Kensington neighborhood considers vacation rental permit for historic home on Fifth Street

The Norfolk Planning Commission convened on May 22, 2025, to discuss several significant proposals regarding short-term rental permits in the city. The meeting highlighted two key applications for Conditional Use Permits (CUP) aimed at transforming single-family homes into vacation rentals, reflecting the ongoing debate over the balance between residential integrity and the growing demand for short-term accommodations.

The first application involved a request for a CUP for a vacation rental at a three-bedroom home located at the intersection of 30 Fifth Street and Killam Avenue in the Kensington neighborhood. The property, built in 1917 and owned by the applicant since April 2022, is currently operating as a legally permitted homestay. The applicant plans to self-manage the property and has committed to adding street trees along the Killam Avenue frontage. Notably, the property is zoned for single-family traditional use, and the applicant's goal is to transition from a homestay to a vacation rental, which would allow him to move out of the residence.

Staff analysis indicated that within a 500-foot radius of the property, approximately 59% of residential parcels are single-family homes, with only 1% currently designated as short-term rentals. The staff recommended approval of the application, contingent upon conditions outlined in their report. However, the proposal faced opposition from the applicant's daughter, who expressed concerns about the potential impact on the neighborhood.

The second application presented was for a duplex located at 1138 Bridgeline Avenue, seeking a CUP to operate as short-term rental units. The duplex, built in 1966, is currently a long-term rental but will transition to short-term rentals following the departure of existing tenants. The property will be managed by CSP Cleaning Services LLC, which has experience in short-term rental management. Similar to the first application, staff recommended approval, noting that within a 500-foot radius, 69% of properties are single-family homes, with only 6% of those potentially becoming short-term rentals if the application is approved.

Both proposals reflect a broader trend in Norfolk as the city grapples with the implications of short-term rentals on residential neighborhoods. The commission's recommendations for approval suggest a willingness to accommodate the evolving landscape of housing and tourism, while also emphasizing the need for responsible management and community engagement. As these applications move forward, the outcomes will likely influence future discussions on zoning and the regulation of short-term rentals in Norfolk.