Petersburg City Council votes on short term rental zoning amendment

The Petersburg City Council convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss significant changes to the city’s zoning ordinance, particularly regarding short-term rentals. This meeting highlighted the growing interest in regulating platforms like Airbnb and the implications for local residents.

One of the key discussions centered on the proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance that aims to define, permit, and regulate short-term rentals within the city. Currently, Petersburg lacks specific regulations for these types of rentals, which has led to concerns about safety, neighborhood integrity, and the potential commercialization of residential areas. The proposed regulations would require short-term rental operators to register with the city, comply with safety standards, and face penalties for non-compliance.

City officials emphasized the importance of creating a registry for short-term rentals to ensure accountability and safety. The proposed regulations include limits on occupancy, requiring that no more than six unrelated adults can stay in a rental at one time, and stipulating that rentals must be the primary residence of the owner to qualify for certain exemptions. The council also discussed the potential for a $500 violation fee for those who fail to register or comply with the new standards.

Public feedback during the meeting revealed a mix of support and concern among residents. Some community members advocated for the inclusion of residential zones in the short-term rental regulations, arguing that it could provide additional income for homeowners and help address the housing shortage in Petersburg. Others expressed worries about the impact of short-term rentals on neighborhood dynamics, citing issues such as noise, parking, and the potential for increased crime.

Council members debated the merits of the proposed regulations, with some suggesting that a special use permit should be required for short-term rentals in residential areas to maintain community standards. Ultimately, the council voted to approve the ordinance with an amendment that allows short-term rentals only with a special use permit, except when the property is occupied as the owner's primary residence.

As Petersburg prepares for the opening of a new casino, the council aims to ensure that the city can accommodate an influx of visitors while balancing the needs and concerns of its residents. The deadline for existing short-term rental operators to register is set for October 1, 2025, marking a significant step toward formalizing and regulating this growing sector in the community.