Tequesta Village Council updates vacation rental ordinance to enhance safety standards

The Village of Tequesta's Planning and Zoning Board convened on March 20, 2025, to discuss significant updates to local regulations regarding vacation rentals and mobility planning. The meeting primarily focused on Ordinance 03-25, which amends existing vacation rental regulations to align with state building and fire prevention codes.

The ordinance aims to clarify inspection protocols for vacation rentals, ensuring compliance with safety standards. Key updates include the removal of outdated requirements and the introduction of new stipulations, such as the necessity for a landline or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone service for rental properties. This change reflects the growing trend of homeowners opting out of traditional landlines.

Board members expressed concerns about public awareness of vacation rentals in the area, noting that many residents are unaware of the existing regulations and the presence of rentals like Airbnbs in Tequesta. The discussion highlighted the state's preemption of local regulations, which limits the ability of municipalities to restrict the frequency or duration of rentals but allows for safety inspections.

In addition to the vacation rental ordinance, the board introduced a new mobility plan in partnership with the Palm Beach County Transportation Planning Agency. This initiative aims to enhance transportation options within the village, focusing on roads, biking, and pedestrian pathways. The board emphasized the importance of public input, noting a successful turnout at a recent community event where residents shared their thoughts on mobility issues.

The meeting concluded with a recommendation to approve the vacation rental ordinance, which passed unanimously. The board plans to continue discussions on the mobility plan in future meetings, encouraging residents to contribute ideas and feedback to improve transportation safety and accessibility in Tequesta.