Board denies full gravel front yard at 125 Paso Honda, orders 50% native plantings

The Compliance and Technical Advisory Board on March 21 sided with city staff in asking the owner of 125 Paso Honda to reduce gravel coverage and reinstate landscaping rather than allow the entire front yard to be converted to a gravel parking surface.

Applicant Oscar Guernica said he is seeking to meet requirements for three-and‑a‑half parking spaces for a short‑term rental and had been advised by Development Services that gravel is an acceptable material. Staff recommended denial of two requested items — a full front‑yard gravel surfacing and a 24‑foot curb cut centered in the lot — and instead recommended the applicant install at least 50% native plantings, natural‑colored ground cover and use the traditional driveway along the east side of the property.

A caller representing the Dignowity Hill Neighborhood Association supported staff’s recommendations and noted the city code discourages parking in front yards except on approved surfaces; the caller asked whether the property had historically been a duplex. The applicant said the property had previously been used as a multifamily residence and that he was attempting to renew a short‑term rental permit.

After discussion about alternatives and whether the adjacent property’s layout offered a model, the board voted to accept staff recommendations: deny the full gravel and centered curb cut, require 50% native greenery, and require replacement of any damaged city sidewalk and removal of guest‑parking signage if applicable.