Gainesboro District plans new special event facility with seasonal operations

Frederick County's Planning Commission is considering a proposal for a new special events facility located at 1261 North Hayfield Road in the Gainesboro District. The 65-acre property, currently zoned RA, is set to host a bridal ready suite and staging area for events, with plans for up to 20 events annually, accommodating between 25 to 100 attendees each.

The proposed facility includes a 40-foot by 60-foot metal building for office use and a 20-foot by 30-foot open picnic shelter. Events will be held seasonally from May through November, specifically on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with operational hours from dawn until 10 PM. Notably, the applicant has stated that there will be no amplified music during events.

The Planning Commission discussed various aspects of the proposal, including parking arrangements for 50 vehicles and compliance with zoning ordinances that require review and approval of all structures by building officials. The existing structure on the property will not be utilized for the events.

Concerns were raised regarding health department requirements for restroom facilities, particularly the difference in regulations for portable toilets based on event size. The commission noted that the Virginia Department of Health mandates one portable toilet for every 100 attendees, while previous applications had different requirements. The commission plans to follow up with the health department for clarification on these discrepancies.

Additionally, questions arose about the adequacy of the proposed building size for the expected number of attendees. The building is classified as agricultural exempt, which means it is not subject to standard building codes. The commission emphasized the importance of ensuring safety and compliance with occupancy limits.

The Planning Commission is seeking a recommendation to forward the proposal to the Board of Supervisors for further consideration. As discussions continue, the community is encouraged to stay informed about the developments surrounding this potential new venue.