The Nottoway County Board of Supervisors approved special-exception requests on July 17 to allow manufactured homes on two rural parcels, subject to conditions, and discussed protections for a small, historic cemetery on one site.
The first request, from Sylvester and Mildred Green for property at 2533 Oaks Road (approx. 2 acres; tax-map parcel 31-86), would remove an existing residence and replace it with a manufactured home. Planning staff said the parcel is zoned Conservation and that staff recommended approval, adding a condition to require removal of four abandoned vehicles on the site before occupancy. The board approved the special exception; the planning commission had approved it 6-0.
The second request, from Barry and Nola Johnson for tax map 50-66 (approx. 2.162 acres), drew public comment from Clarence Hawks and others about an on-site cemetery. Hawks said the cemetery contains graves dating to the Civil War era and urged protections and maintained access. Planning staff cited Code of Virginia 57-27.1 regarding access to cemeteries on private property and told the board the planning commission had recommended approval with added conditions to protect the cemetery and ensure access. The Johnson applicants told the board they do not intend to disturb the cemetery and that they had marked the site.
Both special-exception approvals included conditions: removal of on-site abandoned vehicles and proof of well and septic permits before issuing occupancy. The board voted to approve the Greens' and Johnsons' requests; the Greens motion carried 5-0, and the Johnson approval passed after planning and public hearing and a motion by the board.
When the cemetery issue arose, staff explained that state law preserves the right of descendants and genealogists to access cemeteries on private land, though owners may limit hours or designate routes. The board asked staff to ensure conditions are enforced before occupancy permits are issued.