The VPM Daily Newscast contains all your Central Virginia news in just 5 to 10 minutes. Episodes are recorded the night before.
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Here’s a recap of the top stories on the morning of July 26, 2023:
Richmond eyes major zoning changes for short-term rentals, accessory units
Reported by VPM News’ Jahd Khalil
The housing crunch has home values and rents going up, and Richmond’s City Council has two short-term zoning proposals to review.
One proposed ordinance would allow short-term rentals — commonly booked through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO — in any residential district and raise permitting fees. Another proposal would regulate small housing units — known as accessory dwelling units or ADUs — allowing them to be built on single-family lots in the city’s residential zones
Richmond City Council passes exotic, wild animals ban
Reported by VPM News’ Patrick Larsen
The unanimously passed measure covers nonhuman primates, venomous reptiles and snakes, crocodilians, raccoons, big cats and more. Any owner who does not possess the required state or federal permits to own an exotic animal is subject to a class 3 misdemeanor and a fine of up to $500.
It does carve out exemptions for uncommon house pets like ferrets, rabbits, hedgehogs, mice and rats — provided they were bred in captivity and never lived in the wild. There’s also a 180-day grace period for existing owners of select reptiles and amphibians to register their venomous or poisonous pals.
In other news:
- Atlantic Union strikes deal to acquire Danville-based bank (Richmond BizSense)*
In case you missed it:
- Charlottesville pastor sues Virginia to reclaim voting rights (The Daily Progress)*
*This outlet utilizes a paywall.
