Big-Box Restrictions to be Undone

Limits placed on the size of large retail establishments a year ago are on track to be tossed out of the Loudoun Zoning Ordinance next week.

In April 2011, the previous Board of Supervisors created a special exception requirement for large retail, grocery and hardware stores as well as pharmacies—often referred to as “big-box” stores. A special exception is an additional step required for certain uses that critics argue makes doing business in the county more difficult.

The current board, elected in November, initiated a reversal of the special exception requirement in April and is set to approve the change during the July 17 board meeting.

“This action is simply to show we’re open for business,” said Supervisor Ralph Buona (R-Ashburn). “That’s why we brought it forward.”

The existing restriction requires pharmacies and retail and grocery stores greater than 75,000 square feet, and construction sales establishments greater than 80,000 square feet, to obtain a special exception.

If approved, the board’s action would revert to the previous zoning language that permits those uses without size restrictions in the appropriate zoning categories.