Cape Charles Nears Completion of Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Update

CAPE CHARLES, Va. — The Cape Charles Town Council is preparing to formalize a major overhaul of the town’s zoning ordinance, marking the culmination of an extensive review process that began in late 2022. The proposed revisions are designed to align the ordinance with the goals outlined in the town’s newly updated Comprehensive Plan and ensure compliance with state law.

The review process, which included the expertise of Summit Engineering, aimed to eliminate conflicts between the zoning ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan. Additionally, a full evaluation was conducted to update the ordinance, originally adopted in January 1977, addressing decades of incremental changes and issues flagged by town officials.

To guide this effort, the Planning Commission formed two subcommittees: one focused on housing regulations and the other on the sign ordinance. Over the past two years, these groups, along with the Planning Commission and Town Council, have held approximately 15 work sessions, many in joint settings, to review and refine the proposed changes.

With the draft zoning ordinance amendments now nearly complete, the Town Council must pass a resolution, as required by § 15.2-2286(A)(7) of the Code of Virginia, to initiate the formal adoption process. Per § 15.2-2285(B), the amendments must be referred to the Planning Commission for final recommendations before any enactment can occur.

The comprehensive update represents a significant step for Cape Charles, reflecting best practices and community input gathered over the multi-year review. The town hopes the revisions will facilitate responsible development and reinforce the vision set forth in its strategic planning documents.