Commission recommends zoning amendment to add self‑storage use as conditional in B‑2 and M‑1

The Dinwiddie County Planning Commission voted to recommend zoning ordinance amendment A‑25‑1 to the Board of Supervisors, creating a defined "self storage facility" use and making that use subject to a conditional use permit in the B‑2 and M‑1 districts.

Planning presenter Culbreth told the commission the county previously allowed storage uses through interpretation of wholesale business and storage warehouse categories, which limited the county’s ability to apply conditions in M‑1. The proposed text creates a standalone "self storage facility" definition and makes the use conditional in both B‑2 and M‑1 zoning districts. Culbreth said staff recommends approval.

The draft definition in the ordinance requires storage spaces to be enclosed by walls and a ceiling, allows a separate entrance for loading and unloading, and specifies the spaces "shall not be prefabricated structures arranged on a lot." The draft also prohibits the conduct of sales or other business activities within individual storage units; units are limited to storage use only.

There were no public speakers on the item. The motion to recommend adoption of A‑25‑1 referenced Virginia Code sections 15.2‑2285 and 15.2‑2286(a)(7) as part of the ordinance amendment finding of public necessity, convenience and welfare. The commission adopted the recommendation by a 6-0 vote and forwarded the amendment to the Board of Supervisors for consideration.