Cape Charles Planning Commission Considers Allowing Accessory Dwelling Units as Short-Term Rentals

CAPE CHARLES — The Cape Charles Planning Commission will review proposed changes to the town’s Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance that could allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to be rented as short-term rentals (STRs). The proposal stems from discussions held at the Planning Commission’s September 22 work session, following a request from the Cape Charles Historic District Civic League to consider expanding short-term rental eligibility to include ADUs.

Meeting Date: October 07, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Cape Charles Civic Center – 500 Tazewell Avenue

The Town’s Comprehensive Plan currently outlines that accessory dwelling units—small, secondary residences located on the same lot as a primary home—were originally approved in February 2019 under conditions intended to preserve neighborhood character and provide moderate-cost, long-term rental housing. At present, ADUs may not be rented for fewer than 30 days.

Town staff have now prepared draft amendments reflecting the Planning Commission’s comments. Proposed changes to the Comprehensive Plan would expand the description of housing options within mixed-use areas to include a broader range of rental and ownership types, intended to meet the community’s housing diversity goals.

The proposed zoning amendment would modify Section 4.1 (J)(2)(a) of the Cape Charles Zoning Ordinance. The revision would strike the existing restriction that prohibits ADUs from being rented for less than 30 days, instead allowing property owners to use ADUs as either long-term or short-term rentals. ADU owners would still be required to comply with Section 4.14 of the zoning ordinance, which governs short-term rentals townwide, including registration, business licensing, and occupancy documentation requirements.

The Planning Commission will review and discuss these proposed amendments at its upcoming regular meeting. If recommended for approval, the changes would move forward to the Town Council for consideration at a future public hearing.

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Wayne Creed

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