Planning Commission forwards revised short-term rental ordinance to council amid parking and enforcement concerns

The Clawson Planning Commission voted on April 22 to forward an amended short-term rental ordinance to city council after a public hearing and detailed discussion of parking, enforcement and unit-level notices.

Staff presented the revised draft that removes a council-opposed fence requirement and adds language clarifying what is not considered a short-term rental. Commissioners raised local enforcement concerns after staff identified an existing short-term rental near Guardian Angels that regularly draws multiple parked cars, sometimes onto grass and across sidewalks. Commissioners debated the parking standard in the draft — which currently requires one parking space per three occupants — and discussed whether that level ensures adequate off-street parking for high-occupancy stays.

On operational controls, commissioners asked that each permitted unit post a visible welcome sheet listing local ordinances and relevant information (trash day, leash and licensing requirements, overnight parking restrictions) to improve guest awareness. Planning staff said the welcome sheet and a reference list of local codes are included in the draft and will be provided to renters if the ordinance is adopted. Commissioners also discussed inspection frequency; staff noted inspection authority belongs in a police-powers ordinance rather than zoning but that the commission’s rationale recommending an inspection regime would accompany the draft sent to council.

Commissioner (unnamed #5) moved to recommend the zoning amendment to council as revised; the motion was seconded and, after additional discussion about parking and enforcement, passed on roll call. The commission recorded six votes in favor and two abstentions; staff will forward the ordinance and the commission’s rationale to city council for final action.