The  billionaire owner of a California newspaper publisher wants to build a 6,600 square foot car shelter to store his collection.

Vijay Mallya, proprietor of Marinscope papers, is famous for buying Mahatma Ghandi's eyeglasses, sandals and pocket watch for a whopping $1.8m.

His museum-worthy collection includes historic and rare automobiles by Jaguar, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo and Mercedes Benz.

Models include a 1960 Mercedes Benz 300 SL Roadster, and 1966 Ferrari 365 California Spyder and a 1929 Ford Model A Roadster.

Mr Mallya wants to build the facility to house his cars and other businesses, including boat repair and storage areas, on a vacant lot near Dunphy Park in Sausalito.

He also wants to improve Dunphy Park by extending the lawn area, creating a more inviting area around the existing wetlands area by installing benches and a walkway.

However, not everyone may see Mr Mallya's plans as a Ghandi-like gesture.

His project is likely to encounter challenges during the lengthy permit process which will consider environmental impact, design reviews and final building stages.

Public hearings commenced last week in Sausalito, and will continue until September 9.