PC 10-02-19 Meeting Agenda AGENDA
FREDERICK COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
The Board Room
Frederick County Administration Building
Winchester, Virginia
October 2, 2019
7:00 P.M. CALL TO ORDER TAB
1) Adoption of Agenda: Pursuant to established procedures, the Planning Commission
should adopt the Agenda for the meeting ....................................................................... (no tab)
2) July 17, 2019, and August 7, 2019 Meeting Minutes ............................................................ (A)
3) Committee Reports ......................................................................................................... (no tab)
4) Citizen Reports .............................................................................................................. (no tab)
INFORMATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS
5) Landscaping, buffers & screening, off-street parking and requirements for certain uses-
Discussion of a request by a Planning Commissioner to amend certain sections of Frederick
County Zoning Ordinance including: additional regulations for specific uses (“storage
facilities, self-service,” “tractor truck and tractor truck trailer parking,” “special event
facilities”), off-street parking, landscaping requirements, and buffers and screening
requirements.
Mr. Klein ................................................................................................................................. (B)
6) Telecommunications facilities, commercial. Discussion of a request by the County
Attorney to amend §165-2014.19 to permit commercial telecommunication small cell
facilities by-right in certain zoning districts and codify changes from the Code of
Virginia governing local regulation of such facilities.
Mr. Klein ............................................................................................................................... (C)
Other
Adjourn
Commonly Used Planning Agenda Terms
Meeting format
Citizen Comments – The portion of the meeting agenda offering an opportunity for the public to provide
comment to the Planning Commission on any items not scheduled as public hearing items.
Public Hearing– A specific type of agenda item, required by State law, which incorporates public comment as
a part of that item prior to Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors action. Public hearings are held for
items such as: Comprehensive Plan policies and amendments; Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance amendments;
and Rezoning and Conditional Use Permit applications. Following the Public Hearing, the Planning
Commission will take action on the item (see below).
Action Item–There are both public hearing and non-public hearing items on which the Planning Commission
takes action. Depending on the actual item, the Planning Commission may approve, deny, table, or forward a
recommendation to the Board of Supervisors regarding the agenda item. No public comment is accepted during
the Action Item portion of the agenda.
Information/Discussion Item– The portion of the meeting agenda where items are presented to the Planning
Commission for information and discussion. The Planning Commission may offer comments and suggestions,
but does not take action on the agenda item. No public comment is accepted during the Information/Discussion
Item portion of the agenda.
Planning Terminology
Urban Development Area or UDA – The UDA is the county’s urban growth boundary identified in the
Comprehensive Plan in which more intensive forms of residential development will occur. The UDA is an area
of the county where community facilities and public services are more readily available and are provided more
economically.
Sewer and Water Service Area or SWSA – The SWSA is the boundary identified in the Comprehensive Plan
in which public water and sewer is or can be provided. The SWSA is consistent with the UDA in many
locations; however the SWSA may extend beyond the UDA to promote commercial, industrial, and institutional
land uses in area where residential land uses are not desirable.
Land Use – Land Use is the nomenclature which refers to the type of activity which may occur on an area of
land. Common land use categories include: agricultural, residential, commercial, and industrial.
Zoning District - Zoning district refers to a specific geographic area that is subject to land use standards.
Frederick County designates these areas, and establishes policies and ordinances over types of land uses,
density, and lot requirements in each zone. Zoning is the main planning tool of local government to manage the
future development of a community, protect neighborhoods, concentrate retail business and industry, and
channel traffic.
Rezoning – Rezoning is the process by which a property owner seeks to implement or modify the permitted
land use activities on their land. A rezoning changes the permitted land use activities within the categories
listed above under Land Use.
Conditional Use Permit or CUP - A CUP allows special land uses which may be desirable, but are not always
appropriate based on a location and surrounding land uses. The CUP requested use, which is not allowed as a
matter of right within a zoning district, is considered through a public hearing process and usually contains
conditions to minimize any impacts on surrounding properties.
Ordinance Amendment – The process by which the County Code is revised. Often the revisions are the result
of a citizen request with substantial justification supporting the change. Amendments ultimately proceed
through a public hearing prior to the PC forwarding a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors.
County Bodies Involved
Board of Supervisors or BOS - Frederick County is governed by an elected Board of Supervisors composed of
seven members, one from each magisterial district, and one chairman-at-large. The Board of Supervisors is the
policy-making body of the county. Functions of the Board of Supervisors related to planning include making
land use decisions, and establishing growth and development policies.
Planning Commission or PC - The PC is composed of 13 members, two from each magisterial districts and one
at-large, appointed by the Board of Supervisors. The Planning Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the
Board of Supervisors which then takes final action on all planning, zoning, and land use matters.
Comprehensive Plans and Programs Committee or CPPC – The CPPC is a major committee of the PC whose
primary responsibility is to formulate land use policies that shape the location and timing of development
throughout the County. Included in the work are studies of specific areas to develop guidelines for future land
use within those areas. The CPPC also considers requests for amendments to the Comprehensive Plan.
Decisions by CPPC are then forwarded to the PC for consideration.
Development Review and Regulations Committee or DRRC – The DRRC is the second major committee of the
PC whose primary responsibilities involve the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan in the form of
Zoning and Subdivision ordinance requirements. Requests to amend the ordinances to the DRRC are made by
the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission, local citizens, businesses, or organizations. DRRC decisions
are also forwarded to the PC for consideration.
A
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3641
Minutes of July 17, 2019
MEETING MINUTES
OF THE
FREDERICK COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Held in the Board Room of the Frederick County Administration Building at 107 North Kent Street in
Winchester, Virginia on July 17, 2019.
PRESENT: Kevin Kenney, Chairman; Robert S. Molden, Opequon District; Gary R. Oates,
Stonewall District; William H. Cline, Stonewall District; Lawrence R. Ambrogi, Shawnee District; Greg
L. Unger, Back Creek District; J. Rhodes Marston, Back Creek District; Charles E. Triplett, Gainesboro
District; Alan L. Morrison, Member at Large; Kathleen Dawson, Red Bud District; and Erin L.
Swisshelm, Assistant County Attorney .
ABSENT: Christopher M. Mohn, Red Bud District; H. Paige Manuel, Shawnee District; and Roger L.
Thomas, Vice Chairman/Opequon District.
STAFF PRESENT: Michael T. Ruddy, Director; M. Tyler Klein, Senior Planner; Kathy Smith,
Secretary.
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Kenney called the July 17, 2019 meeting of the Frederick County Planning
Commission to order at 7:00 p.m. Chairman Kenney commenced the meeting by inviting everyone to
join in a moment of silence.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Upon motion made by Commissioner Oates and seconded by Commissioner Cline, the
Planning Commission unanimously adopted the agenda for this evening’s meeting.
MINUTES
Upon motion made by Commissioner Oates and seconded by Commissioner Cline, the
Planning Commission unanimously adopted the minutes from the May 1, 2019 and June 5, 2019
meetings.
-------------
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3642
Minutes of July 17, 2019
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Frederick Water – Mtg. 07/16/19
Commissioner Unger reported the Diehl Water Treatment plant excelled in its production
test; for the past 25 years, the Diehl plant was limited to withdrawing 3 mgd (million gall ons per day)
from the quarries based on the agreement with the Town of Stephen s City. As of June 12, 2019,
Frederick Water owns the quarry system, and the 3 mgd limitation has been eliminated. He continued, in
a recent 24-hour operation test, the Diehl plant produced 5.4 mgd, this is great news; the plant will
gradually increase its daily water projection and reduce the amount of water purchased from the City of
Winchester which will result in significant savings for Frederick Water’s customers. Commissioner
Unger reported, the Frederick Water Board authorized a contract to construct water lines to serve Orchard
View Elementary School. He explained, this action results in construction of two water lines between
Orchard View and the Diehl plant; one line will deliver raw well water to the Diehl plant to be processed
into finished water for customer use; the second line will deliver finished water to the school, enabling the
school to retire their on-site water treatment system. He noted, the effort will also connect the school
property’s existing fire hydrant to the public water system, ensuring reliable water service in the event of
a fire. Commissioner Unger shared the June operations report: customer base is over 16,303
connections; monthly water production averages 6.185 mgd; all quarries continue to enjoy recharge and
benefits from Frederick Water’s efficient water source management and are full; rainfall for June was
2.25” and the 12 month average is 4.6”.
Transportation Committee – Mtg. 07/24/19
Commissioner Oates reported the Committee discussed the SmartScale Application
Development; while the application window for the next round is approximately two years away, Staff
would like to begin development of the project list for the next round to be prepared and as competitive as
possible. He shared, Staff is seeking guidance on whether the Committee wishes to hold the
Transportation Forum this year and all the specifics. Commissioner Oates concluded, an update on the
County projects was given at the meeting.
Comprehensive Plans and Programs Committee – Mtg. 07/08/19
Commissioner Marston reported a lengthy discussion was held on CPPA #02-19 for
Woodside Business Park; no action was taken at this time and the Committee asked Staff to meet with the
County Attorney for further discussion on putting these acres into the SWSA.
Development Review and Regulations Committee – Mtg. 06/27/19
Commissioner Unger reported, the Committee discussed the following items: the
Chairman and Vice Chairman were reappointed; a summary was provided on a previous zoning ordinance
text amendments, discussed and recommended to go forward but did not receive support for a public
hearing by the Board of Supervisors. He continued, the Committee discussed a proposal to add a
definition for “Public Utilities” to the Zoning Ordinance which included an allowance for solar facilities
as a by-right use in certain Zoning Districts and new supplemental use regulations to include provisions
for the decommissioning of solar facilities as required under the Code of Virginia.
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3643
Minutes of July 17, 2019
Board of Supervisors – Mtg. 07/10/19
Board of Supervisors’ Liaison, Supervisor Trout reported CUP #03-19 for Arthur Sisk for
a landscape contracting business in the Gainesboro Magisterial District was approved. She noted the
Board of Supervisors has directed Planning Staff to look at CUP’s and provide more guidelines.
-------------
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Chairman Kenney called for citizen comments on any subject not currently on the
Planning Commission’s agenda or any item that is solely a discussion item for the Commission. No one
came forward to speak and Chairman Kenney closed the public comments portion of the meeting.
-------------
PUBLIC HEARING
Conditional Use Permit #04-19 for Jonathan DeHaven, submitted for a public garage with body
repair (custom car fabrication). The property is located at 4564 North Frederick Pike, Winchester,
Virginia and is identified with Property Identification Number 30-A-29A in the Gainesboro
Magisterial District.
Action – Recommend Approval
Mr. M. Tyler Klein, Senior Planner, reported this application was submitted for a public
garage with body repair (custom car part fabrication). Staff continued, the property is located at 4564
North Frederick Pike, Winchester, Virginia in the Gainesboro Magisterial District; the property is zoned
RA (Rural Areas) and the current land use is Residential . Staff noted, there is a single family detached
home on the property. Mr. Klein stated, the Applicant is seeking a Conditional Use Permit for a public
garage with body repair specifically for the fabrication of custom drag car chassis. He presented a
location map of the property. Mr. Klein explained, public garages are allowed in the RA Zoning District
and permitted with and approved CUP. Staff noted, no employees are proposed with this use, and
customers will drop-off and pick-up their vehicles; all work will be performed within an existing
building. Mr. Klein concluded, Staff recommends the following conditions:
1. All review agency comments shall be complied with at all times
2. An illustrative sketch plan shall be submitted to and approved by Frederick
County and all improvements completed prior to the establishment of the use.
3. All auto repair related activities, including storage of vehicles awaiting
service, shall occur entirely within an enclosed structure. Any exterior storage
of parts and equipment shall be screened from view by an opaque fence or
screen at least six (6) feet in height.
4. Hours of operation shall be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8
a.m. to noon on Saturdays and closed Sundays.
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3644
Minutes of July 17, 2019
5. Any proposed business sign shall conform to Cottage Occupation sign
requirements and shall not exceed four (4) square feet in size and five (5) feet
in height.
6. Any expansion or change of use shall require a new Conditional Use Permit.
Commissioner Oates commented and asked, in the past autobody shops generally
required any vehicles awaiting service be in a fenced opaque area; this CUP states it has to be inside the
building or structure, was this the Applicant’s request. Mr. Klein explained it was the Applicant’s
request; as part of their application narrative is stated that they would be storing all the vehicles under
service or awaiting service inside the structure.
Commissioner Unger asked is VDOT going to require the Applicant to put in a new
entrance. Mr. Klein referred to the VDOT comments; they will require the Applicant to apply for a
commercial entrance permit and recommend some upgrades to make sure there is sufficient access. He
noted, in this applications case the current entrance is a right in right out because of the divided roadway
and at the application for the permit VDOT will make their recommendations.
Mr. Jonathan DeHaven, the Applicant came forward and noted his work is building roll
cages and custom framework for drag cars and dirt cars. Commissioner Unger asked the Appli cant how
many vehicles he would likely get in one month. Mr. DeHaven stated he would have a car come in and
work on that for a month or two; when that car is picked up, he will notify the next customer that he is
ready for their car. He noted, there will not be any cars sitting outside of his shop. Commissioner Unger
commented, he is concerned VDOT may require expensive upgrades to the entrance and he feels this
would be excessive. Mr. DeHaven stated, VDOT told him he would need to pave back from the road 10
feet and he informed VDOT he wants to pave at least 40 feet back from the road.
Commissioner Morrison asked the Applicant if he would be doing any engine repair. Mr.
DeHaven commented he would not, and the vehicles will not have engines so they will either be pushed
on a trailer or winched on for transport.
Chairman Kenney called for anyone who wished to speak regarding this Public Hearing
to come forward at this time. No one came forward to speak and Chairman Kenney closed the public
comment portion of the hearing.
Upon motion made by Commissioner Triplett and seconded by Commissioner Morrison
BE IT RESOLVED, the Frederick County Planning Commission does hereby unanimously recommend
approval of Conditional Use Permit #04-19 for Jonathan DeHaven, submitted for a public garage with
body repair (custom car fabrication). The property is located at 4564 North Frederick Pike, Winchester,
Virginia and is identified with Property Identification Number 30-A-29A in the Gainesboro Magisterial
District.
-------------
Other
Mr. Michael T. Ruddy, Director, reported the Board of Supervisors has directed the
Planning Commission to review Conditional Use Permits within Frederick County and the intent is to
look at some of the uses and determine if the scale of the uses is appropriate; then it would go to the
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3645
Minutes of July 17, 2019
DRRC and prior to that feedback from the Planning Commission is necessary. Commissioner Oates
commented when doing this CUP review maybe they should look at the small items too and determine
whether they really need to be a CUP.
-------------
ADJOURNMENT
No further business remained to be discussed and a motion was made by Commissioner
Oates to adjourn the meeting. This motion was seconded by Commissioner Cline and unanimously
passed. The meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
Kevin W. Kenney, Chairman
____________________________
Michael T. Ruddy, Secretary
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3646
Minutes of August 7, 2019
MEETING MINUTES
OF THE
FREDERICK COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
Held in the Board Room of the Frederick County Administration Building at 107 North Kent Street in
Winchester, Virginia on August 7, 2019.
PRESENT: Kevin Kenney, Chairman; Robert S. Molden, Opequon District; Gary R. Oates,
Stonewall District; William H. Cline, Stonewall District; Lawrence R. Ambrogi, Shawnee District; H.
Paige Manuel, Shawnee District; Greg L. Unger, Back Creek District; J. Rhodes Marston, Back Creek
District; Charles E. Triplett, Gainesboro District; Alan L. Morrison, Member at Large; Christopher M.
Mohn, Red Bud District; Kathleen Dawson, Red Bud District; and Erin L. Swisshelm, Assistant County
Attorney .
ABSENT: Roger L. Thomas, Vice Chairman/Opequon District.
STAFF PRESENT: Michael T. Ruddy, Director; Candice E. Perkins, Assistant Director; Mark R.
Cheran, Zoning & Subdivision Administrator; M. Tyler Klein, Senior Planner; and Kathy Smith,
Secretary.
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Kenney called the August 7, 2019 meeting of the Frederick County Planning
Commission to order at 7:00 p.m. Chairman Kenney commenced the meeting by inviting everyone to
join in a moment of silence.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Upon motion made by Commissioner Oates and seconded by Commissioner Cline, the
Planning Commission unanimously adopted the agenda for this evening’s meeting with the notation that
one item was removed (REZ #01-19) Off Road Innovation.
-------------
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3647
Minutes of August 7, 2019
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Transportation Committee – Mtg. 7/29/19
Commissioner Oates reported the Committee heard from a resident about changing the
entrance of Brucetown Road because of truck traffic from the Carmeuse Company. Also discussed was
the truck restriction on Cedar Hill Road; it did not receive a good response from the Committee therefore
it was tabled for 90 days to see if the updated GPS can resolve the issue. Commissioner Oates concluded
the Transportation Forum location may be in the Board of Supervisors room and no date has been set.
Development Review and Regulations Committee – Mtg. 7/25/19
Commissioner Unger reported the Committee discussed their continued evaluation of a
proposal to amend the definition and supplemental use regulations for “Public Utilities”. This item will
return to the Committee for additional consideration at the August meeting. Also, the Committee briefly
discussed potential amendments to requirements for Conditional Use Permits (CUP), landscaping,
buffering, and regulations for specific uses. Staff is to further evaluate the proposed amendments and
bring them back to a future meeting for discussion.
City of Winchester – Mtg. 7/16/19
Commissioner Burnett, Winchester City Planning Commission Liaison, reported the
Commission approved the following: Rezoning’s of 5.08 acres at 2508 Papermill Road from Intensive
Industrial M-2 District to Commercial Industrial CM-1 District, 4.81 acres at 230 Hope Drive, 2310 and
2330 Valor Drive from Highway Commercial B-2 District to Highway Commercial B-2 District with
Planned Unit Development and 0.95 acres at 410 and 412 Smithfield Avenue from Medium Density
Residential MR District to Medium Density Residential MR District with Planned Unit Development
Overlay.
Board of Supervisors – Mtg. 7/10/19
Board of Supervisors’ Liaison, Supervisor Trout reported the approval of an Outdoor
Festival Permit request of Robert Bauserman for Fab Jam Board and an Outdoor Festival Permit request
for Concern Hotline’s 20th annual fish fry. A Public Hearing regarding a Quitclaim deed for tax parcel
number 49A04-1-K-19 and approval of Conditional Use Permit #03-19 for Arthur Nelson Sisk for a
Landscaping Contracting Business was approved
-------------
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Chairman Kenney called for citizen comments on any subject not currently on the
Planning Commission’s agenda or any item that is solely a discussion item for the Commission. No one
came forward to speak and Chairman Kenney closed the public comments portion of the meeting.
-------------
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3648
Minutes of August 7, 2019
PUBLIC HEARING
Rezoning #02-19 for CB Ventures, LLC., submitted by Greenway Engineering, Inc. to rezone
1.04+/- acres from the B2 (General Business) District to the B3 (Industrial Transition) District with
proffers. The property is located on the south side of Martinsburg Pike (Route 11) and the
northeast side of Amoco Lane (Route 839) at the southwest quadrant of Interstate 81. The property
is identified by Property Identification Number 43-A-48E in the Stonewall Magisterial District.
Action – Recommend Approval
Candice E. Perkins, Assistant Director, reported this is a request to rezone 1.04+/- acres
from the B2 (General Business) District to the B3 (Industrial Transition) District with proffers. She
continued, the property was rezoned from the B3 District to the B2 District in 2016 with the approval of
Rezoning #05-16. A location map was presented by Ms. Perkins. She noted, this Rezoning is for
Property Identification Number 43-A-48E only. The Applicant is seeking to amend the proffers that
prohibited the construction of metal buildings on the site and the construction of a pump station with
SCADA system be removed in addition to the Rezoning from B2 to B3. She concluded, the original
proffers still apply to the remainder of the site with Rezoning #05-16.
Mr. Evan Wyatt of Greenway Engineering, representing the Applicant highlighted
Rezoning #02-19. Mr. Wyatt noted that construction is underway at the property with an approved site
plan. The Applicant is putting in the onsite structures and improvements on Amoco Lane with a gravity
sewer lane with approval from Frederick Water. Mr. Wyatt noted, the reason for the rezoning is the
Applicant has a potential buyer for 1.04 +/- acres for the use of a tire & battery facility which is not
allowable use in B3 District. Mr. Wyatt continued, the Applicant has a carryover proffer request for
residents of Amoco Lane to request landscaping on their property; To date, three (3) landowners have
contacted the Applicant to have the improvements done that will take place in the Fall of 2019.
Chairman Kenney asked for clarification on the entrance to the proposed facility. Mr.
Wyatt explained the entrance would be on Amoco Lane.
Chairman Kenney called for anyone who wished to speak regarding this Public Hearing
to come forward at this time. No one came forward to speak and Chairman Ken ney closed the public
comment portion of the hearing.
Upon motion made by Commissioner Oates and seconded by Commissioner Cline
BE IT RESOLVED, the Frederick County Planning Commission does hereby unanimously recommend
approval of Rezoning #02-19 for CB Ventures, LLC, submitted by Greenway Engineering, Inc., to rezone
1.04+/- acres from the B2 (General Business) District to the B3 (Industrial Transition) District with
amendment to the proffers. The property is located on the south side of Martinsburg Pike (Route 11) and
the northeast side of Amoco Lane (Route 839) at the southwest quadrant of Interstate 81. The property is
identified by Property Identification Number 43-A-48E in the Stonewall District.
(Note: Commissioner Thomas was absent from the meeting.)
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3649
Minutes of August 7, 2019
Conditional Use Permit #06-19 for Landfall Lodge, submitted for establishment of a special event
facility in the RA (Rural Areas) Zoning District. The property is located at 350 Chestnut Grove
Road, Winchester, Virginia and are identified with Property Identification Numbers 30-A-50 and
30-A-50D in the Gainesboro Magisterial District.
Action – Recommend Approval
Commissioner Manuel would abstain from all discussion on this item for a possible
conflict of interest.
Mr. Tyler Klein, Senior Planner, reported this is a request for a special event facility at
350 Chestnut Grove Road in the RA (Rural Areas) with Property Identification Numbers 30-A-50 and 30-
30-A50D consisting of 188-acres with 150-acres protected in a conservation easement in the Gainesboro
District. Mr. Klein continued, of the two (2) parcels, which includes a single-family detached residence
and detached structures including a barn and cottages, he noted this Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is for a
special event center for weddings, business meetings, birthday parties, showers, reunions, charity events,
and other similar type of events. He presented a location and vicinity map of the property. Mr. Klein
reviewed the conditions as recommended by Staff:
1. All review agency comments shall be complied with at all times.
2. An illustrative sketch plan, in accordance with the requirements of Article VIII of the
Fredrick County Zoning Ordinance, shall be submitted to and approved by Frederick
County prior to the establishment of the use.
3. Building permits are required for any new building or structures.
4. Special events shall start no earlier than 8 a.m. and all events and related activities
shall conclude by midnight.
5. Special events may accommodate up to and not to exceed 250 persons.
6. Only the “main entrance” driveway associated with the address 350 Chestnut Grove
Road, shall be open to special event traffic. All other entrances to the property should
be restricted for private/residential/agricultural traffic only.
7. One (1) monument style sign with a maximum sign area not to exceed 50 square feet
(SF) and not to exceed 10 feet (FT) in height is permitted.
8. Any expansion or modification of this use will require the approval of a new CUP.
Chairman Kenney inquired where the other entrances to the property are located. Mr.
Klein explained the main entrance would be the only entrance used for event traffic. He directed everyone
to the location map to point out the other four (4) entrances to the property.
Mr. Lowell Henderson, the Applicant came forward to give a brief overview of the
requested CUP. Mr. Henderson thanked the Planning Commission for consideration of the CUP
application. Mr. Henderson continued, his goal is to ensure that continued revenue opportunities for his
children and generations to come offset the significant cost to maintain the property. After several charity
and family events they were approached by friends about renting the barn for other functions. Following
Frederick County Planning Commission Page 3650
Minutes of August 7, 2019
a complaint from a neighbor, Mr. Henderson was contacted by Mr. Mark Cheran, Zoning and Subdivision
Administrator and notified of a Zoning Amendment requiring any facility in the RA District to have a
CUP for any special events. Mr. Henderson addressed the concerns of neighbors as they plan to have
minimal impact.
Commissioner Unger complimented Mr. Henderson on communicating with his
neighbors about the Special Event Facility and the support given to the charity events.
Chairman Kenney asked Mr. Henderson how the other four (4) entrances to the property
will be blocked. Mr. Henderson responded that all entrances to the property have signs to direct traffic ,
traffic control will be in place, and the unused entrances will be blocked with cones.
Chairman Kenney called for anyone who wished to speak regarding this Public Hearing
to come forward at this time.
Jamie Marion, Executor and Power of Attorney for the estate at 236 Chestnut Grove
Road came forward with her concerns of traffic that the events generate. If an emergency vehicle is
needed to access the road no one could get through since it is a single la ne road. Ms. Marion also spoke
against the fact that neighbors are not always notified of all events taking place.
Betty Marion of 236 Chestnut Grove Road shared her concerns with traffic and the
privacy of residents being disturbed.
John Gavitt of 492 Chestnut Grove Road stated he supports the special event facility and
that he wants the Applicant to continue with support and dedication they show the youth of Frederick
County and the many events held for the charities.
Tina Crane of the Hunter Crane Foundation spoke on the generosity of the Applicants in
holding events for the Foundation at no cost. She continued, the support that they show the community
and youth of Frederick County is extraordinary.
No one else came forward to speak and Chairman Kenney closed the public comment
portion of the hearing.
Commissioner Oates commented he respects the neighbors with traffic concerns, and he
requested modification of condition #6 to restrict traffic to the main entrance and all other four (4)
entrances be gated and locked during events.
Commissioner Mohn supported the change of condition #6, to gate the other entrances to
the property which will lessen the impact to the neighbors. Mr. Klein gave clarification to the shared
entrances; in order to use those entrances, the property needs permission from the adjoining property
owners. The Applicants agreed to use the main entrances for the event center traffic. The other entrances
have signs and traffic control volunteers.
Mr. Henderson explained that he will install a gate at the noted entrance during the event
times to be restricted.
Upon motion made by Commissioner Triplett with the modification of condition #6, to
restrict the entrance with a gate during scheduled events and seconded by Commissioner Morrison
B
COUNTY of FREDERICK
Department of Planning and Development
540/ 665-5651
Fax: 540/ 665-6395
MEMORANDUM
TO: Frederick County Planning Commission
FROM: M. Tyler Klein, AICP, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: Ordinance Amendment – Landscaping, buffer & screening, off-street parking, &
requirements for certain uses.
DATE: September 27, 2019
This is a proposed amendment to Chapter 165 – Zoning Ordinance to “clean up” inconsistencies
within certain sections and to clarify or reduce requirements for certain uses. Specifically,
amendments are proposed to the following sections:
• §165-204.18 Storage facilities, self-storage.
The proposed changes correct landscaping and planting inconsistencies regarding plant
size in this section with other sections of the Zoning Ordinance and provides relief on
screening requirements that do not otherwise meet the intent of the section to “screen the
use”.
• §165-204.24 Tractor truck and tractor trailer truck parking.
The proposed changes prevent the siting of the above use adjacent to residential uses, while
enabling the location of these types of facilities where they are most appropriate (i.e.
adjacent to major roadways and/or in the vicinity of other business and industrial uses),
provides a consistent hard surface standard for the use (gravel parking) that is consistent
with the temporary nature of the use and, changes to this section also corrects
inconsistences with this section planting requirements with other sections of the Zoning
Ordinance.
• §165-204.30 Special event facilities.
The proposed changes provide clarity with certain practices in the County, specifically that
the Building Official (Department of Building Inspections) is responsible for determining
if a building or structure (existing or to-be-constructed) is agriculturally exempt from the
Virginia Building Code requirements or requires a building permit review.
• §165-202.01 Off-street parking; parking lots.
The proposed changes correct inconsistencies with the required width of driveways serving
parking lots in this section with other sections of the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance
and County Code (Fire Code).
• §165-203.01 Landscaping requirements.
The proposed changes correct inconsistencies with plant size in this section with other
sections of the Zoning Ordinance, further clarifies requirements to prohibit plantings from
being located within utility easements and eliminates certain plant species.
• §165-203.02 Buffer and Screening requirements.
The proposed changes seek to allow for the higher utilization of limited business and
industrial land by eliminating the buffer requirement where a VDOT classified interstate,
arterial, or collector roadway otherwise effectively creates “distance” between
business/industrial uses and adjacent residential uses. Front setbacks and parking area
landscaping requirements, which remains unchanged for the business and industrial zoning
district, further provides a “buffer” in lieu of zoning district buffer requirements. The
proposed changes also correct inconsistencies in this section with other sections of the
Zoning Ordinance.
This item was proposed by a Development Review and Regulations Committee (DRRC)
member/Board of Supervisors member and discussed by the DRRC at their July 25th, August 22nd
and September 26th regular meetings. At their September 26th meeting, members of the DRRC
expressed concerns in reducing the minimum plant size and height. However, the committee also
noted that these were only minimum requirements and could be exceeded. The DRRC also noted
the sentence “These uses may be temporary” under paragraph one for §165-204.24 Tractor truck
and tractor trailer truck parking was unlcear or unexact. The DRRC generally agreed with the
proposed changes, and the item was forwarded to the Planning Commission for discussion.
The attached document shows the existing ordinance with the proposed changes supported by the
DRRC (with bold italic for text added). Staff is seeking direction from the Planning
Commission on this Zoning Ordinance text amendment.
Attachment: 1. Revised ordinance with additions shown in bold underlined italics.
MTK/pd
Revised 8/26/19
Page 1 of 7
ARTICLE II
Supplementary Use Regulations; Parking; Buffers; and Regulations for Specific Uses
Part 204
Additional Regulations for Specific Uses
§ 165-204.18. Storage facilities, self-service.
F. Self-storage facilities shall meet the following landscaping or screening requirements:
1) Facilities located in the B-2 Business General District shall be have all overhead doors and loading
areas completely screened around the perimeter of the property by a double row of evergreen
trees that are staggered and planted a maximum of eight twelve feet off center and are a minimum
of six four feet in height when planted.
2) Facilities located in the B-3 Industrial Transition District or the M-1 Light Industrial District shall
be required to landscape the yard area within the front yard setback adjacent to public streets and
residences to provide for a double row of evergreen trees that are staggered and planted a maximum
of eight twelve feet off center. The side and rear yards shall be planted with a single row of
evergreen or deciduous trees that are planted a maximum of 40 feet off ce nter. All trees shall be a
minimum of six four feet in height at the time of planting.
3) Facilities located on parcels that are within a master planned industrial park or office park shall be
required to landscape the perimeter of the facility with a single row of evergreen or deciduous trees
that are planted a maximum of 40 feet off center. All trees shall be a minimum of six four feet in
height at the time of planting.
4) The required planting of all trees described under this Subsection F shall occur in an area that
is between the adjoining property boundary line and the placement of security fencing. The
installation of an opaque wall or fence that is a minimum of six feet in height may substitute for
required landscaped areas in all zoning districts. A solid building wall, free of windows or doors,
is not required to be screened.
Revised 8/26/19
Page 2 of 7
ARTICLE II
Supplementary Use Regulations; Parking; Buffers; and Regulations for Specific Uses
Part 204
Additional Regulations for Specific Uses
§ 165-204.24. Tractor truck and tractor truck trailer parking.
Tractor truck and/or tractor truck trailer parking facilities in the B3 (Industrial Transition), M1 (Light
Industrial) and M2 (Industrial General) Zoning Districts permitted as a primary use with a conditional use
permit. The facilities shall not be located adjacent to residential uses. These uses may be temporary.
These lots shall meet the following conditions:
A. All areas utilized for the parking of tractor trucks shall meet the requirements of § 165-202.01D.
Areas utilized for and the storage of trailers may utilize a gravel surface.
B. All paved and gravel surfaces shall be properly maintained to ensure that dirt, mud, gravel or the
like is not distributed onto roadways.
C. No inoperable tractor trucks or damaged/salvage trailers, or unlicensed trailers or cargo/storage
containers shall be parked or stored on the site.
D. Fuel sales shall not be permitted.
E. Maintenance of trucks and trailers shall not be permitted.
F. Facilities shall be required to landscape the yard area within the front setback to provide for a
double row of evergreen trees that are staggered and planted a maximum of twelve feet on
center. (minimum of two different species). The on-center distance between each tree in the
staggered double row shall not exceed the widest width of the selected evergreen trees. At no
point shall the offset between each evergreen tree planted in the staggered double row be less
than 90°. The side and rear yards shall be planted with a single row of evergreen trees that are
planted a maximum of 40 feet on center. All trees shall be a minimum of six four feet in height at
the time of planting. The Board of Supervisors may allow for alternative landscaping based on
topography and/or adjacent land uses.
G. A site plan in accordance with the requirements of Article VIII shall be submitted to and
approved by Frederick County.
Revised 8/26/19
Page 3 of 7
ARTICLE II
Supplementary Use Regulations; Parking; Buffers; and Regulations for Specific Uses
Part 204
Additional Regulations for Specific Uses
§ 165-204.30 Special event facilities.
Special events facilities, where allowed in the RA (Rural Areas) District, shall be subject to the following
requirements:
A. An illustrative sketch plan in accordance with the requirements of Article VIII shall be submitted
with the conditional use permit application. This plan shall identify access for the facility, the
location of all parking areas, the location and square footage for all structure(s) to be used, and
the location of sewage disposal facilities.
B. All structures associated with a special events facility shall require a building permit. review and
approval by the Building Official.
C. All parking spaces and travel aisles shall be graveled. The Board of Supervisors may require
through the conditional use permit process that all travel aisles and/or parking spaces be paved
with a minimum double prime and seal or alternative dust-free surface.
D. Portable toilets shall be permitted for special event facilities, provided that they are screened from
all adjoining properties and roads by topography, structures or new or existing landscaping.
E. Special events facilities that share a private access easement with another property owner/s must
show the easement allows a use of this type or written permission must be obtained by the sharing
parties.
Revised 8/26/19
Page 4 of 7
ARTICLE II
Supplementary Use Regulations; Parking; Buffers; and Regulations for Specific Uses
Part 202
Off-Street Parking, Loading and Access
§ 165-202.01 Off-street parking; parking lots
D. Parking lots.
8) Entrance requirements. In no case shall a parking lot be approved which requires that vehicles
back from parking spaces onto public roads. All parking lots shall be provided access to a public
road using an entrance which meets all requirements of the Frederick County Code and the
Virginia Department of Transportation. The width of driveways serving the parking lot shall not
be less than 24 20 feet for two-way traffic, 20 feet for fire lanes, and 12 feet for one-way traffic.
Revised 8/26/19
Page 5 of 7
ARTICLE II
Supplementary Use Regulations; Parking; Buffers; and Regulations for Specific Uses
Part 203
Buffers and Landscaping
§ 165-203.01. Landscaping requirements.
B. Plant selection, planting procedure and maintenance.
1) Plant selection. Based on the type of landscaping, required trees and shrubs shall be selected from
the table of acceptable trees and shrubs shown below.
Types of Landscaping
Acceptable Trees and Shrubs
Common Name Scientific Name Types of Landscaping
Permitted
Leyland Cypress Cupressocyparis x leylandii Screen, ornamental
Editor’s Note: Bradford Pears and all varieties of ornamental flowering pears are prohibited from being
used to fulfill planting or substitute planting requirements.
2) Planting procedure. All required trees and shrubs shall meet the specifications and procedures
established by the American Nursery and Landscape Association.
a) All trees shall be planted no closer than three feet to the edge of sidewalks, curb or
other pavement.
b) Deciduous trees shall be a minimum of two 1.25-inch caliper at the time of planting.
c) Only single-stem trees shall be planted as street trees.
d) Evergreen trees shall be a minimum of four feet in height at the time of planting.
Shrubs shall be a minimum three-gallon container at the time of planting. In addition
to the three-gallon container requirement, parking lot headlight screening shrubs
shall be a minimum of 36 inches in height at time of planting (unless topography
allows a reduction to maintain 36” from pavement to top of shrub), and buffer
shrubs shall be a minimum of 18 inches in height at time of planting. Spacing of
parking lot screening shrubs shall be no greater than four feet on center.
e) Only trees having a mature height of less than 20 feet shall be located under overhead
utility lines. Trees shall not be planted within easements for water, sewer, electric,
or gas.
f) Measurement of size. Caliper is measured six inches above the ground up to and
including four-inch caliper size and 12 inches above the ground for larger sizes.
Diameter at breast height (dbh) will be measured at the height of 54 inches from the
base of the trunk or as otherwise allowed in the Guide for Plant Appraisal.
Revised 8/26/19
Page 6 of 7
ARTICLE II
Supplementary Use Regulations; Parking; Buffers; and Regulations for Specific Uses
Part 203
Buffers and Landscaping
§ 165-203.02. Buffer and screening requirements.
A. Distance buffers. Distance buffers are based on the nature of an activity and its proximity to an activity
of a different nature. They are linear distances measured from property lines inward. Part of the buffer
must be inactive and part may be active. The inactive portion begins at the adjoining property line, as
shown in the example diagrams.
1) Inactive distance buffer. This portion of a buffer area permits no activity except the necessary
utility functions provided by transmission lines, underground conduits, stormwater management,
sidewalks, trails, etc.
2) Active distance buffer. This portion of a buffer area may not be encroached by a building or other
principal structure or activity. However, accessory activities, such as parking, are permitted in
this area. Active buffers shall not contain road rights-of-way.
3) Wherever proposed developments are adjacent to or within 1,000 feet of the boundaries of
existing uses, the Board of Supervisors may require increased or additional distance buffers to
separate different uses to achieve the intentions of this section.
B. Screening. Screening is designed to work with distance buffers to lessen the impact of noise or visual
interaction between adjacent activities. There are two levels of screening: landscape screening and full
screening. The higher the level of screening provided, the lower the level of distance buffer required. The
example diagrams show how this works.
1) Landscape screening. A landscape screen consists of a totally landscaped area easement at least
10 feet in depth; plantings are encouraged to be spaced appropriately within the inactive buffer.
Within the area easement, there shall be a minimum landscaping density of three plants per 10
linear feet. The buffer shall consist of a combination of 1/3 deciduous trees, 1/3 evergreen trees
and 1/3 shrubs. Deciduous trees shall be planted at a minimum of two1.25-inch caliper, evergreen
trees shall be a minimum of four feet in height, and shrubs shall be 18 inches in height at time of
planting.
2) Full screen. A full screen provides all the elements of a landscape screen and also includes a six-
foot-high, opaque hedge, fence, wall, mound, or berm., or an additional two rows of evergreen
trees that are six feet tall at time of planting. A fifty-foot strip of mature woodlands may be
allowed as a full screen.
3) Wherever proposed developments are adjacent to existing uses, the Board of Supervisors may
require additional landscaping, landscaped areas, or landscaped easements to separate different
uses and to achieve the intentions of this section.
D. Zoning district buffers. Buffers shall be placed on land to be developed when it adjoins land in certain
different zoning districts.
Revised 8/26/19
Page 7 of 7
1) Buffers shall be provided on the land to be developed according to the categories in the following
tables:
a) Buffer categories:
2) If a lot being developed is adjacent to developed land which would normally be required to be
provided with a buffer but which does not contain the buffer, the required buffer shall be
provided on the lot being developed. The buffer to be provided shall be of the larger category
required on either the lot being developed or the adjacent land. Such buffer shall be in place of
the buffer normally required on the lot being developed. The buffer may include required
setbacks or buffers provided on the adjacent land. Whenever land is to be developed in the B1,
B2, B3, OM, M1 or M2 Zoning District that is adjacent to a state road with a right-of-way with
a designated functional classification of interstate, arterial or collector as approved by the
Virginia Department of Transportation, zoning district buffers shall not be required along the
road.
3) The Board of Supervisors may grant a waiver to reduce the required buffer distance requirements
between land primarily used for residential purposes and the B-1 (Neighborhood, Business) or B-
2 (Business, General) Zoning District with the consent of the adjacent (affected) property owners.
Should a waiver be granted by the Board of Supervisors, the distance requirements of § 165-
203.02D(1)(a) may be reduced, provided that the full screening requirements of this section are
met.
4) The Zoning Administrator may waive any or all of the requirements for the zoning district buffers
on a particular site plan when all uses shown on the site plan are allowed in the zoning district in
which the development is occurring and in the adjoining zoning districts.
5) The Zoning Administrator may waive, reduce and/or modify buffer yard requirements (distance
and landscaping) if, in his opinion, the topography of the lot providing the buffer yard and the lot
being protected is such that the required yard would not be effective. The buffer may also be
modified to maintain highway sight distances.
6) Land proposed to be developed in the B3, OM, M1 or M2 Zoning District OM Office-
Manufacturing Park District, the M1 Light Industrial District and the M2 Industrial General
District may be permitted to have a reduced buffer distance that is consistent with the required
side or rear building setback line, provided that the following requirements are met:
a) The property to be developed with a reduced buffer distance is part of an approved
master planned industrial park.
b) There are no primary or accessory uses within the reduced buffer distance area, including
driveways, access drives, outdoor storage areas, parking areas, staging areas, loading
areas and outdoor dumpster areas. All-weather surface fire lanes necessary to meet the
requirements of Chapter 90, Fire Prevention, of the Code of Frederick County, Virginia,
shall be exempt from this performance standard.
c) A full screen is required to be created within the reduced buffer distance area which shall
be comprised of a continuous earth berm that is six feet higher in elevation than the
highest elevation within the reduced buffer distance area and a double row of evergreen
trees that are a minimum of six feet in height and planted a maximum of eight feet from
center to center.
C
COUNTY of FREDERICK
Department of Planning and Development
540/ 665-5651
Fax: 540/ 665-6395
MEMORANDUM
TO: Frederick County Planning Commission
FROM: M. Tyler Klein, AICP, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: Ordinance Amendment – Telecommunications Facilities, Commercial
DATE: September 27, 2019
Following changes in state law in 2017 and 2018 regarding zoning rules for wireless infrastructure
and following Board member requests for ordinance amendments to enable better provision of
internet services in underserved areas of the County. Staff has prepared a revision to the Zoning
Ordinance provisions regarding telecommunications facilities.
Staff notes the proposed revision includes changes to two (2) definitions and changes Additional
Regulations for Specific Uses outlined in §165-204.19. With respect to §165-204.19, the changes
are wholesale, though some of the existing section language is carried over to the revision. Because
much of the revised language does result from state law provisions, state law references are
included, for informational purposes, in brackets, throughout the revision.
The proposed changes enable smaller commercial telecommunications facilities in certain zoning
districts by-right in order to enable better internet service to underserved areas of the County (such
as Shawneeland). Further, the proposed changes codify changes to the Code of Virginia, which
created a two-track process for approval of telecommunication facilities. The legislation (attached)
treats certain, defined small scale facilities as “administrative review-eligible projects” that a
locality must permit in any zoning district, without the requirement of a Conditional Use Permit.
This would enable “small cell facilities,” structures under 50-feet (FT) in height, or co-location of
a wireless facility on an existing structure to be sited administratively. The legislation also revamps
the rules for larger projects (such as telecommunication monopoles), what it calls “standard
process projects”. These types of facilities would continue to be permitted through the County’s
Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process. The proposed text amendment addresses the above
legislation. Finally, the proposed changes would enable telecommunications towers as “allowed
uses” i.e. by-right in the OM (Office-Manufacturing Park) and HE (Higher Education) Zoning
Districts, consistent with the allowed uses for the B3 (Industrial Transition) and MS (Medical
Support) Zoning Districts.
This item was proposed by the County Attorney and discussed by the DRRC at their September
26th regular meeting. The DRRC agreed with the proposed changes and the item was forwarded to
the Planning Commission for discussion.
The attached document shows the existing ordinance with the proposed changes supported by the
DRRC (with bold italic for text added). Staff is seeking direction from the Planning
Commission on this Zoning Ordinance text amendment.
Attachments: 1. Revised ordinance with additions shown in bold underlined italics.
2. Code of Virginia, Article 7.2
MTK/pd
Revised 9/18/19
Page 1 of 7
ARTICLE I
General Provisions; Amendments; and Conditional Use Permits
Part 101
General Provisions
§ 165-101.02 Definitions and word usage.
COMMERCIAL TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITY, COMMERCIAL
A structure Infrastructure, including the towers, antennas, panels, microwave dishes, receiving dishes,
equipment building, other transmitting and receiving components and other accessory structures, used for
the wireless electromagnetic transmission of information, excluding structures utilized as satellite earth
stations and structures utilized for amateur or recreational purposes such as ham radio or citizen band
radio.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS TOWERS
A structure, including the tower, antennas, panels, microwave dishes, receiving dishes, equipment
building, other transmitting and receiving components and other accessory structures, used for the
wireless electromagnetic transmission of information, excluding structures utilized as satellite earth
stations and structures utilized for amateur or recreational purposes such as ham radio or citizen band
radio. [Term effectively superseded by definitions in Va. Code § 15.2-2316.3]
Revised 9/18/19
Page 2 of 7
ARTICLE II
Supplementary Use Regulations; Parking; Buffers; and Regulations for Specific Uses
Part 204
Additional Regulations for Specific Uses
§ 165-204.19. Telecommunication facilities, commercial.
A. Definitions. The terms used in this section shall have the same meanings as set out in Virginia
Code Section 15.2-2316.3, unless the context requires a different meaning.
B. Administrative review-eligible projects.
1. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter, but subject to the requirements of this
subsection, the following shall be permitted in all zoning districts:
a. any small cell facility [Va. Code § 15.2-2316.4];
b. any structure that is not more than 50 feet above ground level, provided that the structure
with attached wireless facilities is (i) not more than 10 feet above the tallest existing utility
pole located within 500 feet of the structure within the same public right-of-way or within
the existing line of utility poles; (ii) not located within the boundaries of a local, state, or
federal historic district; and (iii) designed to support small cell facilities [Va. Code §§ 15.2-
2316.3 & 15.2-2316.4:1(A)]; or
c. co-location of a wireless facility on the existing structure of a wireless facility that is not a
small cell facility [Va. Code §§ 15.2-2316.3 & 15.2-2316.4:1(A)].
2. Any person seeking to install a facility or structure identified in paragraph 1 of this subsection
shall make application to the Zoning Administrator, accompanied by payment of a fee of $100
each for up to five facilities or structures on the same application and $50 each for each
additional facility or structure on the same application. [Va. Code § 15.2-2316.4(B)(2)] The
application shall be subject to consideration as follows:
a. The Zoning Administrator shall approve or disapprove the application within 60 days of
receipt of the complete application. Within 10 days after receipt of an application and a
valid electronic mail address for the applicant, the Zoning Administrator shall notify the
applicant by electronic mail whether the application is incomplete and specify any missing
information; otherwise, the application shall be deemed complete. Any disapproval of the
application shall be in writing and accompanied by an explanation for the disapproval.
The 60-day period may be extended by the Zoning Administrator in writing for a period not
to exceed an additional 30 days. The application shall be deemed approved if the Zoning
Administrator fails to act within the initial 60 days or an extended 30-day period. [Va.
Code § 15.2-2316.4(B)(1)]
b. The Zoning Administrator shall only deny approval for the facility or structure on account
of: (i) material potential interference with other pre-existing communications facilities or
with future communications facilities that have already been designed and planned for a
specific location or that have been reserved for future public safety communications
facilities, or (ii) the public safety or other critical public service needs. Otherwise, the
Zoning Administrator shall approve the facility or structure and the facility or structure
Revised 9/18/19
Page 3 of 7
does not require approval from the Planning Commission or the Board of Supervisors.
[Va. Code § 15.2-2316.4(B)(4)]
c. The applicant may voluntarily submit, and the Zoning Administrator may accept,
conditions that address potential visual or aesthetic effects resulting from the placement,
pursuant to this subsection, of a facility or structure. [Va. Code § 15.2-2316.4(B)(5)]
C. Standard process projects.
1. Except as provided in subsection B, no wireless facility or wireless support structure shall be
sited, constructed, or operated except pursuant to a conditional use permit issued through the
process defined in Part 103 of Article I of this Chapter. The issuance of a conditional use
permit for the siting, construction, and operation of a wireless facility is permitted within the
zoning districts specified in this Chapter, provided that, pursuant to Virginia Code § 15.2-
2232(A), the general location or approximate location, character, and extent of such facilities
are substantially in accord with the adopted Comprehensive Plan or part thereof and that
adjoining properties, surrounding residential properties, land use patterns, scenic areas, and
properties of significant historic value are not negatively impacted. [based on current intro to
County Code § 165-204.19]
2. Any person seeking to install a facility or structure pursuant to this subsection shall make
application to the Zoning Administrator, accompanied by payment of a fee of $7,000. [Va.
Code § 15.2-2316.4:1(B)(2) (“the fee shall not exceed the actual direct costs to process the
application, including permits and inspection”)] The application shall be subject to
consideration as follows and include the indicated information:
a. The Board of Supervisors shall approve or disapprove the application within 150 days of
receipt of the complete application by the Zoning Administrator or such shorter period as
required by federal law, unless the applicant and the Board agree to a longer period for
approval or disapproval of the application. Within 10 days after receipt of an application
and a valid electronic mail address for the applicant, the Zoning Administrator shall notify
the applicant by electronic mail whether the application is incomplete and specify any
missing information; otherwise, the application shall be deemed complete. [Va. Code §
15.2-2316.4:1(C)]
b. Information to be included with application:
i. A map depicting the search area used in siting the proposed facility or structure [Va.
Code § 15.2-2316.4:2(D); based on current 165-204.19(A)(2)];
ii. Identification of all service providers and commercial telecommunications facility
infrastructure within the search area [Va. Code § 15.2-2316.4:2(D); based on current
165-204.19(A)(3)];
iii. Confirmation that attempts to co-locate on existing structures have been made and, if
such attempts were unsuccessful, the reasons so [Va. Code § 15.2-2316.4:2(D); based
on current 165-204.19(A)(3)];
iv. Documentation issued by the Federal Communications Commission indicating that
the proposed facility is in compliance with the Federal Communications
Commission’s established ANSI/IEEE standards for electromagnetic field levels and
radio frequency radiation [based on current 165-204.19(A)(4)];
v. An affidavit signed by the landowner and by the owner of the facility or structure
stating that they are aware that either or both of them may be held responsible for the
Revised 9/18/19
Page 4 of 7
removal of the facility or structure as stated in subsection E [based on current 165-
204.19(A)(5)]; and
vi. The applicant may voluntarily submit, and the Board may accept, conditions that
address potential visual or aesthetic effects resulting from the placement of the
facility or structure. [Va. Code § 15.2-2316.4:2(C)]
3. If the Board of Supervisors grants a conditional use permit under this subsection, the following
standards shall then apply to any property on which a wireless facility or wireless support
structure is sited, in order to promote orderly development and mitigate the negative impacts to
adjoining properties, residential properties, land use patterns, scenic areas, and properties of
significant historic value:
a. The Board may reduce the required setback distance for the wireless facility or wireless
support structure as required by § 165-201.03(B)(8) of this Code if it can be demonstrated
that the location is of equal or lesser impact. When a reduced setback is requested for a
distance less than the height of the tower, a certified Virginia engineer shall provide
verification to the Board that the wireless facility or wireless support structure is designed,
and will be constructed, in a manner that if the wireless facility or wireless support
structure collapsed the wireless facility or wireless support structure will be contained in an
area around the wireless facility or wireless support structure with a radius equal to or
lesser than the setback, measured from the center line of the base of the wireless facility or
wireless support structure. In no case shall the setback distance be reduced to less than 1/2
the distance of the height of the wireless facility or wireless support structure.
b. Monopole-type construction shall be required for any new wireless facility or wireless
support structure. The Board may allow lattice-type construction when existing or planned
residential areas will not be impacted and when the site is not adjacent to identified historic
resources.
c. No more than two signs shall be permitted on any wireless facility or wireless support
structure. Such signs shall be limited to 1.5 square feet in area and shall be posted no
higher than 10 feet above grade.
d. When lighting is required for a wireless facility or wireless support structure, dual lighting
shall be utilized which provides daytime white strobe lighting and nighttime red pulsating
lighting unless otherwise mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration or the Federal
Communications Commission. Strobe lighting shall be shielded from ground view to
mitigate illumination to neighboring properties. Equipment buildings and other accessory
structures operated in conjunction with the wireless facility or wireless support structure
shall utilize infrared lighting and motion-detector lighting to prevent continuous
illumination.
e. Every wireless facility and wireless support structure shall be constructed with materials of
a galvanized finish or be of a non-contrasting blue or gray unless otherwise mandated by
the Federal Aviation Administration or the Federal Communications Commission.
f. Every wireless facility and wireless support structure shall be adequately enclosed to
prevent access by persons other than employees of the service provider. Appropri ate
landscaping and opaque screening shall be provided to ensure that equipment buildings
and other accessory structures are not visible from adjoining properties, roads, or other
rights-of-way.
[the entirety of the above subsection C(3) is based on current 165-204.19(B)]
4. If the Board of Supervisors denies a conditional use permit under this subsection, the Board
Revised 9/18/19
Page 5 of 7
shall:
a. Provide applicant with a written statement of the reasons for the denial [Va. Code § 15.2-
2316.4:1(E)(1)];
b. Identify any modifications of which the County is aware that would permit it to approve the
conditional use permit [Va. Code § 15.2-2316.4:1(E)(2)]; and
c. Have supporting substantial record evidence in a written record publicly released within 30
days of denial [Va. Code § 15.2-2316.4:1(F)(2)].
D. Maintenance of existing facilities and/or structures and replacement of existing facilities and/or
structures within a 6-foot perimeter with substantially similar or same size or smaller facilities
and/or structures is exempt from fees and permitting requirements under this section. [Va. Code §
15.2-2316.4:3(A)]
E. Any facility or structure permitted by this section that is not operated or used for a continuous
period of 12 months shall be considered abandoned, and the owner of such facility or structure
shall remove same within 90 days of receipt of notice from the Frederick County Department of
Planning and Development. If the facility or structure is not removed within the ninety-day period,
the County may remove the facility and a lien may be placed to recover expenses. [Va. Code §
15.2-2316.4(B)(6); based on current County Code § 165-204.19(B)(7)]
The intent of this section is to ensure that the siting of commercial telecommunication facilities occurs
through the conditional use permit public hearing process defined in Article I, Part 103 of this chapter.
Commercial telecommunication facilities that locate on existing structures and towers shall be exempt
from the conditional use permit requirement. The siting of commercial telecommunication facilities is
permitted within the zoning districts specified in this chapter, provided that residential properties, land
use patterns, scenic areas and properties of significant historic value are not negatively impacted.
A. Information required as part of the conditional use permit application shall include, but not be limited
to, the following:
(1) A map depicting the search area used in siting each proposed commercial communications
facility.
(2) Identification of all service providers and commercial telecommunication facility infrastructure
within a proposed search area. The applicant shall provide confirmation that an attempt to
collocate on an existing telecommunication facility has been made.
(3) Information demonstrating that the commercial telecommunication facility is in compliance
with the Federal Communication Commissions established ANSI/IEEE standards for
electromagnetic field levels and radio frequency radiation.
(4) An affidavit signed by the landowner stating that he/she is aware that he/she may be held
responsible for the removal of the commercial telecommunications facility as stated in § 165-
204.19B(7).
B. The following standards shall apply to any property in which a commercial telecommunication
facility is sited, in order to promote orderly development and mitigate the negative impacts to
adjoining properties:
Revised 9/18/19
Page 6 of 7
(1) The Board of Supervisors may reduce the required setback distance for commercial
telecommunication facilities as required by § 165-201.03B(8) of this chapter if it can be
demonstrated that the location is of equal or lesser impact. When a reduced setback is requested
for a distance less than the height of the tower, a certified Virginia engineer shall provide
verification to the Board of Supervisors that the tower is designed, and will be constructed, in a
manner that if the tower collapses for any reason the collapsed tower will be contained in an
area around the tower with a radius equal to or lesser than the setback, measured from the
center line of the base of the tower. In no case shall the setback distance be reduced to less than
1/2 the distance of the tower height. Commercial telecommunication facilities affixed to existing
structures shall be exempt from setback requirements, provided that they are located no closer
to the adjoining property line than the existing structure.
(2) Monopole-type construction shall be required for new commercial telecommunication towers.
The Board of Supervisors may allow lattice-type construction for new telecommunication
towers when existing or planned residential areas will not be impacted and when the site is not
adjacent to identified historical resources.
(3) Advertising shall be prohibited on commercial telecommunication facilities except for signage
providing ownership identification and emergency information. No more than two signs shall
be permitted. Such signs shall be limited to 1.5 square feet in area and shall be posted no higher
than 10 feet above grade.
(4) When lighting is required on commercial telecommunication facility towers, dual lighting shall
be utilized which provides daytime white strobe lighting and nighttime red pulsating lighting
unless otherwise mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration or the Federal
Communications Commission. Strobe lighting, shall be shielded from ground view to mitigate
illumination to neighboring properties. Equipment buildings and other accessory structures
operated in conjunction with commercial telecommunication facility towers shall utilize
infrared lighting and motion-detector lighting to prevent continuous illumination.
(5) Commercial telecommunication facilities shall be constructed with materials of a galvanized
finish or painted a noncontrasting blue or gray unless otherwise mandated by the Federal
Aviation Administration or the Federal Communication Commission.
(6) Commercial telecommunication facilities shall be adequately enclosed to prevent access by
persons other than employees of the service provider. Appropriate landscaping and opaque
screening shall be provided to ensure that equipment buildings and other accessory structures
are not visible from adjoining properties, roads or other rights-of-way.
(7) Any antenna or tower that is not operated for a continuous period of 12 months shall be
considered abandoned, and the owner of such tower shall remove same within 90 days of receipt
of notice from the Frederick County Department of Planning and Development. Removal
includes the removal of the tower, all tower and fence footers, underground cables and support
buildings. If there are two or more users of a single tower, then this provision shall not become
effective until all users cease using the tower. If the tower is not removed within the ninety-day
period, the County will remove the facility and a lien may be placed to recover expenses.
Revised 9/18/19
Page 7 of 7
ARTICLE VI
Business and Industrial Zoning Districts
Part 605
OM Office-Manufacturing Park District
§ 165-605.02. Permitted uses.
Permitted Uses Standard Industrial
Classification
(SIC)
Communication facilities and offices, including telephone, telegraph, radio,
television and other communications.
48
Part 609
HE Higher Education District
§ 165-609.02. Permitted uses.
Structures to be erected or land to be used shall be for one or more of the following uses:
H. Communication facilities and offices, including telephone, telegraph, radio, television and other
communications.