Lexington Board Rejects Short Term Rental Permit for Lane Allen Property

The Lexington Board of Adjustment convened on August 11, 2025, to discuss several requests for conditional use permits for unhosted short-term rentals in single-family residential zones. The meeting began with a motion to approve a permit for a property located at 3853 Plantation Drive, which was unanimously approved after confirming the maximum occupancy of six people.

Following this, the board reviewed another application for a property at 225 Floral Park. The staff recommended approval based on compliance with four specified conditions, and the motion was seconded and passed without further discussion.

The final item on the agenda involved a request from House and Home LLC for a conditional use permit for a short-term rental at 605 Lane Allen Road. Staff recommended disapproval, citing the presence of two existing short-term rentals within the required 600-foot buffer zone, which violated the zoning ordinance. The applicant, Annie Williams, argued her case, emphasizing her long history of operating the rental without complaints and the support from neighbors. She contended that the zoning regulations did not accurately reflect the neighborhood dynamics, particularly regarding the classification of Lane Allen as an arterial road.

Despite her compelling presentation, board members expressed sympathy but reiterated the necessity to adhere to zoning laws. After deliberation, a motion for disapproval was made and seconded, ultimately passing with the board's majority vote.

The meeting concluded with a clear indication that while individual circumstances may warrant consideration, adherence to established zoning regulations remains paramount in the board's decision-making process.