Committee requires conditional-use review when multiple condo units on a parcel are rented
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Summary
The ad hoc committee voted that condominium properties where more than one dwelling unit will be rented must seek a conditional-use permit from the condominium association, with application to county zoning for review.
The Sawyer County Multi Dwelling Development Ad Hoc Committee voted to require a conditional-use permit (CUP) process when multiple dwelling units on a condominium parcel are being rented.
Committee members approved a motion that when more than one dwelling unit on a condominium property is to be offered as a rental, the condominium association must apply for a conditional-use permit so the county can evaluate impacts and impose conditions if appropriate. The motion passed on a voice vote.
Jay, the county zoning staffer, told the committee that condominiums are a form of ownership rather than a use or structure under county code; that makes them challenging to address because changing ownership does not always trigger zoning review. Several members said they have seen "old resorts" converted to condominiums where multiple owners independently rent units, creating what members described as a practical resort use without a single owner applying for review.
Committee discussion focused on enforcement and process. Members discussed whether the association, rather than an individual owner, should apply for the CUP; the committee amended the motion to specify that the condominium association should be the applicant. Members also discussed thresholds for association approval (for example, a required percentage of owners to authorize an application) and asked staff to draft proposed ordinance language clarifying whether the requirement applies retroactively to existing condo rentals or only to new or expanded rental activity.
The committee said the conditional-use process would allow zoning to impose measurable conditions (for example, occupancy limits, screening, parking, or hours of operation) and to avoid neighborhood conflicts that can arise when some condo owners rent frequently and neighbors object.
ACTIONS: Motion (mover: not specified) that when more than one dwelling unit on a condominium property is to be rented, the condominium association must apply for a conditional use permit; seconded (not specified); motion passed (voice vote; tally not specified). Staff will draft ordinance language addressing thresholds, retroactivity, and procedures.
Ending: Zoning staff will draft proposed ordinance language, and the committee scheduled follow-up work and a May 1 meeting to continue unresolved items.
