Cape Charles Updates Historic District Overlay Ordinance

The Cape Charles Town Council has approved an update to the town’s Historic District Overlay Ordinance, adopting changes officials say are intended to clarify preservation standards and streamline the review process for property owners within the historic district. The Ordinance was approved during Thursday’s Regular Meeting

The ordinance, approved May 21 as Ordinance 20260521, amends Chapter 32 of the town’s zoning code, specifically Article VIII governing the Historic District Overlay. The action also updates Appendix A definitions and creates a new Appendix G within the Historic District Design Guidelines.

Town officials said the revisions were developed through a collaborative effort between the Cape Charles Planning Commission and the Historic District Civic League.

According to the ordinance, the new Appendix G is designed to provide clearer guidance on what types of work require approval within the historic district. The appendix distinguishes between “Routine Maintenance Work,” “Minor Work,” and “Major Work,” an effort aimed at helping homeowners and contractors better understand when formal review or approval is necessary.

The ordinance states that the revisions were considered following public hearings held by both the Planning Commission and Town Council, as required under Virginia law. The Planning Commission held its hearing on May 5 and unanimously recommended approval of the amendments. Town Council conducted its public hearing on May 21 before voting to adopt the changes.

Officials described the amendments as measures intended to support “public necessity, convenience, general welfare or good zoning practice,” while preserving the architectural and historic character of Cape Charles Historic District.

The updated ordinance became effective immediately upon adoption.

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Wayne Creed

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