AGENDA DATE: 8/5/2026
TITLE:
Title
Resolution of Intent to Evaluate a Potential Ordinance Regulating Intensive Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Facilities
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Staff requests that the Board consider adopting a Resolution of Intent to evaluate amendments to the Zoning Ordinance related to the regulation of intensive livestock, dairy, and poultry facilities.
ITEM TYPE: Regular Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Wall, Herrick, Tevendale, Svoboda
PRESENTER (S): Bart Svoboda
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: Virginia Code § 3.2-301 authorizes localities to reasonably regulate farm structures or agricultural and forestry practices within agricultural districts when such regulations are directly related to the health, safety, and general welfare of residents.
On July 15, 2026, the Board of Supervisors directed staff to bring forward a Resolution of Intent to examine whether an ordinance should be developed to regulate intensive livestock, dairy, and poultry operations.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Safety & Well-being - Nurture a safe and healthy community.
DISCUSSION: Approval of the Resolution of Intent (Attachment A) would initiate a formal review of potential regulatory approaches governing these facilities. This process may include evaluating applicable state authority, environmental and land-use considerations, potential impacts on public welfare, and consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance. Staff would subsequently return to the Board with findings and recommended options.
BUDGET IMPACT: Evaluation of potential ordinance amendments may require consultant services and staff time.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
If the Board is interested in regulating intensive livestock, dairy, and poultry operations, staff recommends that the Board adopt the Resolution of Intent attached to this report as Attachment A.
ATTACHMENTS:
Att. A - Proposed Resolution