Is Front Royal Destined to Become Another Fairfax? 

The Front Royal Planning Commission recommended approval of an ordinance to allow a second house, aka accessory dwelling unit (ADU), to be built by-right in back yards.  According to a member of the Council, this could result in 1,400 more houses on already developed lots.

According to the Town staff, the reason is affordability.  The average cost of an ADU in Virginia is $180,000.  Add that to property values, and existing homes become unaffordable.

While the definition of an ADU appears to imply these units are for family members, there is nothing in the ordinance to restrict them to family use.  The Town staff admitted during the Commission’s public hearing that the units could be rented out, including as short-term rentals.

The ordinance requires the property owner to occupy the primary home or ADU; however, under the Dormant Commerce Clause, localities cannot pass legislation that favors in-state residents.  Courts have held such zoning requirements to be illegal.  If this portion of the ordinance is determined to be illegal and stricken, the result would be that real estate venture corporations could purchase homes, add ADUs, and rent both out, driving locals out of the market.  This has happened elsewhere – why would Front Royal be different?

Like all localities in the Shenandoah Valley, Front Royal/Warren County has been in a drought for several years and has had to implement water conservation measures.  According to the U.S. Drought Monitor website, Front Royal/Warren County is currently in a severe drought.  Normally, water resources recharge in the winter, so being in a drought at this time is a major concern.  Increased housing equals increased water consumption.  Localities cannot continue to tax their natural resources by adding more housing units on already developed lots.

Other concerns – less trees/grass; negative impact on neighborhoods; negative impact on tourism through loss of its beautiful natural environment;  impact on schools; parking; enforceability – to name a few.

If you DO NOT want to see two houses per lot, contact the Mayor and Town Council and demand they deny this amendment.

Rhonda S. North
Front Royal, VA

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