Board approves mobile coffee trailer at Rockfish Fire & Rescue with site and signage conditions

Nelson County supervisors approved special use permit SUP 26024 to permit a mobile coffee trailer at Rockfish Fire & Rescue, with conditions recommended by the Planning Commission.

Staff summarized the proposal and the Planning Commission’s 5–0 recommendation. Conditions include a minimum 200‑ft setback from the Route 151 right-of-way, VDOT review of site circulation and pavement markings, a prohibition on operation on election days, parking areas that must remain clear, the restaurant use limited to mobile food trailers, and a prohibition on flag signage along Route 151.

The applicant explained site circulation and said the drive-thru layout is intended to prevent stacking and enable emergency access; staff said VDOT will review and may require changes. The applicant told the board he had a tentative lease with the Rockfish fire and rescue department and planned a round-up fundraiser for the department. “We also are going to do a round-up program exclusively for the fire and rescue department,” the applicant said.

A nearby business owner, Clay Stewart, told the board he had experience with similar sites and expected only light queues during peak hours. After discussion, a motion to approve the SUP passed on roll call. The board directed staff to finalize the permit with the Planning Commission’s conditions and to ensure VDOT and any other required reviews are completed before operation.

The motion carried; the applicant may proceed subject to the conditions and any final technical approvals from VDOT and county permitting staff.