Danville homeowner seeks approval for Airbnb despite neighbor's objections

The Board of Zoning Appeals meeting held on December 19, 2024, in Danville, Virginia, focused on a proposal for a short-term rental at a residential property located near Locust Lane. The applicant, who intends to use the property for both personal stays and as an Airbnb, faced scrutiny regarding the proposed occupancy limit and potential neighborhood impacts.

The applicant stated that while the city has set an occupancy limit of 12 people based on square footage, he plans to limit the rental to six guests, with a maximum of two vehicles allowed. He emphasized his intention to maintain the property in good condition and avoid hosting parties, which aligns with city guidelines prohibiting such gatherings in short-term rentals.

Concerns were raised by local residents, particularly regarding parking and traffic in the area. One resident, Keith Young, expressed strong opposition, citing past issues with vehicle damage and increased traffic due to construction work at the property. He argued that allowing an Airbnb in a residential neighborhood would exacerbate existing problems, including limited parking and noise.

The board discussed the implications of granting the special exception for short-term rental use, noting that while the applicant could rent the property long-term without restrictions, a short-term rental would allow for more oversight and control over guests. The board considered whether the proposed limits on occupancy and vehicles would adequately address neighborhood concerns.

Ultimately, the board deliberated on the balance between allowing the applicant to utilize the property as intended while ensuring the residential character of the neighborhood is preserved. The meeting concluded without a final decision, as further discussions and considerations are expected in future sessions. The board will continue to evaluate the proposal, taking into account community feedback and the applicant's commitments to limit occupancy and manage parking effectively.