Supervisors approve amendment to Emerging Technologies zoning district, add waiver process

The Surry County Board of Supervisors voted Feb. 5 to adopt ordinance 2026-01, amending the Emerging Technologies zoning district (amendment 2025-02).

Planning staff said the amendment removes some principal commercial uses (general office, contractor yards, laboratories, outdoor storage, warehousing and distribution) while reclassifying some as accessory uses; it introduces a waiver process so the board — not staff — can grant exceptions to the previous 500-acre minimum district size when properties are adjacent to electric transmission lines, natural gas lines, waterways or major road networks. "To be eligible for a waiver, you have to meet these parameters here under a and under b," Planning staff said. The ordinance also adds an exterior lighting section aligned with International Dark Sky guidelines, requires a transportation and mobility plan for district applications, and incorporates construction-management and cultural-resource study requirements.

Staff noted the Planning Commission recommended the amendment by a 10–0 vote. Doctor Elliott moved to approve the ordinance as recommended; the board approved the motion on a roll-call vote. The ordinance is now adopted and will be implemented through the planning and permitting process; staff noted the board can place reasonable conditions on any waivers it approves.