King George County has spent the last year discussing a downzoning ordinance that would increase the minimum lot size in the majority of land in the county. Under the current zoning, A-1 parcels required a 10-acre minimum, A-2 requires a 2-acre minimum and A-3 requires a 1-acre minimum. Under the revised proposed changes to the text amendment, these minimum lot sizes would increase to 20, 5, and 3 acres respectively. King George County already has one of the most restrictive zoning codes in the region with an annual growth rate of less than 2%. This downzoning punishes rural landowners who have built up considerable value in their land by making it harder for them to realize the full financial potential of their property.
If you are concerned about this issue, consider reaching out to your member of the Planning Commission by either sending an email or attending the next meeting where this will be discussed.
King George County Planning Commission Meeting
Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 6:30pm
Board Room of the Revercomb Building
10459 Courthouse Drive
King George, VA 22485
These changes could restrict the ability to develop land efficiently and cost-effectively and could have significant economic consequences for King George County landowners. Here are some key talking points to consider when advocating against these amendments at the upcoming planning commission meeting:
- Economic Impact:The increase in minimum lot sizes could reduce the market value of property as many divisions will need to go through the costly and time-consuming rezoning process.
- Property Rights:These amendments infringe upon property owners’ rights to utilize their land as they see fit within existing zoning regulations. Limiting the number of lots that can be created per parcel restricts property owners’ ability to maximize the value of their assets.
- Housing Affordability:These amendments could drive up the cost of housing in our area by decreasing lot yield. Decreasing available and buildable lots will result in higher home prices, making homeownership less accessible for working families and young professionals.
- Competitive Disadvantage: Large developers with more resources may be better positioned to absorb the impact of these amendments or seek alternative development opportunities. Small home builders, on the other hand, may struggle to compete in a market where their ability to maximize land use is constrained.