Bedford County BZA approves special exceptions for an Airbnb and guest/pool house, accepts training list

The Bedford County Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved multiple special-exception requests and accepted the board’s training list for fiscal year 2025–2026 at its meeting.

Staff presented an application from Harold Collinsworth for a special exception to use an existing home on Bottle Hollow Road as a short-term rental. Staff said the applicant "has met everything that he needs to do a Airbnb" subject to follow-up items: a fire-exit plan, verification of smoke detectors and confirmation of permitted occupant counts tied to bedrooms and septic capacity. The board approved the request with enumerated conditions to be completed, voting unanimously.

Separately, the board reviewed an application from James and Paula Simmons for a guest or pool house on CK Troxler Road (about 1.59 acres). Staff described site constraints — a steep drop affecting septic placement and a common gravel access drive — and noted the accessory structure requires a variance because it would sit in the front yard. No callers or neighbors raised objections; the board approved the special exception with restrictions.

The board also voted to accept a training list covering four hours for BZA members and 13 hours for staff for the 2025–2026 fiscal year.

For both special exceptions, staff will monitor completion of conditions and require submittal of the specified safety and compliance documentation before issuing final permits.