2025 Mass Rezoning Initiative

The City of Staunton is proposing a rezoning initiative to adjust zoning districts to reflect the continuing residential use of properties currently zoned for business or industrial use.

Upcoming Public Hearing with City Council: September 11, 2025 at 7:00 PM

At the August 21st Planning Commission Meeting, the Commission unanimously recommended approval to rezone 85 properties following a public hearing.

Background

Staunton first adopted zoning in 1924. A comprehensive rezoning in the 1960s established the basis of the current zoning map, which has generally served the city well. However, adjustments are needed to the extent and placement of some 1960s zoning districts to reflect the actual and continuing residential use of properties in areas zoned for business or industrial. The city began addressing this in 2010 with periodic mass rezonings of specific areas, including neighborhoods along West Beverley Street, Churchville Avenue, Englewood Drive, Springhill Road, N Augusta Street, N Coalter Street, and most recently in Uniontown.

Benefits of Rezoning

Houses continually used as residences but located in business-zoned areas are considered "existing or legally non-conforming" uses. This status disadvantages these residential properties because:

• Expansion requires special City Council permission (e.g., additions, sheds, garages).
• Lenders are often hesitant to refinance or finance purchases of non-residentially zoned homes.
• Assessment values can be lower if the house is used partially or wholly for business.
• Damage exceeding 50% of the house's value prohibits repair, requiring the property to revert to its designated zoning.

The city has identified several properties suitable for the upcoming mass rezoning initiative. Affected property owners will have a choice to opt out of the rezoning if they choose not to participate.

If you are a property owner that wishes to opt out of the rezoning, please call the Community Development Department at 540-332-3862, and ask to speak with either Tim Hartless or Meggie Taylor. 

A complete list of properties selected for eligibility can be found here: Mass Rezoning List of Eligible Properties

Use the search bar in the map below to search for a specific property.

Eligible properties have been outlined in blue. You can also use the sliding bar to compare the current vs. proposed zoning. 

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