City Council mandates short-term rental owner occupancy and distance regulations

During the recent Hudson City Council meeting on June 2, 2025, discussions centered on new regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) that aim to address community concerns about property occupancy and neighborhood integrity.

One of the key topics was the requirement for property owners to affirm their residency in STRs. Council members expressed the importance of ensuring that these homes are occupied by owners for a significant portion of the year. This measure is intended to prevent properties from being used solely as rental units, which can disrupt the residential character of neighborhoods. The council acknowledged the challenge of monitoring compliance, emphasizing the need for effective oversight to ensure that owners are genuinely living in their properties.

Another significant point of discussion was the establishment of a 300-foot distance requirement between licensed STRs. This regulation aims to limit the concentration of short-term rentals in close proximity to one another, which can impact the quality of life for residents. The council clarified that this distance is measured from property boundaries, not the actual residences, which could significantly affect the number of STRs allowed in densely populated areas, such as downtown Hudson.

Additionally, the council addressed the process for handling complaints related to STRs, stating that any issues raised by community members should be directed to the compliance officer in conjunction with the police department. This streamlined approach is designed to enhance responsiveness to community concerns.

As Hudson continues to navigate the balance between tourism and residential needs, these proposed regulations reflect a commitment to maintaining the character of neighborhoods while accommodating the growing demand for short-term rental options. The council's discussions highlight the importance of community input and the need for clear guidelines to ensure that both residents and visitors can coexist harmoniously.