Tourist home proposal sparks debate over rural zoning rules
June 20, 2024 | Fauquier County, Virginia
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In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposal for a tourist home at 3665 Creels Lane in the Scott District, a 114.53-acre property currently zoned for agriculture and conservation. The land is under a permanent Virginia Outdoors Foundation (VOF) conservation easement, with surrounding areas also designated for similar uses.
The applicant seeks to convert an existing five-bedroom residence into a tourist home, accommodating up to 10 guests. Amenities include an in-ground pool and a cabin by a farm pond, available for daytime use. The proposal includes parking for up to 10 vehicles in an existing paved area and garage, although staff recommended limiting guest vehicles to five to mitigate impacts on local roadways and shared driveways.
Access to the property is via a gravel road, approximately two miles from Hopewell Road, classified as a minor collector. The property does not have direct access to a major collector, necessitating a board finding related to road classification. The driveway is partially shared with a neighbor and includes both gravel and paved sections.
A caretaker, who lives about 12 miles from the property, will be available by phone when the tourist home is occupied. This arrangement deviates from past approvals, which typically required caretakers to reside within two miles. The commission may adjust this condition as deemed appropriate.
The proposal includes restrictions on occupancy, limiting rentals to single parties with no events permitted. Additionally, conditions regarding food service, noise, fireworks, and signage will be enforced, with site plan approval and necessary permits required before the tourist home can commence operations. The Virginia Outdoors Foundation has approved the use, provided there are no exterior alterations or signage related to the tourist home.
The applicant seeks to convert an existing five-bedroom residence into a tourist home, accommodating up to 10 guests. Amenities include an in-ground pool and a cabin by a farm pond, available for daytime use. The proposal includes parking for up to 10 vehicles in an existing paved area and garage, although staff recommended limiting guest vehicles to five to mitigate impacts on local roadways and shared driveways.
Access to the property is via a gravel road, approximately two miles from Hopewell Road, classified as a minor collector. The property does not have direct access to a major collector, necessitating a board finding related to road classification. The driveway is partially shared with a neighbor and includes both gravel and paved sections.
A caretaker, who lives about 12 miles from the property, will be available by phone when the tourist home is occupied. This arrangement deviates from past approvals, which typically required caretakers to reside within two miles. The commission may adjust this condition as deemed appropriate.
The proposal includes restrictions on occupancy, limiting rentals to single parties with no events permitted. Additionally, conditions regarding food service, noise, fireworks, and signage will be enforced, with site plan approval and necessary permits required before the tourist home can commence operations. The Virginia Outdoors Foundation has approved the use, provided there are no exterior alterations or signage related to the tourist home.
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