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Council adopts zoning changes to modernize rules for amusement devices, centers and recreation
Summary
Hampton adopted Zoning Ordinance Amendment 26-146 to replace 'coin-operated' language, measure arcade-style devices by floor area, add districts where amusement centers are allowed, and create a separate definition for off-track betting facilities drawn from Virginia code.
Hampton City Council voted to adopt a package of zoning amendments meant to modernize definitions and standards for amusement devices, amusement centers, off-track horse-race betting facilities and physical recreation facilities.
Chief planner Donna Woodwill told the council the existing definition of "coin-operated amusement machine" was out of date and overly restrictive and that the amendments would instead assess amusement devices by floor area — allowing up to 20% of a business’s floor area for such devices — and would expand where amusement centers can operate in districts such as Buckroe Beach and downtown DT1/DT2. “In creating the new amusement center language...the wording comes straight from the Virginia code that defines what an off track horse race betting facility is,” Woodwill said.
Staff and the planning commission recommended approval after explaining the changes would replace vague, outdated terms, distinguish accessory amusement devices from full amusement centers, add standards for higher-intensity operations, and clarify physical recreation facility definitions to include outdoor uses like mini golf and pickleball. No members of the public spoke on the item and the council adopted the amendment by roll call with unanimous Ayes.
The change also classifies existing off-track betting locations as legal but nonconforming and establishes a separate permitting path for future OTB facilities under limited commercial and overlay districts.
