WEST VALLEY CITY — Elected officials voted unanimously Tuesday against requiring gravel driveways to be paved, thereby reversing a 2005 decision meant to clean up neighborhoods.

The vote followed about an hour of testimony and several public meetings during which West Valley residents complained that paving requirements would be costly and unfair to longtime residents.

The decision overturned a proposal by city staff and recommendation by the Planning Commission to require paved driveways, with several exceptions.

A handful of residents said the ordinance, as proposed, was unconstitutional.

"I feel like this is an infringement on my rights, turning me into a criminal," said Mike Hovey, saying West Valley shouldn't turn his neighborhood into a homeowners association. "I don't agree with the city doing this stuff to people."

Other residents were in favor of the ordinance, saying well-kept yards and parking areas increase property values.

"My sweat is very free," said Mike Markham. "I don't mind getting out and working in my yard. We need to strive for a tidy city."

Markham said during the public hearing that he would be OK with unpaved driveways if they are well-maintained.

Although the new rules don't require paving, they require gravel surfaces to have hard borders and be 4 inches thick. Homeowners are also required to keep driveways free of grass and weeds.

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