Planning commission endorses text amendment to allow utility/emergency towers above 199 feet

The Caroline County Planning Commission voted 5–0 to forward a proposed text amendment to the Board of Supervisors that would permit private radio or point‑to‑point communication towers used by public utilities, government entities or emergency services to exceed 199 feet in height with Board approval, not to exceed 300 feet.

Staff explained the amendment would add language clarifying that towers used for internal operations or emergency communications may exceed the 199‑foot limit with Board approval and would be measured to the top of the tower including any rooftop installations. Charlie Payne, representing Stack Infrastructure and Rappahannock Electric Cooperative interests, said the amendment is necessary for a pending application that includes a taller tower site and voiced support.

The commission's unanimous recommendation moves the text amendment to the Board of Supervisors for consideration and a public hearing.