Council advances amendments to short‑term lodging rules; bed‑and‑breakfast homes reclassified

The Common Council moved and approved an ordinance amendment June 11 that changes how short‑term lodging types are regulated in city code.

The ordinance removes “bed and breakfast home” and accessory apartment as separate uses in the city code; the council clarified how existing inns and larger owner‑managed facilities will be treated. Planning staff explained there are currently no active special permits for bed and breakfast homes; one existing bed and breakfast inn special permit can continue to be renewed. For properties that fit the bed‑and‑breakfast‑inn definition, staff said owners will remain eligible for the special‑permit process. For smaller owner‑managed operations that previously fell under “bed and breakfast home,” the change means operators would apply under the short‑term rental permit process instead.

The motion to advance the ordinance was moved by Alderperson Britzio and carried unanimously in committee, 10–0. Planning staff told the committee the change was intended to reduce redundant code language and to align city regulation with how operators and the market currently function.

What it means: Existing bed‑and‑breakfast inns with special permits can seek renewal. Properties currently operating as small owner‑managed short‑term rentals will be regulated through the short‑term rental permitting pathway rather than by a bed‑and‑breakfast‑home special permit.

Next steps: The ordinance will be included on the council agenda for final enactment in accordance with the city’s legislative schedule.