AGENDA DATE: 8/6/2025
TITLE:
Title
TA-2025-02 Resolution of Intent - Structure height regulations in Industrial Districts
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Resolution of intent to amend structure height regulations in Industrial Districts
ITEM TYPE: Consent Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Wall, Herrick, Tevendale, Filardo, Fritz
PRESENTER (S): Bill Fritz
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: The zoning ordinance limits the height of structures in Industrial Districts to 65 feet. Limited exceptions exist for necessary mechanical appurtenances which would allow the maximum height to be 78 feet. No administrative or legislative provisions exist that would allow for an increase in the height limits.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Quality of Life - Encourage a vibrant community with economic and recreational opportunities that serve all community members.
DISCUSSION: Specialized manufacturing processes may require structure heights greater than currently permitted by-right. The height of structures may only be increased by a variance granted by the Board of Zoning Appeals. A variance may only be granted under the following circumstances: 1. If the requirements of the ordinance unreasonably restrict the utilization of the property; or 2. Granting the variance would alleviate a hardship due to a physical condition relating to the property. It is unlikely that any industrial use would meet these strict requirements. In order to permit modern industrial uses it may be appropriate to amend Chapter 18 of the Albemarle County Code to provide an administrative or legislative procedure to allow increased structure heights in the Industrial District.
BUDGET IMPACT: No budget impact is expected.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Board adopt the attached Resolution of Intent (Attachment A).
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A - Resolution of Intent