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Council to amend rental definition in borough code to broaden permit requirement
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Summary
Councilors recommended directing the solicitor to amend chapter 66 (housing and property maintenance) to use a stricter definition of "residential rental dwelling unit," making more properties subject to the $44 rental-permit requirement and inspections.
West Chester councilors agreed Jan. 14 to direct the solicitor to amend Chapter 66 (Housing and Property Maintenance) to clarify and tighten the definition of "residential rental dwelling unit." The amendment removes ambiguous language about family members and similar exceptions so that units occupied by someone other than the owner are captured more consistently.
Councilors said the stricter definition is intended to improve safety and ensure properties that function as rentals are inspected and permitted. Under the change, a dwelling where the owner does not live full time would be considered a rental, making the property subject to the $44 rental-permit fee and required inspection.
A councilor noted existing language included an "and/or" clause that created a gray area for relatives and informal arrangements; the proposed amendment would remove that clause. Councilors moved the item to the Jan. 15 consent agenda for final action.
