Planning commissioners approve recommendation for short‑term rental above garage; ask how 30‑day limit will be enforced

The Andover Planning Commission voted Oct. 27 to recommend approval of a special‑use request (Z‑SU25‑0003) to allow a room above a detached garage to be used as a short‑term rental. Applicant Ben Lawrence (505 N. Glendebaughn) described the unit as a roughly 1,000‑square‑foot, one‑bedroom apartment intended for traveling professionals.

Staff told the commission the lot is large, adequately separated from nearby residences, and that similar short‑term rentals exist on the local golf course; staff expressed no opposition to the special use. Commissioners repeatedly asked how a 30‑day occupancy limit would be enforced. "What happens is it's a zoning violation," staff replied when asked how the city would know if someone exceeded 30 days. Staff added such matters are typically complaint‑driven and that the city would not routinely monitor occupancy by daily checks.

Commissioners also confirmed the transient guest tax applies; 8.5% was cited in the hearing and staff explained that platforms such as Airbnb or VRBO typically capture and remit the tax to the state and convention and tourism board. Commissioner Gary moved to recommend approval based on the commission’s findings; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The recommendation will be forwarded to the governing body for final action.

Next steps: staff will transmit the commission’s recommendation to the governing body and the applicant should ensure collection/remittance of applicable transient guest taxes.