Commission tables Airbnb request for Sydney Street duplex pending Historic District review

The Natchitoches Planning & Zoning Commission tabled consideration of a short‑term rental application for a property on Sydney Street and recommended the application go before the Historic District Commission for review of parking and driveway materials.

Planning staff read an email from Caroline Abruv, parish administrator for the Trinity Episcopal Church preschool, saying Sydney Street is a narrow, highly trafficked one‑block street with limited residential parking and that on‑street parking by guests can impede two‑way traffic. In the email, Abruv asked that short‑term rental applicants explain parking plans and noted that an increase in overnight parking could affect neighbors.

Tanya Price, a realtor with Cane River Realty who said she has managed the property for more than a year, told the commission the property is currently used for monthly rentals and that the owner wants to convert to short‑term (Airbnb) use. Price said the building functions like a duplex with two front doors but that it is effectively a single house.

A planning staff member reminded the commission that the jurisdiction’s short‑term rental rule requires at least two off‑street parking spaces if they are not already provided. Staff also said the Historic District Commission may not approve a concrete driveway and often prefers gravel that fits the historic district’s layout. Based on those concerns, staff recommended tabling the application, sending it to HDC for parking/driveway review, and having the applicant return with HDC approval or a recommendation.

The commission agreed to lay the item over and staff said they would notify the Historic District Commission and return the item at the next meeting once HDC has reviewed the parking plan.