Board approves West Petersburg rezoning to Residential Urban to enable infill homes

The Dinwiddie County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Dec. 16 to approve rezoning case P25-13, converting several parcels in the West Petersburg neighborhood to the Residential Urban (RU) zoning district.

Staff told the board the area contains many nonconforming lots (commonly 25 ft by 100 ft) that the current R-1 zoning makes difficult to build on or expand; the RU district allows smaller lots and narrower setbacks suited to established, closely spaced neighborhood lots. The Planning Commission recommended approval with proffers to increase minimum side‑yard building setbacks to 7 feet per side (14 feet total).

The applicant, a local developer, said RU rezoning would enable modest single‑family infill that matches neighborhood character and would encourage homeownership rather than rental conversions. The developer proffered the 7‑foot side setbacks and said driveways and parking would be sized to accommodate two vehicles to address residents’ parking concerns.

Public comment included support from newer homeowners who said smaller lots enabled them to buy houses in the neighborhood; long‑term residents and community leaders urged caution about crowding, drainage and preserving the area’s heritage. The developer pledged to meet with neighbors and VDOT to address drainage and culvert concerns.

On the motion to approve, the board voted: Mister Chavis — aye; Miss Eberron Bonner — aye; Mister Dooley — aye; Doctor Moore — aye; (and) Mister Lee — aye.

What’s next: The rezoning clears the way for conditional subdivision or building permits consistent with RU standards and the developer’s proffers; staff said the developer and neighbors will continue follow‑up meetings regarding drainage and site access.

Sources: Planning staff report, applicant presentation and public comments at the Dec. 16 meeting.