Vienna council votes to adopt broad zoning corrections, holds pool setback change for review

Council approved a multi‑item package of zoning code corrections and edits to Chapter 18 on Jan. 27, adopting the changes included in the packet while setting aside one item for further review.

Andrea West, zoning administrator, summarized the amendments as a combination of corrections and substantive edits to clarify accessory‑use definitions, fences, deck/outdoor living rules, parking standards and the previously missing buffer table in Article 5B (Sec. 18.561) that applies when institutional or community uses abut residential lots. Dozens of residents spoke in favor of restoring the buffer table during the public hearing; staff confirmed the corrected table was included with attachment 2.

Councilmember Anderson moved to approve the attachments (4–15) and explicitly excluded Item 13 — a proposed revision clarifying pool setbacks and the “edge of water” buffer — directing staff to return with diagrams and refined language. The motion passed unanimously on roll call.

Council and staff said Item 13 benefits from additional visual diagrams because corner lot geometry and rear‑wall relationships can create confusing results, especially on redeveloped lots. Staff will come back with drawings and refined setback language for council consideration.

What happens next: Staff will publish the redline and updated code language for the items adopted and return Item 13 with diagrams and proposed edits for a future advertised hearing.