Planning Commission Public Hearing, 8/12/2026

The City of Virginia Beach Planning Commission held a public hearing on August 12, 2026, addressing multiple zoning and land use matters, with a significant focus on short-term rental (STR) regulations in the Oceanfront Resort District. The commission considered amendments to the STR overlay district, including boundary reductions aimed at limiting STR proliferation to preserve housing stock. Two alternative maps were discussed, with the commission ultimately recommending approval of the alternative map that reduced the overlay less drastically, grandfathering existing legally operating STRs. Public comments reflected concerns about property rights, enforcement of existing regulations, and the economic impact of STRs. Additionally, the commission approved various consent agenda items including subdivision variances, conditional use permits for religious uses, storage yards, and short-term rentals, as well as amendments to workforce housing ordinances. A request for deferral was granted for a self-storage facility conditional use permit. The commission also received a briefing on data center regulations and discussed the need for a retreat to address procedural matters. Motions to approve the consent agenda and specific zoning amendments passed unanimously, with one abstention noted for a childcare center permit. Overall, the meeting involved detailed procurement-related discussions on zoning amendments, conditional use permits, and regulatory updates affecting development and housing in Virginia Beach.