On Tuesday, the Roanoke County Planning Commission will discuss zoning ordinance amendments during its work session, but there is no planned discussion on a potential zoning change that would limit abortion clinics in the county.
According to a memorandum attached to the agenda, planning staff will review draft zoning amendments related to solar energy systems, cluster subdivisions and commercial kennels.
The proposed amendments that will be discussed set general standards regarding solar energy systems, including a height limit of 15 feet for ground-mounted panels or equipment. The change also requires that solar energy systems be enclosed with security fencing. Another change redefines rules for commercial kennels, stating that outdoor training areas should be set back a minimum of 100 feet from any property line. The zoning administrator may allow a reduction in that setback.
On Feb. 10, while approving its consent agenda, the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution directing the planning commission to study and provide recommendations regarding whether to amend the provisions of the county’s zoning ordinance to restrict the operation of abortion clinics within the county’s various zoning districts.
Hollins Supervisor Phil North said that Vice Chairman David Radford proposed these changes initially and that the next step is for the planning commission to conduct a study and provide a recommendation to the board on whether action should be taken. The planning commission would hold a public hearing before any recommendations are made.
“We referred this issue to the Planning Commission because we see that this is a topic being explored and acted upon by several surrounding localities and others across the Commonwealth,” North wrote in an email. Lynchburg and Bedford are among the localities that have already enacted similar zoning changes.
Phil Thompson, director of planning with the county, said under the current zoning code, abortion services would fit under zoning for a hospital or medical office. He said there are currently no abortion clinics in the county.
Thompson said he couldn’t provide an estimate as to when the planning commission might be ready to make recommendations to the board.
During Tuesday’s meeting, the planning commission will also consider three rezonings and discuss the 2026 Planning Commission Work Plan.
Those who are interested in viewing the entire agenda for Tuesday’s work session or signing up to address the planning commission can do so here. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Roanoke County Administration Center at 5204 Bernard Drive.