Chesterfield, September 18, 2025
News Summary
The Chesterfield Board of Supervisors has approved a new zoning ordinance aimed at modernizing the county’s land-use regulations. This ordinance reduces land-use districts from 24 to 14, promoting diverse residential construction and increasing affordable housing options. Key additions include designations for semi-urban neighborhoods, suburban communities, and mixed-use centers. To facilitate the transition, most existing zoning designations will convert automatically to the nearest new district. The ordinance retains agricultural spaces and introduces new commercial districts to foster a vibrant economy while maintaining rural character.
Chesterfield Board of Supervisors Approves New Zoning Ordinance
The Chesterfield Board of Supervisors has officially approved a new zoning ordinance on September 18, 2025, culminating a comprehensive project aimed at modernizing the county’s land-use regulations. This new ordinance is part of the Zoning Ordinance Modernization Project (ZOMod), which has been in development for several years and is designed to reflect current development trends while improving user-friendliness.
Key Changes to Land-Use Districts
One of the most significant changes introduced by the new ordinance is the reduction of land-use districts from 24 to 14. This streamlining effort will help clarify zoning policies and improve the development process. The ordinance promotes a diverse range of residential construction, including increased access to affordable housing options.
Several new designations are being added under the updated ordinance, including:
- Semi-Urban Neighborhood (SU) – Lot sizes spanning from 4,500 to 7,500 square feet, encouraging the integration of affordable housing.
- Suburban Community (SC) – Lots between 8,000 to 14,500 square feet aimed at developing quality single-family neighborhoods.
- Rural Community (RC) – Facilitates subdivisions with a minimum lot size of 5 acres in rural regions.
- Semi-Rural Neighborhood (SR) – A transitional zone for lots ranging from 0.5 to 2 acres.
- Alternative Residential (AR) – Supports innovative housing concepts with minimum lot areas of 1,500 square feet.
- Urban Residential (UR) – Designed for higher density residential developments adjacent to mixed-use centers.
- Mixed-Use Center (MU) – Allows for a combination of residential and commercial uses.
The new zoning ordinance will become effective in January 2026. To ease the transition, most existing zoning designations will automatically convert to the nearest new district, minimizing disruption for property owners.
Provisions for Property Owners and Developers
To further accommodate property owners, a five-year grace period has been established, allowing them to continue developing under the existing commercial and industrial zoning regulations, with the exception of data center projects. Enhancements to the buffering strategies between residential and commercial projects will also be implemented, promoting shared responsibilities across developments.
The ordinance introduces a proffer adjustment process, allowing developers to tailor their projects to lessen potential impacts on surrounding communities. In addition, a standardized amenities list is included to enrich recreational features and infrastructure in newly developed areas.
Retaining Agricultural Spaces and New Commercial Districts
While updating the zoning framework, the ordinance retains the Agricultural (A) designation and introduces new commercial districts specifically tailored for restaurants and shopping centers. This move aims to foster a vibrant economy while maintaining the area’s rural character.
Community Feedback and Future Steps
Public hearings conducted during the review process revealed mixed feedback. Some residents advocated for the ordinance, highlighting its potential to improve housing affordability and provide clarity in zoning policies. The ZOMod initiative commenced in 2021 with financial backing of $1 million and the support of planning consultants White & Smith, culminating in a planning commission recommendation in July after extensive community engagement.
Chesterfield’s last zoning update took place in the late 1990s; however, the existing content largely dates back to the 1970s. By aligning the new zoning regulations with the comprehensive plan updated in 2019, the ordinance aims to meet contemporary needs and expectations from residents and developers alike. Community members are encouraged to share their thoughts regarding the new zoning regulations as they transition into effect.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- Richmond BizSense: Chesterfield Supervisors Approve Zoning Ordinance
- Wikipedia: Zoning
- Virginia Mercury: Chesterfield Leaders Seek Community Feedback
- Google Search: Chesterfield Zoning Ordinance
- Wric: Chesterfield to Hold Meetings for Zoning Modernization Project
- Google Scholar: Zoning Modernization
- Richmond BizSense: Chesterfield Would Restrict Data Center Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zoning
- 12 On Your Side: Proposal Aims to Update Zoning Ordinance Chesterfield
- Google News: Chesterfield Zoning Updates
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