The Rapid City Zoning Board of Adjustment on Sept. 5 denied a variance request that would have allowed an existing 8,000-square-foot gravel parking area to remain at a property used by Fireside RV Rental.

Cassie Hayes, a planner with Community Development, told the board the site is zoned Neighborhood Commercial and that city code requires off-street parking be paved and maintained to eliminate dust and mud. Hayes said the gravel area amounts to about 38% of the lot and is the primary area proposed to store and display up to 20 RV and camper units. Staff recommended denial, saying "there are no special circumstances or conditions" that would justify a variance and that the gravel area could be paved so the business can continue.

Commission discussion focused on the variance criteria and practical options for a small business. Several commissioners emphasized that cost alone cannot justify a variance under the code; staff and multiple commissioners noted the city can issue a temporary certificate of occupancy to allow use while the owner paves within a single paving season if that helps the business finance improvements.

Vince moved to deny the variance; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote. Commissioner Haven was recorded voting against the denial and said she believed "there's a reason to approve this request" given the business's circumstances.

The denial means the property must be brought into compliance with Rapid City Municipal Code parking standards if the business continues in that location. Staff indicated they would work with the applicant on timelines and implementation options, including the temporary-occupancy approach mentioned during the meeting.

The decision concluded the Zoning Board's business for the day; the board adjourned and the Planning Commission convened.