Planning Board debates commercial use of ADUs for short-term rentals

The Plymouth Zoning Board meeting on July 1, 2025, sparked significant discussion regarding the potential conversion of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) into a tourist home, raising concerns about zoning regulations and community impact. The board deliberated on whether the proposed change would require a special exception and a site plan review, as commercial conversions typically do.

Key points of contention included the intended use of the ADU, which was originally meant for familial occupancy. Board members expressed apprehension about allowing a permanent change that could set a precedent for future applications, potentially leading to an influx of similar requests from other ADU owners seeking to operate tourist homes. One member highlighted the importance of considering how the application would be viewed if the building were not already established as an ADU, suggesting that the current status should not influence the decision on its new use.

The discussion also touched on the density of the proposed tourist home, which would accommodate only one or two guests, and whether this low occupancy would mitigate concerns about increased traffic or neighborhood disruption. However, some board members remained skeptical, emphasizing that the original legislation permitting ADUs did not envision their use as short-term rentals.

As the board weighed the implications of their decision, they recognized the balance between property rights and community standards. The outcome of this deliberation could significantly shape the future of zoning regulations in Plymouth, particularly concerning the use of ADUs for commercial purposes. The board's decision will be pivotal in determining how the community navigates the intersection of residential and commercial interests moving forward.