Wells Planning Board Discusses Short Term Rental Ordinance During Workshop

The Wells Select Board meeting on August 19, 2025, sparked significant discussions around the regulation of short-term rentals (STRs) in the town, highlighting the need for a structured ordinance. Board members emphasized the importance of establishing clear guidelines to manage STRs, which have become a contentious issue in many communities.

The meeting opened with a review of a toolkit provided by the host nation, which aims to assist in drafting a short-term rental ordinance. Board member Mike noted that the planning board had previously initiated discussions on this topic but had paused to reassess the broader implications of STR regulations. The consensus was that the town needs to determine whether to permit or prohibit STRs and, if permitted, in which zones they should operate.

A key point of contention was the definition of short-term rentals. While many communities define STRs as rentals of 30 days or less, there was a proposal to set a minimum rental period of one week. This raised concerns about the potential impact on local housing availability and life safety regulations. Board members debated whether to enforce a strict definition that could effectively ban rentals shorter than a week, which could limit options for visitors and seasonal workers.

The discussion also touched on the necessity of licensing for home businesses, with suggestions for a voluntary compliance period to encourage STR operators to register. This would help the town track STRs and ensure they meet safety standards. The board acknowledged the challenges of enforcement, particularly in distinguishing between legitimate rentals and those operating without oversight.

Another significant concern was the potential for large corporations to dominate the STR market, which could exacerbate the local housing crisis. Board members discussed the possibility of implementing caps on the number of STR licenses per zone to prevent monopolization and ensure that local families have access to affordable housing.

As the meeting progressed, the board recognized the need for a balanced approach that respects property rights while addressing community concerns about noise, safety, and housing availability. The conversation underscored the complexity of regulating STRs in a way that supports both the local economy and the needs of residents.

In conclusion, the Wells Select Board's discussions on STR regulations reflect a growing awareness of the challenges posed by short-term rentals. The board plans to continue refining its approach, with the aim of drafting a comprehensive ordinance that addresses the diverse needs of the community while ensuring safety and fairness in the housing market.