Local Advocacy
Chesterfield County’s ZOMod
Chesterfield County is rewriting its zoning laws for the first time since 1973 — before half of current residents were born! The county government calls this Zoning Ordinance MODernization process “ZOMod.”
Why do zoning rules matter?
Zoning rules determine what can—and can’t—be built everywhere in the county. Current zoning severely limits housing choice and keeps prices high. We need fair zoning to create more housing opportunities for all.
What are the issues
- Chesterfield Needs Housing Choice: Not only is little land zoned for apartment construction. Multifamily developments today require at least 20 acres of land—the equivalent of 185 basketball courts or 3 Brown’s Islands! Single-family homes face tough rules, too, with large minimum lot sizes. People want more options for renting and houses on smaller lots.
- Permitting and Amenity Obstacles: Rezoning land in order to build more housing can take a year, inflating costs. Meanwhile, multifamily zoning requires developers to build “amenity spaces,” limiting land for homes. Doing away with amenity space requirements while fast-tracking permits: a win-win.
- Mixed-Use: A Key to Affordability: Current zoning makes it illegal to build apartments in commercial zones, transit corridors that are close to jobs and services like transit and grocery stores.Where we can build office buildings and restaurants, we ought to have the right to build apartment complexes.
- ADUs for the Win: These small structures on existing house sites can be used by seniors, to age in place, or create new income streams for homeowners. ADUs increase property value and add rental options, all without clearing new land. ADUs fit into existing neighborhoods and boost housing choice.
How do I get involved?
Chesterfield County is accepting public comments on the current ZOMod draft until October 31. Email the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors!
Other Ways to Get Involved?
- Speak up at Planning Commission Meetings
- Email your County Planning Commissioner
- Spread the word: Invite HOME to talk to your social or civic group
