San Antonio Board of Adjustment grants multiple variances, splits on several short-term rental appeals

The San Antonio Board of Adjustment met Aug. 4 and took action on short-term‑rental appeals, nonconforming‑use claims and multiple variance requests. The board granted variances for setbacks and lot-size relief on several properties, denied at least one appeal and continued a late‑filed garage/carport item for re‑advertisement.

Why it matters: The board's rulings will reactivate or keep revoked short‑term‑rental permits in two cases, allow property owners to proceed with construction in historic and residential neighborhoods, and underscore procedural limits: when a use was not lawfully established staff recommended rezoning rather than retroactive nonconforming‑use recognition.

Key actions and outcomes

- 5454 Vista Trail (BOA-25-10300128): Appeal of a July 1 STR permit revocation for failure to timely report and remit hotel occupancy tax. Applicant representatives said notices went to spam and the owner resides out of state. Motion to grant the appeal failed (motion did not carry; recorded vote 6 in favor, 4 opposed, 1 abstention). Because the board could not meet the 75% threshold required by the city's rules, the revocation stands.

- 13223 Lost Lake Drive (BOA-25-10300132): Appeal of STR permit revocation. Applicant testified she believed Airbnb remitted taxes and paid a remaining balance after being notified. The board voted 9–2 to grant the appeal and reactivate the permit, which retains its original expiration date (April 11, 2027) if the board overturns the revocation.

- 1031 South Gevar Street (BOA-25-10300135): Applicant sought a special exception to allow an additional Type 2 STR on a block face. Staff…