CAPE CHARLES, Va. — The Town of Cape Charles is preparing for a series of public hearings in January 2026 as officials consider a zoning text amendment that would address whether Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) may be used as short-term rentals (STRs).
According to town staff, the Planning Commission and Town Council will both take up the proposed zoning changes early next year. The scheduling marks the next step in what is expected to be one of the town’s most closely watched policy discussions going into 2026.
Town staff are finalizing draft language for a related Comprehensive Plan Amendment, which also focuses on ADUs and their eligibility for short-term rental use. That proposal is set to be presented to the Town Council during its December 18, 2025 meeting. If accepted for review, it will move into a formal public hearing process in January alongside the zoning amendment.
Officials say the coordinated review is intended to ensure consistency between the Town’s Comprehensive Plan and zoning ordinance as Cape Charles evaluates how ADUs fit into its broader housing, land use, and tourism goals.
Public hearing dates and full draft language are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
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FRANK WENDELL FOR MAYOR!!!