While waiting for the green light from the DMV to open a dealership in Richmond, Tesla isn’t sitting idle in its hunt for local real estate.

The electric carmaker, which has sparked controversy among the state’s auto dealer industry in recent weeks, has leased the 30,000-square-foot property at 9850 W. Broad St.

The Broad Street site is owned by Weinstein Properties. Weinstein spokesman Ivan Jecklin confirmed Friday that Tesla has leased the space. He would not discuss when the lease was finalized or how it came about.

The deal comes as Tesla’s desires to operate in Richmond remain in regulatory limbo. At issue is whether the California-based company meets the standards for an exception to state code that prevents manufacturers from selling cars directly to consumers. The issue could take months to resolve as the Virginia Automobile Dealers Association is fighting to halt the company’s plans.

Tesla could not be reached for comment about the lease.

Jecklin said Weinstein developed the property in 2000 for Bassett Furniture. It sits on 2.2 acres and has been vacant since Bassett left a few years ago.

The debate surrounding Tesla hasn’t put a damper on its landlord’s hopes for the carmaker.

“I’m not worried at all,” Jecklin said.

Tesla could not be reached for comment about the lease.