Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Memphis public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
15 issues in zoning
Residential RV and Trailer Usage in Single-Family Zones
Neighbors pushed back against allowing an RV to be used as a permanent home on a church-owned lot on Phillips Road. The board agreed, ruling that residential trailers violate zoning codes and could hurt neighborhood property values.
Quinn Road Plan Development Modification and Infrastructure Strain
Collierville officials and local residents fought a major housing modification on Quinn Road, warning of narrow roads, heavy construction traffic, and out-of-state water dependence.
Front-Yard Paving and Parking Regulations
A homeowner requested variances for a circular driveway and parking pad installed without permits. The board approved the circular driveway concept but required the removal of an extra parking pad to preserve neighborhood green space.
Accessory Dwelling Unit Size and Height Variances
The board debated whether to retroactively approve two oversized and tall backyard apartments built in error at 3251 Seminole Road. Neighbors pointed out that the tight fit could create dangerous parking and sidewalk blockages for local children walking to school bus stops. Ultimately, the board approved the project with extra restrictions on driveways and fencing.
Liquor Store Proximity and Land Use Appeal
Competing businesses challenged a liquor store's location on South White Station Road, arguing it violated the 1,500-foot distance rule from schools and churches. The city council ultimately voted against the appeal, allowing the business to remain open.
Comprehensive Rewrite of the Unified Development Code (UDC)
Planning staff provided an update on the ongoing overhaul of the Memphis 3.0 comprehensive plan, the 75-year-old zoning map, and the Unified Development Code. The project aims to direct growth toward the historic core, simplify regulations, and increase transparency.
Front-Yard Fence Heights and Neighborhood Security
Property owners are putting up tall fences in front yards along busy roads to combat squatters, dumping, and safety concerns, pushing against zoning caps that limit front fences to four feet.
Commercial Development Proposal on Humphrey Road
The Memphis Islamic Center proposed building four commercial buildings on vacant agricultural land along Humphrey Road. Neighbors and local leaders pushed back, citing already heavy traffic, safety risks on the two-lane road, and plenty of empty commercial space nearby.
Houston Levee Road Corridor Rezoning Proposal
A developer sought to rezone 53 idle acres along Houston Levee Road to employment mixed-use, sparking debate over whether the surrounding area is truly walkable or primarily residential. Commissioners ultimately recommended denying the straight rezoning due to a lack of a specific end-user and concerns over neighborhood compatibility.
Billboard Regulations and Removal Policies
Discussions on whether adding accessory EV equipment to an industrial site triggers the removal of a 40-year-old billboard, highlighting tensions between property rights and city anti-blight goals.
Slider Inn Major Modification & Structure Legitimacy
The Slider Inn sought to keep its popular outdoor cabana and seating area in the South Main Historic District. While planning staff recommended removing the temporary structure, the board ultimately voted to let it stay, supporting the vibrant neighborhood vibe.
Jackson Pit Landfill Redevelopment and Environmental Remediation
The city approved industrial vehicle storage on a former landfill site on East Shelby Drive, triggering heavy pushback from neighborhood residents over traffic, environmental history, and neighborhood compatibility.
Gas Station Proximity to Residential Areas
Residents and board members raised concerns about placing a new gas station close to homes, citing traffic, noise, and safety issues.
Correctional Facility Zoning Regulations
Residents and council members united to pass zoning amendments preventing jails and prisons from being placed in neighborhoods like New Chicago without strict city council review.
Proposed Whitehaven Convenience Store and Gas Station Permit
Developers wanted to build a new convenience store with gas pumps at Raines and Mill Branch Roads, promising $3 million in property upgrades. However, residents and planning staff opposed it, arguing the area already has too many gas stations and that traffic would threaten kids near a nearby elementary school.