Commission Approves Mega Mini Golf Conditional Use Permit; Applicants Cited Youth Project and Community Benefit

The Cumberland County Planning Commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit to operate Mega Mini Golf on a 1.4‑acre portion of a 3.4‑acre parcel at 3945 Cumberland Road after staff recommended approval with conditions.

Staff described the business as primarily a family‑oriented mini golf site with alternative play modes (foot golf, disc golf) and hours of operation set at 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. with tee times ending at 9 p.m. Staff told the commission the applicants had operated the course before realizing a CUP was required and recommended conditions including preservation of existing vegetative buffers, compliance with septic/well/electrical regulations, refuse screening and VDOT driveway standards. Staff also noted a recommended speed study for the adjacent road and that the CUP can be reviewed if law‑enforcement calls exceed thresholds.

Applicant Fred Morrow said the course provides services for seniors, schools and the community and that the family are long‑time Cumberland residents. “We’re Cumberland residents for life, so we want to continue that and, like to have a mini golf course,” he said. A school principal who spoke in support said the site fosters family activity and praised the applicants’ engagement with students.

After public comment, the commission voted in favor of the CUP; commissioners congratulated the applicants and noted the commission’s preference that applicants come into compliance when use rules are unclear.

What happens next: staff will issue required zoning permits, the applicants must comply with VDOT and health‑department requirements if they add restrooms, and planning staff will handle standard CUP compliance monitoring.