An ordinance to amend Title 17 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws, the Zoning Ordinance of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, by changing from RM20-A to SP zoning for properties located at 3, 3B, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D Fern Avenue, and 101, 103, 105, 107 Elmhurst Avenue, at the northeast and northwest corners of Elmhurst Avenue and Fern Avenue (0.61 acres), to permit all uses of the RM20-A zoning district and not-owner-occupied short-term rentals, all of which is described herein (Proposal No. 2026SP-005-001).

This ordinance proposes to change the zoning for multiple properties located at Fern Avenue and Elmhurst Avenue (0.61 acres) from RM20-A to SP (Specific Planned Unit Development). The purpose of this rezoning is to allow all uses permitted under the RM20-A zoning district, with the specific addition of not-owner-occupied short-term rentals. The SP plan outlines requirements for landscaping, tree density, and parking to be in accordance with the Metro Zoning Code. Building height for any new structures will be limited to the maximum permitted in the RM20-A district, and facades must use specified materials like brick, stone, or similar. If any development standard is not explicitly addressed in the SP plan, the RM20-A district standards will apply. Minor modifications to the plan can be approved by the Planning Commission, but significant changes require Metro Council approval.

This zoning change will allow for the operation of not-owner-occupied short-term rentals in the affected RM20-A zoned area, potentially impacting neighborhood character and housing availability. Residents may see changes in property use and potentially increased transient activity.

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