Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hampton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in zoning
Short-Term Rental Program Review and Capacity Caps
Council kicked off amendments to the zoning ordinance governing short-term rentals like Airbnb stays. The rules that will shape how these rentals operate in Hampton neighborhoods are now open for revision.
Armistead Avenue Rezoning and Industrial-to-Residential Conversion
Applicant Leonard Powell is asking to rezone two parcels on N. Armistead Avenue from heavy manufacturing to single-family residential to allow new homes. One parcel includes proffered conditions while the other does not.
Old Buckroe Road Residential Rezoning Proposal
The commission will consider a rezoning request to shift property from an R-13 to an R-9 residential district, paving the way for a new 13-unit single-family housing subdivision. This project will alter local housing density and bring new homes to the area.
Retail Cannabis Zoning and Operational Regulations
City staff presented proposed zoning districts, use permit requirements, and operating rules to prepare for the legalization of retail cannabis sales in 2027.
Short-Term Rental Permit Revocation on Woodside Drive
The city upheld the revocation of a short-term rental permit at 317 Woodside Drive after repeated complaints regarding large unauthorized parties, noise, and parking issues.
Zoning Administrator Permit Revocation and Appeal Updates
The city is updating rules to send short-term rental permit revocation appeals to the Board of Zoning Appeals instead of City Council and making people wait a full year before reapplying after a revocation.
Subdivision Ordinance Updates and Cemetery Preservation Standards
The city updated Chapter 35 of the city code to ensure local subdivision rules match new Virginia state laws and standards.
McDowell Point nine-unit duplex development
A developer wants to rezone 1.94 acres at 1772 Old Buckroe Road for one single-family home plus four duplexes. Neighbors pushed back on flooding, loss of mature trees, and privacy along the new public street, so the commission tabled it for more study.
Restaurant 2 Zoning and Public Safety Standards
The city is tightening rules for restaurants with entertainment and alcohol by updating revocation procedures, waiting periods, and security guard requirements.
Chesapeake Bay Preservation and Coastal Resilience Ordinance Update
The city is updating local zoning rules to match state requirements for protecting mature trees, planting new ones, and planning for sea-level rise. These changes affect future development in protected watershed areas.
Buckroe Neighborhood Development and Preservation
Residents raised alarms about luxury housing developments threatening the affordability and beach-town character of Buckroe, urging the city to prioritize current residents.