News Summary
The James City County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved amendments to zoning regulations for sexually-oriented businesses. The new regulations require a special use permit and designate specific zones where such businesses can operate, aiming to protect community welfare. With no existing adult-themed businesses in the area, these proactive measures serve to prepare for potential future inquiries and maintain oversight on community impacts.
James City County Board of Supervisors Approves Zoning Changes for Adult-Themed Businesses
The James City County Board of Supervisors has unanimously voted to amend the county’s zoning ordinance, introducing new regulations for sexually-oriented businesses. This decision aims to establish clear guidelines and requirements for such establishments, ensuring they are regulated and located in appropriate areas.
The amendments categorize sexually-oriented businesses, distinguishing them from general retail sales, and require that any business seeking to operate in this category must obtain a special use permit. Approval for these businesses is now limited to three specific zoning districts: limited business, general business, and limited business/industrial.
The implementation of these changes is a proactive measure to prevent adult-themed retail or entertainment from being situated in neighborhoods or areas deemed unsuitable. Zoning Administrator Christy Parrish emphasized the importance of oversight when evaluating potential impacts on the health, safety, and welfare of residents and workers within the community.
Designations and Definitions
The newly defined guidelines specifically outline what constitutes a sexually-oriented business. These include locations where age-restricted patrons may view adult videos, attend live performances, or purchase sexual novelty items and media intended for adult audiences. Currently, there are no sexually-oriented businesses under formal consideration in James City County, allowing the county to formulate regulations before any proposed establishments arise.
Local Context and Comparison
An inventory conducted by York County officials disclosed that no sexually-oriented businesses exist in Williamsburg, James City, or York counties. This lack of established businesses has enabled effective planning regarding future applications. Additionally, the James City County planning commission recommended such zoning changes in June to address any upcoming interests in adult-themed enterprises.
It is also important to note that in Williamsburg, the zoning ordinance currently lacks specific designations for adult-themed businesses, which effectively prohibits them from operating based on the existing regulations. Likewise, York County has enacted similar regulations in January, following an unsuccessful attempt by a businessman from Richmond to open an adult novelty store at a vacant gas station. This incident prompted York County to formally integrate sexually-oriented businesses into their list of prohibited home occupations, restricting them to designated zoning areas with specific requirements pertaining to distance, visibility, and operational hours.
Implications of the Decision
The unanimous support from the James City County Board of Supervisors reflects a comprehensive approach to planning and zoning that considers the needs and concerns of the community. By establishing clear guidelines on how to regulate adult-themed businesses, the board aims to strike a balance between business interests and community welfare.
These modifications are a significant step forward for James City County as it prepares for potential future inquiries or proposals related to adult-themed establishments. The regulations are crafted to prevent adverse effects on community dynamics while also allowing for appropriate business opportunities in designated areas.
In conclusion, the updates to James City County’s zoning ordinance represent a careful consideration of how to navigate the complexities of adult-themed businesses, ensuring any such establishments are appropriately managed within the framework of community welfare and safety.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: James City County Board of Supervisors Approves Zoning Changes for Adult-Themed Businesses
- WY Daily: York County Adopts Zoning Regulations for Sexually-Oriented Businesses
- Daily Press: York County Puts Limits on Proposals for Adult-Themed Businesses
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zoning Laws
- Google News: Zoning Regulations for Adult Businesses
