Pearisburg rescinds incorrect zoning draft and adopts corrected temporary-residence ordinance

At its June 17 special meeting the Pearisburg Town Council unanimously rescinded an incorrectly adopted draft of Ordinance 2026-07 and adopted the corrected version that had been publicly advertised. Mayor Robert Dickerson told the council staff had found that the version mistakenly adopted on June 9 referenced a 15-month permit issuance period with a 15-month extension, while the advertised and intended text provided a 12-month permit with a one-time 12-month extension.

To correct the record, Council first voted to add the corrected ordinance to the special meeting agenda, then voted to rescind the June 9 adoption, and finally voted to adopt the revised and correct ordinance. All three votes were 7–0.

The adopted ordinance (Ordinance 2026-07) permits Temporary Residential Buildings—defined in the ordinance as a dwelling (excluding recreational vehicles)—for use as a temporary residence by the owner(s) of real estate during construction of a primary residence, subject to a $250 permit fee and compliance with setback, parking, size, water/sewer, and other requirements. Key provisions include maximum floor-area limits (350 square feet on lots of less than 2,500 square feet; 500 square feet on lots 2,500 square feet or greater), a requirement that the temporary residence be no more than 500 feet from the proposed primary dwelling, limits on occupancy (owner only; not leased), and a one-time 12-month extension fee of $125 if construction is not complete within the initial 12 months.

Council said the corrective actions were necessary to ensure the ordinance reflected what had been advertised and considered in the public hearing process; the corrected ordinance became effective upon adoption. The minutes record that with no further business the meeting was adjourned.