Henry County adopts car wash moratorium

Henry County commissioners adopted a car wash moratorium earlier this month while the board considers whether to add a buffer requirement between new locations. The moratorium prohibits new requests to develop car washes for up to six months.

Henry County staff are recommending a buffer requirement of 2.5 miles between car washes. Several new locations have proposed or started construction in recent months — often in close proximity to an existing car wash.

Car Wash Moratorium

Henry County adopted the moratorium during their October 18 meeting. It lasts for six months or until the board approves changes to the relevant zoning code. No new applications for a rezoning request or building permits for a car wash may submit during this time.

Henry County staff have identified fifteen auto car washes within the county. MHF News identified at least one more location in Locust Grove. In addition, two new car washes are under construction in the Ola and Union Grove areas. Finally, three applicants are seeking rezoning requests for new car washes. The various rezoning requests are at the following intersections:

• SR 81 at Upchurch Road
• East Lake Parkway at Springdale Road
• Jonesboro Road at Chambers Road

The zoning advisory board considered two requests in September. The third request, off Jonesboro Road, will present to the zoning board in November. The board of commissioners has to hear each item in 2023 for a final decision.

Planning staff are recommending the buffer to avoid an over-concentration of car washes. Staff noted that car washes are difficult to repurpose for another business type if they were to close down.

Commissioners sought more info before making a final decision. Specifically, Commissioner Anglyn asked the planning staff to consider population ratios in their presentation. Commissioner Wilson inquired about excluding tractor-trailer washes from the new requirement. Commissioner Thomas indicated support for a larger buffer, such as four miles.

Because the county passed a moratorium, it can deliberate the matter without applicants rushing to file new requests. A final decision is to follow whether the board will adopt the new buffer requirements.

Featured image shows a new car wash under construction at state route 81 and North Ola Road. Clayton Carte photo.