redevelopment of historic residential sites to
single-family dwelling units in the Residential
Area of the Towns’ Historic District; and Town
Code Chapter 175-29 – Uses Permitted by
Right, to add language preventing the
conversion of single-family residential structures
into multifamily or two-family dwellings.

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
15

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEMBER MEETING ATTENDANCE 2025
Board of Zoning Appeals
NAME
Clare Schmitt
Cody Taylor
Maria Dutton
Lorie Noakes (Resigned 9/30/2025)
James Jackson
Tim Brogan

MEETINGS PRESENT
3
3
3
2
2
1

# OF MEETINGS
3 (100%)
3 (100%)
3 (100%)
2 (100%)
3 ( 67%)
1 (100%)

Board of Architectural Review Regular Meetings and Work Sessions
NAME

MEETINGS PRESENT

Gary Vaughan
Katherine Snyder
Collin Waters
Ellen Aders
Dede Nash
Teresa Henry
Kevin Cuddeback

5
3
8
8
5
1
1

# OF MEETINGS / WORK
SESSIONS
7 ( 71%)
7 ( 43%)
8 (100%)
8 (100%)
8 ( 63%)
1 (100%)
1 (100%)

MEETINGS PRESENT
17
15
18
11
13

# OF WORK SESSIONS
18 ( 94%)
18 ( 83%)
18 (100%)
18 ( 61%)
16 ( 81%)

MEETINGS PRESENT
12
10
11
10
9

# OF MEETINGS
12 (100%)
12 ( 83%)
12 ( 92%)
12 ( 83%)
10 ( 90%)

Planning Commission - Work Sessions
NAME
Connie Marshner
Megan Marrazzo
Louis A. R. Neel
Andrew Brooks
Teresa Fedoryka

Planning Commission - Regular Meetings
NAME
Connie Marshner
Megan Marrazzo
Louis A. R. Neel
Andrew Brooks
Teresa Fedoryka

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
16

BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS 2025
The Code of Virginia requires all jurisdictions with a Zoning Ordinance to have a Board of Zoning Appeals.
The Board of Zoning Appeals is a five-member board of citizens appointed by the Circuit Court. The Board
hears variance requests from the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance and appeals of decisions made by
the Zoning Administrator. All variance requests and appeals require a public hearing. Appeal and variance
requests are discretionary decisions; although case law does provide guidance as to what the courts
consider a hardship which is required for a variance approval.
In 2025, the Board of Zoning Appeals held three (3) regular meetings. The chart below shows the actions
taken by the Board of Zoning Appeals in 2025.

2025 BZA MEMBERS
Clare Schmitt .................Term Expires May 1, 2027.......... Appointed 3/27/2023
Cody Taylor ...................Term Expires May 1, 2029.......... Reappointed 4/22/2024
Maria Dutton .................Term Expires May 1, 2030.......... Reappointed 5/28/2025
James Jackson .............Term Expires May 1, 2028.......... Appointed 11/25/2024
Lorie Noakes ..................Term Expires May 1, 2026.......... Appointed 8/26/2024 Resigned 9/30/2025
Tim Brogan .....................Term Expires May 1, 2026.......... Appointed 10/27/2025 to Fill Unexpired Term

BZA ANNUAL REPORT 2025
DATE OF MEETING
February 18, 2025

APPLICANT
The BZA met to consider meeting minutes, elect officers, and
review the 2024 Board of Zoning Appeals Annual Report.

August 19, 2025

The BZA met to consider meeting minutes and review one (1)
Variance Application.

2500335 – A Variance Application submitted by Orange
Creek LLC for a variance from Town Code §175-24.A.
pertaining to the construction of a building and the side
yard setback located on property at 15 and 17 W. 11 th
Street, identified by Tax Map 20A2-4-43-24. The property is
located in the R-2, Residential District. The variance would
effectively allow the applicant a side yard setback of 8.7
feet. The required side yard setback should be a minimum of
ten feet (10’). The variance requested by the applicant is to
allow a setback of less than ten feet (10’) for a recently
constructed two-family attached dwelling.

ATTENDANCE
Present:
Clare Schmitt
Cody Taylor
Maria Dutton
Lorie Noakes
James Jackson
Present:
Clare Schmitt
Cody Taylor
Maria Dutton
Lorie Noakes
James Jackson
Denied: 5-0

Status: Chairman Taylor moved, seconded by Ms. Dutton to
deny the variance application. (Chairman Taylor stated the
BZA cannot legally grant a variance in the clear with it being
a self-created hardship.)

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
17

December 16, 2025

The BZA met to review meeting minutes received training
from staff. The BZA discussed two (2) “mock” cases. One
Zoning Determination Appeal and one (1) Variance
Request.

Present:
Clare Schmitt
Cody Taylor
Maria Dutton
Tim Brogan
Absent:
James Jackson

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
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BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW 2025
The Board of Architectural Review (BAR) consists of five (5) voting members who are appointed by the
Town Council. The intent of the BAR is to promote and protect the health, safety, comfort, recreation,
prosperity, and general welfare of the community through the identification, preservation and
enhancement of buildings, structures, neighborhoods, landscapes, places, and areas which have special
historical, cultural, artistic, architectural, or archaeological significance as provided by Section 15.1-503.2
of the Code of Virginia, as amended.
In 2025, the Board of Architectural Review held five (5) regular meetings, two (2) work sessions and one (1)
joint work session with the Planning Commission. The BAR heard eight (8) application requests. The chart
below shows the actions taken by the BAR in 2025.

2025 BAR MEMBERS
Gary Duane Vaughan .................. Term Expires November 13, 2025
Katherine Snyder ............................ Term Expires November 13, 2025
Collin Waters................................... Term Expires November 13, 2025
Ellen Aders ...................................... Term Expires November 13, 2027
Dede B. Nash .................................. Term Expires November 13, 2028
Kevin Cuddeback ......................... Term Expires November 13, 2029
Teresa Henry ................................... Term Expires November 13, 2029

DATE OF MEETING
January14, 2025
Regular Meeting

Appointed December 21, 2009
Appointed October 28, 2021
Appointed February 22, 2021
Appointed October 23, 2023
Appointed November 25,2024
Appointed October 27, 2025
Appointed October 27, 2025

BAR ANNUAL REPORT 2025
APPLICANT
Application
#2400693
–
A
Certificate
of
Appropriateness Application submitted by Shelly
Cook for the installation of stairs, installation of 2nd
level deck and railings, removal of windows and
replace with a door on the second story accessing
the deck, and removal and replacement of the 2nd
story front and side windows at 207 S. Royal Avenue,
identified by Tax Map 20A7-4-106. The property is
zoned C-1, Community Business District and is
located in the Historic Overlay District. Work is
complete.

STATUS
Present:
Collin Waters
Dewey Vaughan
Ellen Aders
Dede Nash
Absent:
Katie Snyder

Status: Ms. Aders moved, seconded by Ms. Nash to Approved: 4-0
approve application #2400693, approving the rear Absent: 1
deck, the door, and vinyl windows throughout the
structure except the front façade. Approval is
conditional on the front two (2) windows being
replaced with divided light, two over two, doublehung wooden windows complete with wooden
sash, jam and sill.

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
19

January14, 2025
Regular Meeting
(Continued)

Application
#2400694
–
A
Certificate
of
Appropriateness Application submitted by Shelly
Cook/Cook Realty for a building to house an
outdoor pizza oven at 201/205 S. Royal Avenue,
identified by Tax Map 20A7-4-108 & 109. The
property is zoned C-1, Community Business District
and is located in the Historic Overlay District. The
building has already been erected.
Status: Ms. Aders moved, seconded by Ms. Nash to Approved: 4-0
approve application #2400694 with the following Absent: 1
conditions:
1. Paint to match as closely as possible to the
existing structure.
2. Gutter along the back side.
3. Not to exceed longer than twelve (12)
months from today (January 14, 2025).
Application
#2400710
A
Certificate
of
Appropriateness Application submitted by Cook
Realty/Shelly Cook for exterior renovations to house
the future kitchen for a restaurant located behind
201 and 205 S. Royal Avenue, at 10 W. Stonewall
Drive (address #10 to be assigned) identified by Tax
Map 20A7-4-108 & 109. The property is zoned C-1,
Community Business District and is located in the
Historic Overlay District.
Status: Ms. Aders moved, seconded by Vice
Chairman Vaughan to approve application
#2400710 as submitted on condition of the
following:

Approved: 4-0
Absent: 1

1. A standing seam metal roof.
2. Metal or wood casement style windows
with six (6) lights per sash.
3. Infill the rear rollup door with cinderblock
and add a standard door per building
code.
4. Replace the front rollup door with a metal
and glass black frame door.
5. Replace the east window on the front
façade with a door and side light to match
the rollup keeping to the current width of

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
20

January14, 2025
Regular Meeting
(Continued)

the existing window, height adjusted as
needed.
6. Add Dutch Lap cedar siding, 5” to 7” to the
front façade, not to exceed the height of
the rollup door and paint black above the
cedar siding.
7. The addition of up to two (2) black lantern
style lights above the entrance for people.

March 11, 2025
Regular Meeting

Application
#2400691
–
A
Certificate
of
Appropriateness
Application
submitted
by
Cloverdale LLC to re chink the log and possible
replacement of any damaged logs depending on
their condition at 123 Chester Street, identified by
Tax Map 20A8-2-4B. The property is zoned C-2,
Downtown Business District and is located in the
Historic Overlay District.

Present:
Collin Waters
Dede Nash
Katherine Snyder
Ellen Aders
Absent:
Dewey Vaughan

Status: Ms. Aders moved, seconded by Ms. Nash to Approved: 4-0
approve COA Application #2400691 as submitted Absent: 1
with the scope of services outlined.
Application
#2500047
–
A
Certificate
of
Appropriateness Application submitted by Hyo K.
Bang to replace eighteen (18) existing wood
windows with vinyl windows at 507 E. Main Street,
identified by Tax Map 20A8-7-4. The property is
zoned C-2, Downtown Business District and is located
in the Historic Overlay District. Work has started.
Status: Ms. Aders moved, seconded by Ms. Snyder to Approved: 4-0
approve the three (3) vinyl windows on the west Absent: 1
facing façade which faces the laundromat on the
upstairs portion of the home and to deny all other
windows in the house.
March 11, 2025
Work Session

At their work session the BAR discussed previous COA Present:
applications, enforcement procedures, and revising Collin Waters
the Historic District Guidelines.
Dede Nash
Katherine Snyder
Ellen Aders
Absent:
Dewey Vaughan

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
21

April 8, 2025
Joint Work Session
with the Planning
Commission

August 12, 2025
Regular Meeting

The BAR held a joint work session with the Planning
Commission to draft a Zoning Text Amendment to
Town Code §175-84.B – Board of Architectural
Review,
to
add
language
restricting
the
redevelopment of historic residential sites to singlefamily dwelling units in the Residential Area of the
Towns’ Historic District; and Town Code Chapter 17529 – Uses Permitted by Right, to add language
preventing the conversion of single-family residential
structures into multifamily or two-family dwellings.

Present:
Collin Waters
Dewey Vaughan
Katherine Snyder
Ellen Aders

Application #2500359 – A Certificate of
Appropriateness
Application
submitted
by
Elizabeth Lewis on behalf of the Town of Front
Royal to install a 24” x 36” ground mounted sign
located near the Town of Front Royal Gazebo on
property identified by Tax Map no. 20A8-5-2 to
commemorate the dedication of the Gazebo
and Front Royal Commons as “John Marlow
Plaza”. The property is zoned C-2, Downtown
Business District and is within the Historic Overlay
District.

Present:
Collin Waters
Dewey Vaughan
Ellen Aders
Dede Nash

Absent:
Dede Nash

Absent:
Katherine Snyder

Status: Vice Chairman Vaughan moved, seconded Approved: 4-0
by Ms. Aders to approve the application as Absent: 1
presented.
September 9, 2025
Work Session

The BAR met in a work session to continue a
discussion related to the Zoning Text Amendment
to Town Code §175-84.B – Board of Architectural
Review, to add language restricting the
redevelopment of historic residential sites to
single-family dwelling units in the Residential Area
of the Towns’ Historic District; and Town Code
Chapter 175-29 – Uses Permitted by Right, to add
language preventing the conversion of singlefamily residential structures into multifamily or twofamily dwellings. In addition, the Board discussed
training for BAR members, obtaining a new
Virginia Department of Historic Resources Survey,
BAR by-laws, revisions to the Historic District
Guidelines, and updates on previous violations.

Present:
Collin Waters
Dewey Vaughan
Ellen Aders
Katherine Snyder
Absent:
Dede Nash

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
22

October 14, 2025

Application #2500476 – A Certificate of
Appropriateness Application submitted by Dollar
House, LLC, c/o Matthew Tederick, Managing
Member to replace the existing wood decking
on the front porch with Trex decking, replace the
existing wood steps with a composite material,
and to replace the existing handrails from wood
to black pipe at 100 Peyton Street. Work is
complete.

Present:
Collin Waters
Dewey Vaughan
Ellen Aders
Absent:
Dede Nash
Katherine Snyder

Status: Ms. Aders moved, seconded by Vice Approved: 3-0
Chairman Vaughan to approve the application Absent: 2
with the contingencies of covering up the Trex
edging along the steps on the right side of the
building, replacing the tops of the handrails from
Trex to wood, and painting all of the wood that is
exposed now by the spring time.
December 16, 2025
Regular Meeting

Application #2500531 – A Certificate of
Appropriateness Application submitted by Stella
Maris, LLC to replace the existing 288 square foot
wood deck with Trex and obtain approval for the
existing handicap ramp at 25 S. Royal Avenue,
identified by Tax Map 20A7-4-23. The property is
zoned C-2, Downtown Business District and is
located in the Historic Overlay District. Work has
started.

Present:
Collin Waters
Ellen Aders
Dede Nash
Teresa Henry
Kevin Cuddeback

Status: Ms. Aders moved, seconded by Ms. Nash to Approved: 5-0
approve Application #2500531 as presented to the
Board of Architectural Review.
The BAR continued discussing proposed revisions to
the Historic District Guidelines.

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
23

CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITY 2021 – 2025
CODE ENFORCEMENT

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

New Code Enforcement Cases Opened

203

424

407

177

152

Code Enforcement Cases in Compliance/Closed

--

361

378

112

59

Code Enforcement Inspections & Re-Inspections

--

340

423

209

191

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
24

PLANNING & ZONING DEPARTMENT ACTIVITY 2021 – 2025
APPLICATIONS

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

Zoning Permits
New Dwelling Units
Land Use Applications
Code Amendments
Sign Permits
Business Licenses
Short-Term Rentals
Administrative Variance
Certificate Of Appropriateness Administrative Review
Certificate Of Appropriateness Board Review
Solicitor/Itinerant Merchant
Urban Agriculture
Alley Vacation
Right of Way Utilization Permits
Walk-Ins to Planning & Zoning

293
27
29
7
47
172
1
---------

280
37
56
2
41
155
13
---------

393
32
36
4
62
148
5
4
39
11
10
18
5
46
--

320
60
46
1
44
129
5
1
18
15
27
11
2
105
2606

291
21
44
9
36
127
2
1
33
5
19
4
9
32
2255

PLANNING AND ZONING ANNUAL REPORT 2025
25

PLANNING COMMISSION
BY-LAWS

BYLAWS
PLANNING COMMISSION
TOWN OF FRONT ROYAL, VIRGINIA
ARTICLE I
AUTHORIZATION
1. The Planning Commission is established in accordance with an ordinance adopted
by the Front Royal, Virginia Town Council on October 8, 1934, and in
accordance with Title 15.2, Chapter 22, Article 2, Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended. The bylaws were adopted by the Planning Commission on November 8,
1978. (Amended November 1984, March 1992, April 2001, January 2008 and
April 20, 2022)
2. The official title of this Planning Commission shall be “Town of Front Royal
Planning Commission,” hereinafter referred to as the “Commission.”
ARTICLE II
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES
1. The purpose of the commission is to serve in an advisory capacity to the Front
Royal Town Council on all matters relative to the growth and development of the
Town of Front Royal.
2. The Commission, with the advice and assistance of the Planning Office and the
Town Attorney, shall:
a. Prepare and recommend :
i.
a comprehensive plan for the physical development of the Town
and review the plan every two years as a goal, but at least once
every five (5) years as required by Section 15.2-2230, Code of
Virginia (1950), as amended.
ii. elements and amendments to the Comprehensive Plan;
iii. amendments to the Zoning Ordinance;
iv.
proffer guidelines and level of service standards to be used in
evaluating re-zoning proposals;
v.
amendments to the Subdivision Ordinance; and
vi.
amendments to the Capital Improvement Program.
b. Review and make recommendations on:
i.
all amendments to the Zoning Map;
ii. proffer proposals that accompany rezoning requests;
iii. all special use permit applications to the Town Council; and
iv.
subdivisions as prescribed by the Subdivision Ordinance.
c. Approve the general or approximate location, character, and extent of
streets, parks or other public buildings, public structures, public utility
facilities, or public service corporation facilities other than railroad
facilities, whether publicly or privately owned, as required by Section
15.2-2232, Code of Virginia (1950), as amended and communicate its
findings to the Town Council. Review and recommend proposals to
incorporate new areas into the town as adjacent development occurs.
Page 1 of 6
Approved April 20, 2022

d. Carry out all other such matters as may be appropriate pursuant to the
Town of Front Royal Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Ordinance,
Subdivision Ordinance, Design and Construction Standards Manual, and
other ordinances of the Town of Front Royal and/or the Commonwealth of
Virginia or as directed by the Town Council.
e. Establish and maintain standing and special committees as required.
ARTICLE III
MEMBERSHIP
1. The Commission shall consist of at least five (5) members, appointed by the
Town Council, all of whom shall be residents of the Town of Front Royal and
qualified by knowledge and experience to make decisions on questions of growth
and development. At least one-half of the members so appointed shall be owners
of real property.
2. The members of the Commission first appointed shall serve two years, three
years, and four years, divided equally or as nearly equal as possible between the
membership. Subsequent appointments shall be for terms of four years each. The
terms of office for the member of the Town Council and the administrative
appointee, if any, shall be coexistive with their terms of office, unless the Town
Council appoints others in their stead.
3. Vacancies shall be filled by the Town Council.
4. Members of the Commission appointed for active membership after August 1989
shall serve for an uninterrupted period of no more than three (3) full terms. Partial
terms shall not be counted as a part of this limitation. This limitation does not
prevent a commissioner from being reappointed to the Commission after
expiration of three (3) terms, provided that any reappointment is preceded by an
interval of at least one (1) term during which the person does not serve on the
Commission.
5. Any member of the Commission may be removed by the Town Council upon
recommendation of the Commission Chair for neglect of duty, or malfeasance of
office.
6. Every member of the Planning Commission shall become a certified planning
commissioner within one (1) year of appointment; provided, however, that Town
Council may grant a six (6) month extension of the certification requirement at its
discretion.
7. Members of the Planning Commission shall be compensated in an amount
determined by the Town Council.
ARTICLE IV
OFFICERS AND DUTIES
1. Officers of the Commission shall consist of a Chairperson, and ViceChairperson.
2. The Commission shall be provided a recording secretary by the Planning Office
Staff who shall have no vote in Commission matters.
Page 2 of 6
Approved April 20, 2022

3. The term of office of an officer shall be one (1) year.
4. Each officer shall be elected by the membership. A candidate receiving a majority
vote of the entire membership shall be declared elected. The Officers may
succeed themselves. Election of officers shall take place at an organizational
meeting to be held at the regular February session of each year.
5. Vacancies shall be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the officers
are originally chosen.
6. The Chairperson shall:
a. preside at all meetings and public hearings;
b. appoint committees, and be an ex-officio member thereof;
c. rule on procedural questions, subject to a reversal by a two-thirds (2/3)
majority vote of the members present;
d. report any official communications to the Commission;
e. certify all official documents involving the authority of the Commission,
and certify all minutes as true and correct copies;
f. generally act as spokesman for the Commission;
g. ensure new members are properly oriented to the Commission bylaws and
rules of order;
h. in coordination with the Director of Planning, establish the agenda for all
Planning Commission meetings;
i. facilitate discussion among Commission members, ensuring each member
has the opportunity to participate in discussions and that the discussion
remains on topic.
7. The Vice-Chairperson shall:
a. act in the absence or inability of the Chairperson to act.
b. Have the powers to function in the same capacity as the Chairperson in
cases of the Chairperson’s absence or inability to act.
8. The secretary shall:
a. record and prepare the minutes of all Commission meetings,
b. notify members of all regular and special meetings,
c. maintain a file of all official Commission records and reports,
d. prepare and be responsible for the preparation of all official Planning
Commission communications, and
e. ensure that an annual written report and monthly minutes be submitted by
the Commission to Town Council.
ARTICLE V
COMMITTEES
1. For the purpose and terms approved by the Commission, the Chairperson may
appoint standing and special committees from its membership.
2. Each committee shall elect a Chairperson for said committee from the committee
members. The Committee Chairperson shall:
a. set the time and place for Committee meetings;
b. facilitate committee meetings;
Page 3 of 6
Approved April 20, 2022

c. ensure the planning office provides appropriate public notice of committee
meetings;
d. appoint a secretary to take meeting minutes that shall be held by the
Planning Office; and
e. report committee meeting minutes and results back to the full
Commission.
3. A majority of committee members shall constitute a quorum. A quorum shall be
required to conduct committee business.
ARTICLE VI
VOTING
1. A majority of the voting membership shall constitute a quorum.
2. Action of the Chairperson shall be valid when authorized by a majority vote of
those present and voting.
3. Each of the voting Commission members shall be entitled to one vote on all
matters before the Commission, but may exercise such rights only in person and
during a regular meeting or duly advertised meeting or hearing of the
Commission.
ARTICLE VII
MEETINGS
1. Regular meetings of the Commission shall be held on the third Wednesday of
each month in the Warren County Government Center at 7:00 PM, or at a time
and place designated by the Commission as a regular meeting or as
advertised. Regular meetings will be held at least once every two months. In the
event a quorum cannot be present at a regular meeting, the Chairperson will
reschedule it to the first day in the next week that a quorum and appropriate venue
can be available or cancel the meeting with the consent of a majority of the
Commissioners.
2. Special meetings and/or working sessions may be called by the Chairperson or by
two members upon written request to the Secretary. Work sessions and special
meetings require a quorum.
3. The Chairperson shall make every reasonable effort to accommodate the
Commission Members’ personal schedules, however, in the event a Commission
member misses more than three (3) work sessions or regular meetings in a six (6)
month period the Commission may recommend dismissal of that member to the
Town Council.
4. Individual Commissioner members may participate in meetings remotely by
electronic means only in accordance with the rules and procedures for Town
Public Bodies as a Public Body Member, all pursuant to Town Code §4-1.1.
5. Any time three (3) or more Commission members are required to meet to conduct
Commission business, that meeting shall be properly advertised to the Public by
the Planning Office prior to the meeting. No meetings of three (3) or more
Commission Members shall be held that have not been properly advertised.
Page 4 of 6
Approved April 20, 2022

6. The term “meeting” or “meetings” as used in these bylaws shall exactly follow
the definition of those words contained in Section 2.2-3701 of the Code of
Virginia (1950), as amended.
7. All meetings of the Commission shall be open to the public. However, the
Commission may meet in closed sessions on issues specifically referenced in the
Virginia Freedom of Information Act. Such proceedings shall be in accordance
with §2.2-3707, Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
ARTICLE VIII
ORDER OF BUSINESS
1. The order of business for a regular meeting of the Commission shall be:
a. Call to order by Chairperson.
b. Determination of a quorum.
c. Approval of minutes.
d. Citizens’ Comments or Concerns
e. Public hearings.
f. Other applications.
g. Report of committees, if any.
h. Old business.
i. New business.
j. Commission concerns.
k. Adjournment.
When deemed appropriate by a majority of the Commissioners present and voting at a
regular meeting, this order of business may be altered by the Chairperson to improve the
efficiency of the meeting.
Members of the public wishing to speak during the Citizens’ Comments or Concerns
period shall sign in with the Clerk of the Commission prior to the start of the meeting and
speakers shall be subject to the following reasonable time, place, manner restrictions: (1)
a three (3) minute time limit, (2) the speaker’s comments shall be relevant to the business
of the Commission and directed to the Commission, (3) the speaker’s comments shall not
address the subject matter of a public hearing being held during the same meeting, (4) no
personal attacks, indecorous language, or display of signs, placards, posters or other
disruptive displays.
2. Parliamentary procedure in Commission meetings shall be governed by the latest
edition of Roberts’ Rules of Order then available at the time of the meeting.
3. The Commission shall keep a set of minutes of all meetings and these minutes
shall become a public record.
ARTICLE IX
PUBLIC HEARINGS

Page 5 of 6
Approved April 20, 2022

1. The Commission shall conduct public hearings on matters as prescribed by the
Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, and on any other matter when it deems that
such a hearing would be in the public interest.
2. The Commission shall publish a notice of public hearings at least once a week for
two successive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation prior to the date of the
hearing, as prescribed by Section 15.2-2204, Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended.
3. The Chairperson shall summarize or request staff to summarize the matter before
the Commission, allowing interested parties to address the Commission and
accept written statements and other documentation pertinent to the matter before
the Commission. A record shall be kept of those speaking before the hearing.
4. The Chairperson may set time limits and the order in which interested parties
address the Commission.
ARTICLE X
1. These bylaws may be amended by majority vote of the entire Commission
membership.
2. In the event any provision herein is in conflict with Town Ordinance or Code of
Virginia (1950), precedence shall be given in the following order:
a. Code of Virginia (1950)
b. Town Ordinance
3. In the event any provision of these bylaws is determined to be illegal, that
provision alone will be stricken as null and void and all other provisions will
remain in full effect.

Page 6 of 6
Approved April 20, 2022

DRAFT ZONING ORDINANCE
I-1, LIMITED INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT

1

DIVISION 6.13 - LIMITED INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT (I-1)

2

Section 6.13.1 - STATEMENT OF INTENT (I-1) (175-54)

3
4
5
6

The primary purpose of the I-1 District is to permit certain industries in town which do not in any
way detract from residential desirability of nearby areas and to permit industries to locate near a
labor supply. Mobile homes for residential purposes are prohibited but may be used for certain
other uses as stated below.

7

Section 6.13.2 - USES PERMITTED BY RIGHT (I-1) (175-55)

8
9
10

Subject to the standards and requirements set forth in this Chapter, except as prohibited or
restricted by separate restrictions of record that may pertain to property within the I-1 District, the
following uses of land and buildings are permitted by-right in the I-1 District:

11

RESIDENTIAL:

12

Caretaker quarters.

13

COMMERCIAL:

14

Automobile and truck sales lots and leasing agencies, in accordance with Section 6.9.8.E.

15

Automobile garage (auto repair)

16

Automobile service stations (gas stations)

17

Coal and wood yards, lumberyards and feed/seed stores.

18

Commuter parking facilities

19

Contractor’s offices, display rooms and storage.

20

Furniture stores

21

Lumber and building supply.

22

Veterinary hospitals

23
24

INDUSTRIAL:

25

Distribution facilities

26

Light Manufacturing.

27

Woodworking and upholstery shop.

28

Wholesale

29

ORGANIZATIONAL:

30

Laboratory, pharmaceutical and/or medical.

31

MISCELLANEOUS:

32

Accessory uses, structures and buildings.

33

Home occupations.

34

Open Space

35

Public facilities.

36

Public parks and playgrounds.

37

Public utilities.

38

Signs, as set forth in Article 10.

39

Special childcare services.

40
41

Such other uses as determined similar to one or more enumerated uses by the Zoning
Administrator.

42

Section 6.13.3 - USES PERMITTED BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT (I-1) (175-56)

43
44
45

A. The following uses are permitted within the I-1 District only by approval of a special use permit,
except as prohibited or restricted by separate restrictions of record that may pertain to property
within the I-1 District:

46

RESIDENTIAL:

47

COMMERCIAL:

48

Assembly Halls.

49

Business Offices.

50

Clubs.

51

Barber and beauty shops.

52

Kennels.

53

Professional Offices.

54

Recreation facility, commercial.

55

Restaurant, including drive-in restaurants.

56

Retail Stores.

57

Technology Business

58

INDUSTRIAL:

59

Medium Industrial.

60

ORGANIZATIONAL:

61

MISCELLANEOUS:

62
63
64
65
66

Any use permitted under Section 6.13.2, or specifically listed above under this subsection, that
proposes to occupy a building or structure that exceeds the height requirements of Section 6.13.7,
subject to the requirements of Division 5.1. Additional heights approved by a special use permit
shall be required to increase the required setback and yard area requirements by an equivalent
distance from each property line.

67
68

Communications Towers and cable television facilities, with wireless telephone (cell phone)
communications tower subject to the supplemental provisions prescribed in Division 9.9.

69

Conservation Areas

70

Mini-warehouses

71

Parking Structures

72

Section 6.13.4 - AREA REGULATIONS (I-1) (175-57)

73

The minimum lot area shall be ten thousand (10,000) square feet.

74

Section 6.13.5 - SETBACK (I-1) (175-58)

75
76
77

Buildings shall be located twenty (20) feet or more from any street right-of-way which is fifty (50)
feet or greater in width or forty-five (45) feet or more from the center line of any street right-ofway less than fifty (50) feet in width.

78

Section 6.13.6 - FRONTAGE AND YARDS (I-1) (175-59)

79

A. The minimum lot width shall be sixty (60) feet.

80
81

B. Each side and rear yard shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet. The side and rear yard adjoining
or adjacent to a residential district shall be forty (40) feet.

82

Section 6.13.7 - HEIGHT (I-1) (175-60)

83
84
85
86

Buildings may be erected up to a height of forty-five (45) feet. Chimneys, flues, cooling towers,
flagpoles, radio or communication towers or their accessory facilities not normally occupied by
workmen are excluded from this limitation. Parapet walls are permitted up to four (4) feet above
the height of the building on which the walls rest.

87

Section 6.13.8 - LOT COVERAGE (I-1) (175-61)

88
89

Buildings or groups of buildings with their accessory structures may cover up to seventy percent
(70%) of the area of the lot.

90

Section 6.13.9 - CORNER LOTS (I-1) (175-62)

91
92

A. Of the two (2) or more yards of a corner lot with frontage along multiple streets, the front yard
shall be established by the following criteria:

93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105

1. For new subdivision applications, the front yard shall be identified by the applicant on the
subdivision site plan and approved by the Town on the approved final plat.
2. For new construction on existing corner lots where no front yard is designated on the approved
final plat, the property owner shall determine the front yard on the Zoning Permit application and
shall be approved by the Town on the approved Zoning Permit.
3. For existing structures, the front yard shall be the yard with frontage that the front façade of the
primary building faces.
4. The approved front yard established by this Code Section shall only be changed by review and
approval of a revised final plat approved by the Planning Commission. Such future requests shall
be approved if the Planning Commission determines that the proposed front yard is consistent with
other properties along the same street frontages.

B. The side yard setback on the side facing a side street shall be twenty (20) feet or more for main
buildings, and twenty (20) feet or more for accessory buildings.

106

C. Each corner lot shall have a minimum width at the setback line of one hundred (100) feet.

107
108

D. The rear yard setback if facing a street shall be fifty (50) feet or more for both main and
accessory buildings.

109
110

Section 6.13.10 - PLANS REQUIRED; ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS (I-1) (17563)

111
112
113
114
115
116

A. Before a building permit shall be issued or construction commenced on any permitted use in
this district or a permit issued for a new use, the plans, in sufficient detail to show compliance
with substantive provisions of this chapter and the operations and processes, shall be submitted
to the Zoning Administrator for study. The Administrator shall refer these plans to the Planning
Commission for its recommendation. Modification of the plans may be required. Such plans
shall be drawn in accordance with Sections 175-116 and 175-117.

117
118

B. Except where otherwise specifically approved in the Town Code, permitted uses shall be
conducted wholly within a completely enclosed building.

119
120

C. Outdoor storage, outdoor display or outdoor sale of goods shall only be permitted when each
of the following standards are met.

121
122

1. Outdoor storage, outdoor display, or outdoor sale of goods shall be used in direct
association with the primary use or uses of the property.

123
124
125
126
127

2. Outdoor storage, outdoor display and/or outdoor sales shall be screened to obstruct view
from any adjacent public street. A screen may consist of a building, solid masonry
wall, uniformly painted solid board fence or landscaping. The height of the screening
shall be 6’ feet unless an alternative height is approved by the Planning Commission
during the review of a site plan.

128

3. The following types of outdoor display and/or outdoor sales shall be exempt from the

129

requirements of Section 6.13.10.C.2.

Commented [CH1]: references?
Commented [AA2R1]: Lauren, please amend as you see fit.
This does not exist in current ordinance.

130

a. Motor vehicles.

131
132
133

b. Power operated machines designed for outdoor labor, such as farming, construction or
lawn maintenance, as well as large equipment, products, and materials designed to
be kept outdoors. Plants and other landscaping products typically sold with plants.

134
135

c. Temporary or seasonal activities, such as but not limited to, peddlers and itinerant
merchants that have obtained approval from the Town.

136

d. Pre-manufactured buildings.

137

e. Vending machines.

138
139
140
141
142

f. General products, goods, merchandise, and/or materials, provided that (i) no more than
200 square feet of area is used, and (ii) outdoor display and/or sales are restricted
from the evening and night hours from 8PM to 5AM, except that general products,
goods, merchandise, and/or materials may be kept outdoors if located under a roofed
structure.

143
144
145
146

D. The Planning Commission may require landscaping within any established or required front
setback area. The plans and execution must take into consideration traffic circulation. Landscaping
may be permitted up to a height of three (3) feet and to within fifty (50) feet from the corner of
any intersecting streets.

147
148
149

E. Sufficient area shall be provided to adequately screen permitted uses from adjacent business
and residential districts and for off-street parking, which shall be in accordance with the
provisions set forth in Section 9.10.2.

150
151
152
153
154

F. The Administrator shall act on any application received within thirty (30) days after receiving
the application. If formal notice in writing is given to the applicant, the time for action may be
extended for a thirty-day period. Failure on the part of the Administrator to act on the
application within the established time limit shall be deemed to constitute approval of the
application.

155

DRAFT ZONING ORDINANCE
I-2, INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYMENT DISTRICT

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DIVISION 6.14 - INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYMENT DISTRICT (I-2)

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Section 6.14.1 - STATEMENT OF INTENT (I-2) (175-64)

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The I-2 Industrial Employment District is designed to:

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A. Enable the establishment of industrial and employment uses and structures in appropriate
locations of the town.

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B. Prevent land or structures from being used in a manner so as to create any dangerous, injurious,
noxious or otherwise objectionable risk of fire, explosion, radioactivity or other hazardous
condition; noise or vibration, smoke, dust, odor or other form of air pollution; electrical or other
disturbance, glare or heat; liquid or solid waste; or other condition that would detract from the
residential and commercial desirability of the adjoining areas.

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C. Provide controls and standards for the establishment of industrial and employment uses and
structures in keeping with the purposes of this Article and the Front Royal Comprehensive Plan.

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Section 6.14.2 - USE REGULATIONS (I-2) (175-65)

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Subject to the standards and requirements set forth in this Chapter, except as prohibited or
restricted by separate restrictions of record that may pertain to property within the I-2 District, the
following uses of land and buildings are permitted by-right in the I-2 District:

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RESIDENTIAL:

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Caretaker quarters

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COMMERCIAL:

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Automobile and truck sales lots and leasing agencies, in accordance with Section 6.9.8.E

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Automobile garage (auto repair)

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Automobile service stations (gas stations)

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Business Offices

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Coal and wood yards, lumberyards and feed/seed stores

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Commuter parking facilities

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Contractor’s offices, display rooms and storage

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Furniture stores

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Lumber and building supply

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Professional Offices

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Technology Business

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Veterinary hospitals

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INDUSTRIAL:

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Distribution facilities

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Light Manufacturing

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Woodworking and upholstery shop.

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Wholesale

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ORGANIZATIONAL:

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Laboratory, pharmaceutical and/or medical

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Schools

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MISCELLANEOUS:

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Accessory uses, structures and buildings

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Home occupations

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Open Space

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Public facilities.

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Public parks and playgrounds

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Public utilities

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Signs, as set forth in Article 10

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Special childcare services

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Such other uses as determined similar to one or more enumerated uses by the Zoning Administrator

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Section 6.14.3 - USE PERMITTED BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT (I-2)

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The following uses are permitted within the I-2 District only by approval of a special use permit,
except as prohibited or restricted by separate restrictions of record that may pertain to property
within the I-2 District:

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RESIDENTIAL:

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COMMERCIAL:

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Airport (including heliports)

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Assembly Halls.

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Barber and beauty shops

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Catering Services

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Clubs

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Daycare and daycare facilities

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Kennels

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Recreation facility, commercial

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Restaurant, including drive-in restaurants

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Retail Stores

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INDUSTRIAL:

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Automobile Graveyard

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Hazardous Material Storage

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Heavy Manufacturing

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Medium Manufacturing

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Scrap metal processing

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ORGANIZATIONAL:

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MISCELLANEOUS:

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Any use permitted under Section 6.14.2.A., or specifically listed above under this subsection, that
proposes to occupy a building or structure that exceeds the height requirements of Section 6.14.5,
subject to the requirements of Division 5.1. Additional heights approved by a special use permit
shall be required to increase the required setback and yard area requirements by an equivalent
distance from each property line.

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Communications Towers and cable television facilities, with wireless telephone (cell phone)
communications tower subject to the supplemental provisions prescribed in Division 9.9.

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Conservation Areas

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Mini-warehouses

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Parking Structures

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Section 6.14.4 - AREA REGULATIONS (I-2) (175-66)

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A. Minimum lot size: twenty thousand (20,000) square feet.

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B. Minimum lot width: eighty (80) feet.

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C. Minimum district size: ten (10) acres.

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Section 6.14.5 - MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF BUILDINGS (I-2) (175-67)

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A. All buildings/structures: seventy-five (75) feet, except as provided for in Section 6.14.2.B.

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B. Exemptions to height requirements:

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1. Chimneys and flues.

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2. Cooling towers.

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3. Flagpoles.

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4. Radio and communications towers.

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5. Parapet walls up to four (4) feet above the height of the building on which the wall rests.

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6. Water towers.

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7. Elevator towers.

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Section 6.14.6 - MINIMUM YARD DIMENSIONS (I-2) (175-68)

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A. All structures:

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1. Front: twenty-five (25) feet.

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2. Side: ten (10) feet.

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3. Rear: zero (0).

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4. Corner side: twenty-five (25) feet.

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B. Transitional requirements, when adjoining a residential district

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1. Side: forty (40) feet.

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2. Rear: forty (40) feet.

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3. All transitional yards shall be landscaped in accordance with Section 148-44.

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Section 6.14.7 - LOT COVERAGE (I-2) (175-69)

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A. Maximum building coverage: - fifty percent (50%).

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B. Maximum impervious surface coverage: - seventy-five percent (75%).

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Section 6.14.8 - PERFORMANCE STANDARDS (I-2) (175-70)

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The following performance standards shall apply to all uses within the I-2 Industrial Employment
District:

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A. Vibration:

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1. No continuous, frequent or repetitive vibrations shall be produced which are discernible to
a person of normal sensitivities, without instruments, on land that is not zoned for industrial
uses.

Commented [AD1]: Same section ref. Doesn’t exist.

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2. Vibrations from temporary construction and vehicles leaving the property (such as trucks
or trains) are excluded. Vibrations from on-site equipment or vehicles that remain primarily
on-site are included.

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3. Vibrations of no more than five (5) minutes in any one (1) day between the hours of 7:00
a.m. and 7:00 p.m. shall not be deemed continuous, frequent or repetitive.

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B. Glare: Any operation or activity producing intense light or glare shall be performed in such a
manner as not to create a glare effect across lot lines. Direct illumination from any source shall be
screened from adjoining properties.

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C. Heat:

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1. Heat from an industrial use shall not at any time cause a temperature increase in the air on
any adjacent property in excess of ten degrees Fahrenheit (10 F.).

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2. Heat from an industrial use shall not at any time cause a temperature increase in a stream,
wetland, lake or any other body of water, at or beyond the property line of the lot on which
it is located, that would have an adverse effect on any aquatic life.

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D. Liquid or Solid Wastes:

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1. No industrial use shall result in the discharge of liquid or solid waste into any public sewer,
private sewage system, public waters or into the ground except in compliance with
applicable federal, state or local laws governing such discharge.

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2. There shall be no accumulation outdoors of solid wastes conducive to the breeding of
rodents or insects.

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3. All discharges into any public sewer shall comply with the provisions of Section 134-2, et
seq.

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E. Smoke and Particulate Matter:

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1. Open storage and open processing operations, including on-site transportation movements
which are the source of windborne dust or other particulate matter or which involve dust or
other particulate air contaminant generating equipment (such as used in paint spraying,
grain handling, sand or gravel processing or sandblasting) shall be conducted so that dust
and other particulate air contaminants are not transported in visible quantities across the
boundary line of the tract on which the industrial use is located.

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2. All industrial uses shall comply with state and federal air pollution control regulations.

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F. Toxic and Hazardous Materials:

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1. All toxic and hazardous materials used in industrial operations shall be registered with the
Front Royal Fire Department for purposes of safety.

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2. Activities involving the storage or use of materials or products which decompose by
detonation shall be registered with the Front Royal Fire Department.

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3. Explosives shall be stored, used and manufactured in accordance with applicable state and
federal regulations.
G. Odor:

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1. No continuous, frequent or repetitive emission of odors or odor-causing substances of such
intensity and character as to be detrimental to the health and welfare of the public or
neighboring landowners or to interfere with the comfort of the public or neighboring
landowners at or beyond the property line shall be permitted. Any such odor or odor causing
activity or substance shall be removed, stopped or so modified as to remove the odor.

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2. An odor which is evident no more than once in any one (1) day for a period not exceeding
five minutes shall not be deemed as continuous, frequent or repetitive within the meaning
of these regulations.

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H. Noise:

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1. No industrial activity shall generate noise that tends to have an annoying or disruptive effect
upon uses located beyond the property boundary.

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2. Where technical evidence of violation is warranted, sound levels shall be measured at
locations specified in Section 6.14.9 with a sound level meter and associated octave band
filter,
manufactured
in
accordance
with
the
American
Standards
Association. Measurements shall be made using the flat network of the sound level
meter. No sound pressure level shall exceed the decibel levels in the octave bands shown
herein.

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3. Maximum permitted sound levels (in decibels):

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Octave Band Cycles

Maximum Permitted

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Per Second

Sound Level
in Decibels

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0 to 75

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75 to 150

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150 to 300

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300 to 600

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600 to 1200

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1200 to 2400

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2400 to 4800

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Above 4800

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4. Noise resulting from temporary construction activity between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and
7:00 p.m. shall be exempt from this section.
I. Screening:

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1. Except where otherwise specifically approved in the Town Code, permitted uses shall be
conducted wholly within a completely enclosed building.

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2. Outdoor storage, outdoor display or outdoor sale of goods shall only be permitted when
each of the following standards are met.

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a. Outdoor storage, outdoor display, or outdoor sale of goods shall be used in direct
association with the primary use or uses of the property.

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b. Outdoor storage, outdoor display and/or outdoor sales shall be screened to obstruct view
from any adjacent public street. A screen may consist of a building, solid masonry wall,
uniformly painted solid board fence or landscaping. The height of the screening shall be
6’ feet unless an alternative height is approved by the Planning Commission during the
review of a site plan.

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3. The following types of outdoor display and/or outdoor sales shall be exempt from the
requirements of Section 6.14.8.I.2.b.

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a. Motor vehicles.

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b. Power operated machines designed for outdoor labor, such as farming, construction or
lawn maintenance, as well as large equipment, products, and materials designed to be
kept outdoors.

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c. Plants and other landscaping products typically sold with plants.

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d. Temporary or seasonal activities, such as but not limited to, peddlers and itinerant
merchants that have obtained approval from the Town.

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e. Pre-manufactured buildings.

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f. Vending machines.
g. General products, goods, merchandise, and/or materials, provided that (i) no more than
200 square feet of area is used, and (ii) outdoor display and/or sales are restricted from
the evening and night hours from 8PM to 5AM, except that general products, goods,
merchandise, and/or materials may be kept outdoors if located under a roofed structure.

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4. All sites and parking areas shall be landscaped in accordance with the provisions of
Sections 148-46, 148-47 and 148-48.

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5. Automobile graveyards and junkyards, including those in existence at the time of the
adoption of this chapter, shall completely screen, on any side open to view from a public

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road, the operation or use by a solid masonry wall, a uniformly colored solid fence or dense
evergreen plantings at least six (6) feet in height at the time of planting.

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Section 6.14.9 - LOCATIONS FOR DETERMINATION OF PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS (I-2) (175-71)

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Measurements may be made at ground level or at habitable levels of buildings. Measurements
shall be made at the property boundary of the parcel where the industrial use is located.

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Section 6.14.10 - ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS (I-2) (175-72)

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A. Before a building permit or zoning permit shall be issued or construction commenced on any
uses in this district or a permit issued for a new use, the development plans shall be submitted to
the Zoning Administrator for review. Sufficient detail shall be provided on said plans to show
compliance with the substantive provisions of this chapter and compliance of the operations and
processes to the performance standards.

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B. Determinations of a violation shall be made pursuant to a test using either the senses of the
Zoning Administrator and a second municipal official/employee, or using equipment before notice
of violation is issued. The operator of an industrial use shall be given written notice of the time
and place of the test and given a reasonable opportunity to witness the test.

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C. The Zoning Administrator will notify landowners and business operators/tenants in writing of
violations and will then seek compliance. When notified of a violation, a landowner or tenant will
have the opportunity to demonstrate that the operation predates the application of this Article and
is therefore a valid nonconforming use. A finding of violation may be appealed to the Board of
Zoning Appeals and then to the courts.

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D. If a violation exists and the operator fails to take satisfactory action within two (2) weeks, the
Zoning Administrator shall take or cause to be taken such action as is appropriate to cause
correction of such violation. Failure to obey lawful orders concerning correction of such violation
shall be punishable as provided generally for violations in the Zoning Ordinance and in other laws
or regulations affecting the case.

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Section 6.14.11 - OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING (I-2) (175-73)

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A. Parking space requirements:

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1. Industrial uses/manufacturing/distribution areas: one (1) space per employee and one (1)
space for every vehicle used on site, plus one (1) space per delivery/loading bay.

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2. Automobile garages: two (2) spaces per service bay, or two (2) spaces for every three
hundred sixty (360) square feet. Every such facility shall have a minimum of three (3)
spaces.

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3. Industrial uses/office component: one (1) space per three hundred (300) square feet of office
area.

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4. Other uses not specifically enumerated: see Section 9.10.2.

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B. Location: Minimum setback for loading areas, driveways and parking: five (5) feet from side
and rear property lines for parking areas with fewer than fifteen (15) spaces and five (5) feet from
front property line except where driveway entrance is located. All parking areas with fifteen (15)
or more spaces shall meet the requirements of Section 148-48.

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C. Loading space requirements:

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1. Number: one (1) space for first ten thousand (10,000) square feet of gross floor area, plus
one (1) space for each additional forty thousand (40,000) square feet or fraction thereof. For
purposes of this section, gross floor area shall include gross outdoor storage areas, covered
or uncovered.

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2. Size of space: minimum twelve (12) feet wide and fifty-five (55) feet in length, with a
minimum clear height of fifteen (15) feet.

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DRAFT ZONING ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 8 – USE REGULATIONS

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ARTICLE 8 – USE REGULATIONS (175-107)
DIVISION 8.1 – USES FOR ELDERLY, DAY CARE, BED AND BREAKFAST
AND CEMETARIES

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Section 8.1.1 - NURSING AND CONVALESCENT HOMES, INCLUDING HOMES
FOR THE ELDERLY (175-107)

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In addition to the requirements of the district in which the nursing or convalescent home is located,
such uses shall meet the following requirements:

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A. All state rules and regulations for the licensing of such uses.

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B. All requirements of the State Health Department and Fire Marshal's office regarding such uses.

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C. Parking requirements as established in Chapter 148.

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D. Architectural barriers, such as stairs, for residents of such establishments shall be overcome to
the greatest extent possible. Additional safety features, such as handrails, in various areas shall be
installed.

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Section 8.1.2 - DAY CARE AND DAY-CARE FACILITIES IN RESIDENTIAL ZONING
DISTRICTS BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT (175-107.1)

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The following provisions shall apply to day care and day-care facilities located in residential
zoning districts:

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A. All day-care operations in residential zoning districts shall be restricted to not more than one
hundred (100) children per day-care facility.

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B. All day-care operations and day-care facilities shall be licensed by the Commonwealth of
Virginia in accordance with the provisions of Virginia Code Section 63.1-196, as amended, unless
otherwise specifically exempted from such licensing requirements under provisions of the Virginia
State Code.

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C. Day-care operations in residential districts shall not be permitted in single-family or multifamily residential dwellings.

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D. Day-care operations in residential districts shall be restricted to schools, churches, lodges,
hospitals, rest, convalescent or nursing homes, offices or halls which are otherwise permitted by
right in the respective residential district in question, or any of the aforementioned facilities which
are currently in existence as a nonconforming use, or any of the aforementioned facilities which
have previously been approved for non-day-care purposes by Special Use Permit. The day-care
operation shall be an ancillary or additional use to the facility in question. Facilities shall not be
constructed in residential districts solely for daycare use.

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E. All day-care facilities in residential zoning districts shall be required to have a minimum lot size
of twenty thousand (20,000) square feet for day-care operations with fifty (50) children or fewer
and forty thousand (40,000) square feet for day-care operations with more than fifty (50) children.

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F. In assessing the request for a special use permit to conduct day-care operations in residential
zoning districts, the Council shall consider and may require the availability of safe on-site dropoff and pickup areas, outdoor play areas not located in the facility's front yard, fenced play areas
and screening or noise buffers for adjacent properties. The Council shall also consider the nature
and suitability of the proposed facility, the size, location and characteristics of the grounds or yard,
the safety of the children to be cared for at the facility, peak and non-peak traffic patterns, parking,
the effects on nearby property and residents, noise and such other factors which the Council deems
pertinent in assessing the suitability of any proposed day-care operation in a residential zoning
district.

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Section 8.1.3 - BED AND BREAKFAST USES IN RESIDENTIAL ZONING
DISTRICTS BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT (175-107.2)

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The following provisions shall apply to Bed and Breakfast Uses located in residential zoning
districts:

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A. The minimum lot size for a Bed and Breakfast Home use shall be 1.5 acres if associated uses
referenced in Subsection H are proposed on the property. The minimum lot size for a Bed &
Breakfast with no associated uses in 0.5 acres.

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B. The maximum number of guest rooms shall be ten (10) for Bed & Breakfasts with a lot size of
1.5 acres or greater. The maximum number of guest rooms shall be six (6) for Bed and Breakfasts
with a lot size of 0.5 acres to 1.49 acres.

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C. No provisions shall be allowed for cooking in individual guest rooms.

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D. Parking shall be provided as follows: Two (2) spaces for residents, one (1) space per guest
room and spaces for associated uses as determined by the Planning Commission. Tandem or
stacked parking arrangements may be approved. Parking for associated uses must be provided on
site.

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E. The provision of the required parking and the traffic created due to this use shall not adversely
impact any adjacent residential uses.

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F. The exterior appearance of the structure shall not be altered from its single-family character.

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G. Adequate landscaping, distancing and/or restriction of hours of operation shall be provided to
buffer the adjacent residential uses from any noise or light generated by this use that is either
uncharacteristic of residential neighborhoods or takes place at times uncharacteristic to residential
neighborhoods.

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H. Associated uses are allowable and may include but not be limited to catered events such as
receptions and dinner parties, provided that such associated uses do not adversely impact any
adjacent residential uses.

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I. The owner must reside on premise.

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J. Applicable provisions of the Uniform Statewide Building Code and all other laws, regulations,
inspections, and licenses must be met.

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K. Each Bed and Breakfast shall be allowed one (1) on premise sign no larger than two feet by two
feet (2’ x 2’).

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L. The owner must submit a plat of the property showing the existing conditions and location of
the proposed parking.

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Section 8.1.4 - BED AND BREAKFAST USES IN COMMERCIAL C-1 AND C-2
ZONING DISTRICTS BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT (175-107.3)

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A. The maximum number of guest rooms shall be six (6).

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B. No provisions shall be allowed for cooking in individual guest rooms.

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C. The owner must reside on premise.

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D. The exterior appearance of the structure must not be altered from its single-family character.

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E. Parking shall be provided as follows: two (2) spaces for residents and one (1) space per guest
room.

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F. Applicable provisions of the Uniform Statewide Building Code and all other applicable laws,
regulations, inspections, and licenses shall be met.

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G. The owner must submit a plat of the property showing the existing conditions and the location
of proposed parking.

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Section 8.1.5 - CEMETERIES IN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (R-3) BY SPECIAL USE
PERMIT (175-107.4)

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The following provisions shall apply to cemetery uses located in residential (R-3) zoning districts:

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1. Cemetery uses shall be located within a churchyard and designated on a plat to be submitted
with the application.
2. Cemetery uses shall be marked with a fence or stone.
3. The location of cemeteries shall be registered with the Planning and Zoning Department.
4. Cemetery uses shall be set back 150 feet from lot lines.
5. Cemetery uses shall be set back a minimum of 250 yards from a residence if property owner
consent is not received to be located closer to the residence (§57-26 Code of Virginia).

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6. Cemetery uses shall be set back a minimum of 300 yards from a city, town, or water company
well (§57-26 Code of Virginia).

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DIVISION 8.2 – TEMPORARY USES AND STRUCTURES

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Section 8.2.1 - RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AND TRAVEL TRAILERS (175-100)

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A. Recreational vehicles and travel trailers may be stored in a side, corner side, or rear yard of a
lot, provided they are stored in a location that meets the minimum yard requirements as would be
required for an accessory building of the same dimensions. Except as provided in subsection B
below, no recreational vehicles shall be stored closer to a street than the minimum setback line or
yard requirement in any district and occupancy shall be prohibited. Other restrictions, as found
under Chapter 158, Section 19.1, apply to the parking of recreational vehicles within the public
right of way.

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B. Temporary parking of recreational vehicles and travel trailers that does not comply with
Subsection A may be allowed in the front yard only for the following circumstances:

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1. Temporary parking of up to three (3) consecutive days, located entirely on private property,
and on a paved driveway, for the sole purposes of cleaning and preparing the unit for use or
storage.
2. Temporary parking of up to fourteen (14) days within any calendar month, up to three times
during the calendar year, for temporary accommodation of visitors. The vehicle shall not
be permanently connected to public utility system. However, the vehicle may be connected
to electricity temporarily for charging batteries or other purpose related to the preparation
of the vehicle for use.
3. Temporary parking for the purpose of camping where campgrounds are permitted, or
permitted by special use permit.

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4. Extensions of time to the above restrictions of this subsection may only be granted under
the same conditions as found under Division 9.8.E.

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Section 8.2.2 - TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION TRAILERS (175-109)

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A. Zoning permits for temporary trailers may be issued by the Zoning Administrator in any zoning
district for construction purposes only. Temporary trailers may not be used for residential purposes
or sales offices. All permits for temporary construction trailers shall be subject to the following
conditions:

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1. The Zoning Administrator shall review and approve or deny all requests for temporary
construction trailer permits. In assessing a request for a temporary construction trailer
permit, the Zoning Administrator shall consider the necessity for such temporary
construction trailer, its location and its effects on the surrounding neighborhood and/or
adjoining property owners and may require terms and conditions on the location and
placement, type and number of trailers, screening and such other reasonable conditions as
the Zoning Administrator shall deem necessary.

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2. The location of temporary construction trailers on a specific site shall be necessary for the
purpose of a construction office or storage.

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3. The request for a temporary construction trailer permit shall be filed by the contractor,
landowner or State Department of Highways and Transportation as being essential to the
construction activity.

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4. A minimum area of two thousand (2,000) square feet shall be provided for each temporary
construction trailer space.

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5. Each temporary construction trailer shall have a minimum of two (2) off-street parking
spaces in addition to other parking spaces required by this chapter for other activities.

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6. All sanitary facilities must conform to State Health Department trailer camp sanitation
requirements.

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B. The maximum period allowable for the placement of a temporary construction trailer shall be
six (6) months or until completion of the project, whichever is shorter. Applications for renewal
for a successive six-month periods may be submitted if additional time is required to complete the
project. However, each renewal application must be filed at least thirty (30) days prior to the
expiration of the original temporary construction trailer permit

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C. The Zoning Administrator, in granting a temporary construction trailer permit, may require the
posting of a bond to ensure that the temporary construction trailer will be removed and the site left
in good order at the expiration of the permit.

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D. The Zoning Administrator may establish such additional requirements and conditions as may
be in the best interests of the Town.

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Section 8.2.3 - TEMPORARY TRAILERS; NONRESIDENTIAL USES (175-109.1)

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A. The Town Council in its discretion may grant a Special Use Permit for approval not to exceed
one (1) year for the use of a temporary trailer or a temporary manufactured home for specified
nonresidential purposes related to the following permitted uses:

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1. Hospitals.

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2. Schools.

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3. Churches.

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4. Institutions.

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5. Rest, convalescent or nursing homes.

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6. Public utilities.

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7. Industrial facilities.

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B. The Special Use Permit may be granted for any zoning district, provided that the underlying
use is permitted in that zoning district. For good cause shown, Council may vote to grant a single
extension for an additional period not to exceed one (1) year.

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C. All temporary trailers approved under this section for a period of six (6) months or more shall
be placed and anchored on a foundation appropriate for a two-year duration. All such foundations
shall be skirted.

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D. The Special Use Permit application shall specify the event or solution that will terminate the
need for the temporary trailer. In assessing the application for a Special Use Permit, Council shall
consider the following:

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1. The effect on surrounding properties.

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2. The effect on community appearance.

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3. The stated need for a temporary facility, and the availability of alternative solutions.

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4. Traffic and safety factors.

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5. Such additional factors as may apply to the site, and the particulars of the application.

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DIVISION 8.3 – AUTOMOBILE AND TRUCK USE REGULATIONS

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Section 8.3.1 - AUTOMOBILE SERVICE STATIONS (175-110)

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The Town Council, upon recommendation from the Planning Commission, may place certain
restrictions on automobile service stations in the C-1, C-2, I-1 and I-2 Zones, in addition to the
regulations of those zones, based on the following criteria:

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A. The effect of such proposed buildings and use upon the character of the neighborhood, traffic
conditions, public facilities and other matters pertaining to the public health, safety and general
welfare.

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B. All appliances for dispensing gasoline installed outside of enclosed buildings shall be located
not less than fourteen (14) feet from any property line adjoining the public street and all such
appliances shall be installed and maintained in such location as to prevent any part of vehicles
being serviced from standing on the street, alley or sidewalk area.

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Section 8.3.2 - INOPERATIVE MOTOR VEHICLES (175-110.1)

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A. No more than one (1) inoperative motor vehicle, trailer or semitrailer, as defined by Virginia
Code Section 46.2-100,, which is inoperative, shall be kept outside a completely enclosed building
on any property zoned for residential or commercial purposes. Such inoperative vehicle must be
fully screened year-round from public view by plantings, fencing or a professionally manufactured
car cover. Any inoperative vehicle stored under a car cover shall not be maintained on the same
lot for more than six months in a twelve-month period. In no case shall any inoperative vehicles
be stored in the required parking spaces for the use or in any required yard adjoining a public street.

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B. For the purpose of this section, the word "inoperative" shall mean:

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1. A motor vehicle, pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-904.A.(ii), which for a period of 60 days
or longer has been partially or totally disassembled by the removal of tires and wheels, the
engine, or other essential parts required for operation of the vehicle.
2. A motor vehicle, pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-904.A.(iii), on which there are displayed
neither valid license plates nor a valid inspection decal.

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C. The provisions of this section shall not apply to a person, firm or corporation which has been
regularly and continuously licensed and engaged in the business of an automobile dealer, salvage
dealer or scrap processor at the property in question since June 26, 1970.

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D. The owners of property zoned for residential or commercial purposes shall at the demand of
the Town Council or its designated agent remove from their property any such inoperative motor
vehicles, trailers or semitrailers that are not kept within a fully enclosed building or
structure. Notice of the demand shall be sent to the property owner by first class mail to the owner's
address as it appears in the Town tax records. In the event that the inoperative vehicle has not been
placed in a fully enclosed building or structure, fully screened year- round from public view by
plantings, fences or a professionally manufactured car cover, or removed from the property within
ten (10) days from the date the notice was sent, then the Town or its designated agent may remove
the inoperative vehicle, and thereafter dispose of the same upon furnishing the vehicle owner with
ten (10) days' written notice. If the vehicle owner cannot be determined, the property shall be
disposed of in accordance with Town Code Section 124-1 et seq.

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E. The cost of inoperative vehicle removal, storage and/or disposal shall be chargeable to the
owners of the vehicle or the owners of the premises, and may be collected by the Town as taxes
and levies are collected. Every cost authorized by this section which is assessed against the owners
of the premises shall constitute a lien against the property from which the vehicle was removed,
and shall continue to constitute a lien until actual payment in full has been made to the Town.

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Section 8.3.3

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A. In the zoning districts listed below in this subsection, it shall be unlawful for any person, firm
or corporation to keep, park or store upon any lot in R-1, R-1A, R-2, R-3 Residential Zoning
Districts or any residential portion of a PND or MCD District, any tractor truck or semitrailer
designed to be used with a tractor truck, as defined in Virginia Code Section 46.2-100, or any truck
with a registered gross weight in excess of twelve thousand (12,000) pounds. These provisions
shall apply regardless of whether such a vehicle is kept, parked or stored in the open or within an
enclosed structure.

TRUCKS AND SEMITRAILERS (175-110.2)

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1. R-1 District

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2. R-1A District

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3. R-2 District

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4. R-3 District

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5. PND District (only within areas approved solely for residential use)

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B. The provisions of subsection 8.3.3.A. shall not apply to any of the following vehicles:

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1. School buses, church buses and other buses engaged in public transportation.

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2. Pickup trucks with a registered gross weight of twelve thousand (12,000) pounds or less.

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3. Panel truck with a registered gross weight of twelve thousand (12,000) pounds or less.

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4. Motor homes, camping trailers and recreational vehicles as defined in Virginia Code Section
46.2-100. See Section 8.2.1 for recreational vehicle regulations.

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5. Trailers of every type, except semitrailers designed to be used with a tractor truck.

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6. Hospital mobile units and fire and rescue vehicles.

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7. Vehicles owned and operated by public utilities.

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8. Farm vehicles used in agricultural pursuits on parcels of land one (1) acre or larger.

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C. The provisions of subsection 8.3.3.A. shall not apply to any vehicle which comes upon property
for pickups, deliveries and service to property made in the regular course of business or which
comes upon the property in the course of construction, maintenance or improvement to the
property or adjoining streets and facilities.

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D. Other than areas where semitrailers are restricted, as listed above under subsection A, trailers
may be used for temporary storage; provided that, (i) the location of the semitrailer(s) is not located
in the required yard area adjacent to any public street, (ii) the location of the semitrailer(s) does
not interfere with required parking, vehicular mobility and vehicular maneuvering, (iii) the
location is on an all-weather surface material, (iv) all fire and building code requirements are
complied with, (v) a zoning permit is obtained from the Town, and (vi) no more than one trailer
for temporary storage shall be permitted on property in any commercial zoning district. A 6’ high
opaque fence, hedge, landscape screen, wall, building wall, or berm may be used for screening to
prevent view of a trailer used for temporary storage.

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Section 8.3.4 - MOTOR VEHICLE PAINTING AND BODY WORK (175-110.3)

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Motor vehicle body work and painting establishments shall comply with the following
requirements:

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A. All work shall be conducted in a completely enclosed building.

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B. Used or damaged equipment removed from vehicles during the process shall be stored indoors,
in a completely screened enclosure or shall be deposited in an approved covered outdoor collection
receptacle for appropriate off-site disposal.

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C. Temporary overnight outdoor storage and parking of vehicles waiting for repair or pickup shall
be permitted. All damaged vehicles shall be stored indoors or in a completely screened enclosure.
No long-term storage (sixty (60) days or more) shall be permitted.

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D. A certificate of compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code shall be
obtained for the use prior to commencement of the activity.

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E. All hazardous waste material, including paint, oil, antifreeze, etc., shall be disposed of only with
a licensed
hazardous waste removal firm.

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F. The facility shall be equipped with adequate filtering to ensure that no overspray or particulate
matter from the operation shall be discernible beyond the property line.

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G. Notwithstanding the provisions of Article 13 pertaining to the definition of junkyard,
authorization for the outdoor storage of up to eight (8) vehicles intended to be salvaged for parts
may be made as part of the Special Use Permit approval. Such vehicles shall be confined to a
defined storage area that is effectively screened from public view.

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DIVISION 8.4 - SHORT-TERM RENTALS (175-151)
Short-term rentals shall be permitted in all Zoning Districts by Special Use Permit and shall at a
minimum meet the following requirements:
A.

B.
C.

D.
E.
F.
G.

H.
I.

The short-term rental owner of a dwelling unit to be used for a short-term rental shall apply
for a Special Use Permit through the Department of Planning and Zoning and receive
approval from Town Council prior to utilizing the dwelling unit as a short-term rental. Town
Council may impose conditions necessary to mitigate adverse effects of the use on
neighboring properties.
The one-time application fee shall be $400.
Staff will conduct an inspection prior to the issuance of the Special Use Permit approval.
Additional inspections will be conducted on a complaint basis to ensure compliance with the
performance standards listed in this section, along with any additional conditions imposed by
Town Council, if applicable.
The maximum number of occupants in the dwelling unit shall be determined by the number
of bedrooms; there shall be no more than two (2) adults per bedroom. However, the maximum
number of occupants shall not exceed 10 people unless approved by Council.
Parking for the use shall be located in driveways or other designated and approved parking
areas.
There shall be no visible evidence of the conduct of such short-term rentals on the outside
appearance of the property.
A fire extinguisher shall be provided and visible in all kitchen and cooking areas; smoke
detectors shall be installed in all locations as identified in the 2015 or 2018 Uniform Statewide
Building Code (2018 Version required usage beginning July 1, 2022); and a carbon monoxide
detector must be installed on each floor in every dwelling.
The owner of a dwelling used for short-term rentals shall give the Town written consent to
inspect any dwelling used for short-term rental to ascertain compliance with all the above
performance standards upon a twenty-four-hour notice.
A property management plan demonstrating how the short-term rental will be managed and
how the impact on neighboring properties will be minimized shall be submitted for review
and approval as part of the permitting process to the Planning Department. The plan shall
include local points of contact available to respond immediately to complaints, clean up
garbage, manage unruly tenants and utility issues, etc. It shall also be posted in a visible
location in the short-term rental. The contact numbers shall be provided to Town staff, public
safety officials and, if applicable, the HOA of the subdivision. The plan must be provided as

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part of the rental contract.
J. If the property is located within a subdivision governed by a homeowners' association, the
Planning Department must receive proof that a notification to operate the short-term rental
was sent to the HOA.
K. The owners of the rental shall provide an emergency evacuation plan for the dwelling and the
neighborhood.
L. A copy of Chapter 106 of the Town of Front Royal Code relative to noise must be provided
at the short-term dwelling.
M. All outdoor burning shall be in compliance with Chapter 78 of the Town of Front Royal Code.
N. Failure to comply with the approved conditions and/or supplemental regulations will subject
the permit to revocation by the Zoning Administrator at any time.

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DIVISION 8.5 – HOME OCCUPATIONS (175-108.1)

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All home occupations shall meet the following standards:

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A. The use shall be clearly incidental to the principal use of the property for residential purposes
and shall not change the exterior appearance of the dwelling unit, or change the character of the
neighborhood.

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B. Operators of home occupations must be residents on the same parcel, or parcels, where the
home occupation is located. Notwithstanding subsection B, nonresident employees may also work
for the home occupation, but no more than one (1) nonresident employee may work from the
parcel, or parcels, at the same time.

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C. No outdoor display, sales or storage of goods, materials or equipment shall be permitted. except
that, the Zoning Administrator may authorize up to two (2) business vehicles, including any
vehicle used by a nonresident employee. Indoor storage is permitted, provided that it does not
violate the other restrictions of this section, including, but not limited to, changing the appearance
of the dwelling unit, changing the character of the neighborhood, or increasing traffic.

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D. No wholesale or retail business shall be permitted unless it is conducted entirely by mail and/or
telephone and does not involve the bulk shipment/delivery of merchandise to and from the
premises; provided, however, that articles produced by the home occupation operators may be sold
on the premises.

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E. Provided that the other requirements of this section are complied with, home occupations shall
include, but shall not be limited to, the following uses: home offices, computer repair services,
telecommunication services, artist studios, instructional services/tutoring, dressmaking,
babysitting/babysitting services, or small item repair services. Uses that are restricted from being
classified as home occupations shall include, but shall not be limited to, the following uses: motor
vehicle repair, beauty/barber shops (with more than one (1) customer at a time), restaurants, animal
hospitals/kennels, retail sales, and dance studios.

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F. In the instance of a home occupation involving a nonresident employee, at least one (1)
additional off-street parking place shall be provided.

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G. No home occupation shall create greater vehicular or pedestrian traffic than is otherwise normal
for the district in which it is located.

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H. No home occupation shall create noise, dust, vibrations, smells, smoke, glare, electrical
interference, fire hazard or any other hazard or nuisance to any greater or more frequent extent
than that usually experienced in the district on residentially used zoning lots where no home
occupation exists.

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I. Notwithstanding other regulations within this Chapter, signs are not permitted for home
occupations, except that the Zoning Administrator may authorize a sign for the following
circumstances.

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1. When the sign is located on an authorized business vehicle and does not exceed ten (10)
square feet in size.
2. When the sign is located within the C-1, C-2, C-3, I-1, I-2, or MCD Zoning District, subject
to the following conditions.
a. Shall not exceed four (4) square feet in size.

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b. Shall not exceed six (6) feet in height, if freestanding.