Bedford County commissioners reject zoning amendment on RVs, ready-removables and mini-structures in 10-8 vote

The Bedford County Board of Commissioners voted 10-8 on a motion to reject Resolution 25-15, a proposed amendment to the Bedford County zoning resolution (version 11.32) that would have added or clarified definitions and rules for recreational vehicles (RVs), mini-storage/mini-barn structures, and “ready removable” structures and revised temporary-use and temporary-medical permit language.

The measure had been recommended favorably by the Bedford County Regional Planning Commission in January 2025 and was the subject of a public hearing before the commissioners. Supporters of the amendment argued it would protect neighbors and public health; opponents said it risked overreach into property rights or needed clearer language and enforcement plans.

Why it matters: the proposed changes would have altered how certain small, movable or temporary dwelling units are treated by county code — including whether they could be used as permanent residences and what sanitation and building standards would apply. Commissioners, county staff and several members of the public framed the dispute around two core issues: protecting public health and septic systems, and preserving private property rights.

Public comments included a range of views. Paul Engel of Unionville warned of constitutional concerns, saying, “The Fourteenth Amendment ... prohibits states, and by extension, their subdivisions, from depriving anyone of their life, liberty, or property without due process of law.” Nancy Church and other residents…