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Granville County attorney says auction business must follow AR‑40 rules as residents press opposing views
Summary
After a formal complaint and a notice of violation, Granville County attorneys told the Board of Commissioners that Granville Auction Company’s regular auctions and on‑site storage are inconsistent with AR‑40 zoning rules; residents offered sharply divided public comments, with some urging protection of rural character and others defending the auction’s economic role.
Granville County officials and residents clashed over whether a local auction business should be allowed to continue regular sales and on‑site equipment storage on a 14.3‑acre parcel zoned AR‑40.
County Attorney Wren told the Board of Commissioners on Aug. 4 that the county received a formal complaint in July 2025 and that planning staff found numerous in‑person auctions and commercial equipment stored on the site. "No permits have been issued for these activities," Wren said, noting that a Notice of Violation was issued on June 11, 2025. He described the legal path forward as an application for a special‑use permit for outdoor storage or adherence to the ordinance's limits on events and storage.
The matter drew competing public comments during the meeting's public‑comment period. Sandra Berry, a nearby resident, said she opposes any expansion of commercial activity in the rural neighborhood and asked the commissioners to protect the area’s character: "We don't want any commercial in our little rural community," she told the board. Carol Royster Hart, speaking on behalf of farmers who use the auction, said the sales are "well run" and "providing a service to this community that otherwise a farmer would not have the opportunity to purchase some of the equipment that they sell." Other supporters noted local economic impact, while opponents emphasized noise, traffic and preservation of farmland.
Wren emphasized that the ordinance allows up to two on‑site auctions per year with a special‑event permit and that storage being the primary use is inconsistent with AR‑40 zoning. "This isn't about shutting down a business. This is about following the same rules that apply to everyone," he said, adding that the company may apply for a special use permit and that any such application will be decided through a quasi‑judicial evidentiary hearing with public notice and the opportunity for evidence and appeals.
The board did not take final action on a permit at the meeting; county staff said enforcement will continue unless and until the property owner secures appropriate approval or otherwise resolves the violation. A formal special‑use application, if filed, will be scheduled for the quasi‑judicial hearing process and public notice required by the land‑development ordinance.
