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Applicant's plan for two yurts in Shenandoah County tabled after neighbor safety concerns
Summary
The applicant’s request to permit two yurts for short-term rentals on Crooked Run Road was tabled to March after neighbors raised safety, traffic and management concerns; staff had recommended limiting the use to two yurts and six guests.
An applicant-led request to permit two non-dwelling short-term rentals (two yurts) on roughly 11.05 acres at Crooked Run Road (Tax Map 078 A 95A) was tabled at the Jan. 7, 2026 meeting to allow further research and neighborhood outreach.
Associate Planner McKenzie Allen presented Special Use Permit 26-01-01, summarizing agency feedback (building permits required, VDH certification for an onsite sewage system that could serve three bedrooms, and a VDOT-approved low-volume commercial entrance) and staff conditions. Staff recommended, among other requirements, that “the short-term rental shall be limited to two (2) yurts and six (6) guests.”
The applicant, recorded in the minutes as Sainsanna Saudag, described the yurt design and use, saying the structures have an expected life of about 20 years and that rentals would be brief. The record states the applicants said the yurts would be used “for Mongolian Christian families through their church, for family retreats or getaways” and that they “would be short term less than 1 month.” The applicant also said they would consider installing a landline for safety.
Several nearby residents spoke in opposition. James Smith and Robert Klein raised concerns about theft, vandalism, fires, increased traffic and the distance of property management from the site. In response to the objections and at the applicant’s request, Chairman Gary Lantz moved and Debbie Keller seconded to table the SUP until the March meeting so the applicants could address issues including firearms, a landline, securing a local management company, open fire pits and property line markers. The roll-call vote to table was recorded as 4–0 in favor.
The tabled status means no final permit or land disturbance is authorized at this time; staff and the applicants will return with additional information and any proposed revisions in March.
