Commission Proposes New Definitions for Short Term Rentals in Borough Code

The Kodiak Island Borough Planning and Zoning Commission convened on August 13, 2025, to review proposed amendments to short-term rental definitions, a topic that has been under discussion in previous work sessions. The meeting focused on refining the definitions to clarify the types of short-term rentals permitted within the borough.

The commission began by discussing the need for an overarching definition of short-term rentals, which would categorize them into five distinct types, labeled STR 1 through STR 5. STR 1 pertains to rentals of up to two guest rooms in an owner-occupied dwelling, ensuring that the owner is present during the rental period. STR 2 expands this to a maximum of five guest rooms, aligning with existing boarding house definitions but removing the previous allowance for up to 15 guests to avoid confusion.

STR 3 is defined as a short-term rental of a dwelling unit in single-family or two-family residential zones, regardless of the owner's presence. STR 4 addresses rentals in multi-family residential zones, requiring approval from the condominium association before operations can commence. Lastly, STR 5 refers to bed and breakfast establishments, which may offer up to five guest rooms and optional meals, maintaining alignment with state definitions.

The commission also discussed the implications of these definitions on existing boarding houses, noting that the current code lacks clarity regarding the number of guests allowed. A suggestion was made to either redefine the guest room capacity or to create a new definition for "sleeping room" to resolve conflicts within the existing code.

Further discussions highlighted the lack of active boarding houses in the borough, with only one currently permitted. The commission agreed to conduct additional research on the status of boarding houses and their definitions, with plans to revisit the topic in September.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that the proposed definitions would enhance clarity for the public and streamline the regulatory framework for short-term rentals in Kodiak Island Borough. The commission aims to finalize these definitions and present them in a resolution for the next meeting, ensuring legal review and community compliance.