Hanover County is considering a zoning ordinance amendment to curb the growth of car washes due to concerns about traffic, stormwater runoff, chemical discharge, and aesthetics.
A proposed amendment would make car washes a conditional use in the General Business (B-3) zoning district, requiring case-by-case approval by the Hanover Board of Supervisors.
The county planning commission is set to review the amendment later this month, following recent limitations on vape shops.
Complaints heard by Hanover include concerns about the "proliferation" of car washes.
Examples of existing car washes, such as The Whistle Express Car Wash at 7423 Pole Green Road in Mechanicsville, have raised concerns among residents.
Author's summary: Hanover County proposes zoning amendment.