Roanoke County approves short-term rental at Colonial Avenue with conditions

The Roanoke County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 28 approved a special-use permit allowing a short-term rental in the lower level of a single-family residence at 3352 Colonial Avenue in the Cave Springs/Madril Sterile district.

Philip Thompson, Roanoke County director of planning, told the board the property is about 0.5 acre and that the Planning Commission recommended approval with seven standard conditions: the rental is limited to the lower level (roughly 1,305 square feet); overnight occupancy must not exceed four guests; one off-street parking space must be provided per guest room in addition to spaces for the principal dwelling; all parking must be on-site; required smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and a fire extinguisher must be maintained; exits must remain unobstructed; the property must retain a residential appearance; no signage is permitted; no events such as parties or weddings are allowed; and a business license is required.

Isla Boyd, the property owner and petitioner, appeared and said she had no additions but would be available to answer questions. During discussion a supervisor who said he had previously opposed many short-term rental petitions moved for approval, stressing that on-site residency by the owner and the conditions (including parking and the occupancy limit) reduce the risk of neighborhood disruption. Another supervisor seconded the motion. The clerk called the roll and the motion passed unanimously.

The permit now allows the owner to rent the lower-level unit for fewer than 30 consecutive days under the conditions approved by the board. The Planning Department will enforce permit requirements and the zoning administrator may revoke the zoning permit for violations.