Metro Board denies Bass short-term rental permit appeal for Harding Place property

In a recent meeting of the Short Term Rental Appeals Board in Nashville, significant discussions emerged regarding the case of Yirasi Rocha Bass, who appealed the denial of her short-term rental permit application. The board convened to address the implications of her operating a property without the necessary permit, which has raised questions about compliance and the enforcement of local zoning laws.

The case centers on a property located at 676 Harding Place, which was advertised on Airbnb shortly after its acquisition in September 2024. Despite operating as a short-term rental, Bass did not obtain the required permit, leading to a notice of violation issued in February 2025. The property is situated in an RS10 zone, which only permits owner-occupied short-term rentals. Consequently, Bass's application for a non-owner occupied permit was denied, as such permits are not allowed in this zoning district.

During the meeting, board members discussed the timeline of events, noting that Bass had documented stays at the property prior to receiving the notice of violation. This raised questions about the eligibility for a permit, as the zoning regulations stipulate a one-year waiting period for properties that have operated without a permit. The board deliberated on whether to grant any leniency regarding this waiting period, considering Bass's claims of misunderstanding the permit requirements due to her previous experience in another county.

Bass expressed her confusion over the permit process, stating that she believed obtaining a business license was sufficient. The board acknowledged her situation, with some members expressing empathy for her predicament while also emphasizing the importance of adhering to local regulations. They debated the merits of offering relief from the one-year waiting period, weighing the potential implications for future compliance and enforcement of zoning laws.

Ultimately, the board's discussions highlighted the complexities surrounding short-term rental regulations in Nashville, particularly as they relate to zoning laws and the enforcement of compliance. The outcome of Bass's appeal remains uncertain, as the board must consider both the legal framework and the individual circumstances of her case. The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by property owners navigating the short-term rental landscape in a city grappling with housing demand and regulatory compliance.