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Harris Township moves short‑term rental zoning language to planning commission for review
Summary
The board voted to send draft zoning language and terminology for short‑term rentals to the planning commission after staff and outside counsel revised draft regulations; residents urged action to close a regulatory gap.
Township staff told the board Sept. 8 that they are working with outside counsel to prepare licensing regulations for short‑term rentals and that the zoning ordinance must be amended to define and permit short‑term rental uses in appropriate zoning districts. The draft zoning language and terminology were sent to the planning commission for review and recommendations.
Longtime resident Kim Hamilton told the board she supported adopting a framework, saying neighboring municipalities have regulations and that a lack of local rules creates a "vacuum" that attracts operators. "It does change the nature of the neighborhood," Hamilton said, describing noise and extended stays near her home.
Staff explained that the zoning changes will define where short‑term rentals are permitted and that licensing/licensing details are being finalized with counsel; several board members stressed the need to coordinate numbers and operational thresholds with the solicitor so the planning commission’s recommendations align with the board’s intent.
The motion to send the zoning/terminology draft to the planning commission for review passed by voice vote. Staff said the planning commission’s recommendations would return to the board for policy decisions and ordinance drafting.
