Council approves rezoning for 380 Sunrise Avenue to allow property owner flexibility for an addition

HARRISONBURG, Va. — The Harrisonburg City Council on Tuesday approved a rezoning request for a parcel at 380 Sunrise Avenue, changing the property's zoning from R-1 (single-family residential) to R-8C (conditional) to allow the owner additional flexibility to construct an addition.

City staff said the rezoning request is intended to correct a nonconforming setback problem caused by a lot line that splits the property and to create an opportunity for a property addition that would better conform to the city’s regulations if the lot line is vacated.

The applicant submitted a single proffer — that more than one dwelling unit would be prohibited on the property — effectively preserving low-density use while granting the owner flexibility on setbacks and height that the R-8 conditional district permits. Planning staff supported the rezoning and Planning Commission recommended approval 5–0. Council approved the rezoning on a unanimous roll-call vote.

What it changes - Rezoning: R-1 to R-8 (conditional) for 380 Sunrise Avenue. - Proffer: owner-provided proffer limiting the parcel to a single dwelling unit.

Why it matters The change is procedural: it allows the property owner to bring a future addition into conformance by using the conditional R-8 zoning and a vacation of a dividing property line. Staff described the rezoning as a step toward resolving the property’s nonconforming setback situation.

Votes: Council approved the rezoning by unanimous vote.

Speakers and record Adam Fletcher presented the item; the applicants were present but no public opposition was recorded during the hearing. Planning Commission recommended approval 5–0 and council approved the item during the May 13 meeting.