County Board Moves Forward with Controversial Short Term Rental Ordinance

In a recent government meeting, significant updates were discussed regarding the Tourist Rooming House (TRH) regulations in Sawyer County. The revisions aim to streamline existing rules while addressing local concerns about short-term rentals, which have seen a notable increase in recent years.

Key changes to the ordinance include the removal of redundant language that duplicated state codes, particularly concerning ingress and egress. New provisions were introduced to regulate recreational burning, mandating a setback of 125 feet for campfires. Additionally, the ordinance now includes specific guidelines for waste and recyclables management to mitigate issues with wildlife, such as bears and raccoons.

One of the most impactful changes involves the enforcement of noise complaints. The threshold for potential license revocation has been lowered from five calls in a year to three calls within a three-month period. This adjustment reflects a growing concern among residents about the disturbances caused by short-term rentals.

Ginny Choback, a local resident, emphasized the importance of the updated ordinance, highlighting that it has been crafted to suit the unique needs of Sawyer County. The ordinance aims to balance the interests of tourists and local residents, ensuring that the rights of those living in the area are respected while also promoting tourism, which is vital to the local economy.

The committee's discussions revealed that approximately 38% of TRH owners are believed to reside in Sawyer County full-time, with a significant number of licenses issued in recent years. The ordinance also requires property owners to notify neighbors within 300 feet of their rental activities, a standard practice in zoning regulations.

As the ordinance moves forward, it reflects a collaborative effort to address the complexities of short-term rentals in Sawyer County, aiming to protect both the community's tranquility and its economic interests. The full county board is expected to review the updated regulations soon, with hopes that they will be adopted to enhance the management of tourist accommodations in the area.