Zoning board OKs special exception for short‑term rental at 1431 Gardenia Avenue with staff conditions

The Tuscaloosa City Zoning Board of Adjustment voted Dec. 17 to approve a special exception allowing a short‑term rental at 1431 Gardenia Avenue in Council District 5, subject to the conditions recommended by staff.

Staff told the board that the property is owner‑occupied and equipped with a driveway‑facing camera and keypad locks, and that it had previously been approved for short‑term rental in 2023 under similar conditions. Staff recommended limiting occupancy to four adults and two vehicles (with one vehicle parked in the garage); the petitioner requested permission for six to seven adults and three vehicles. "Staff recommends 4 adults and 2 vehicles provided 1 vehicle is parked in the garage," the staff presenter said.

The petitioner addressed the board and detailed the recent transfer of the property into his name, his intent to serve as the primary 24‑hour contact during rental periods, and prior use for game and graduation weekends. He said the house passed required safety inspections and carries the fire marshal‑required equipment. He told the board he would be locally available on most rental occasions but acknowledged that on major football weekends he may stay near team activities; he said he would remain reachable and agreed to the staff conditions.

No members of the public registered to speak. Board members asked whether there had been prior incidents at the property; staff and the petitioner said none were reported. After board discussion and repeated statements that they had no issues with the application given prior approvals and the petitioner's agreement with staff conditions, the board voted and the petition passed.

The board's action was recorded as ZBA12025. The approved conditions in the available transcript match staff recommendations (4 adults/2 vehicles).