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Dennis committee asks staff to draft ban on short-term rentals in ADUs
Summary
The Dennis Zoning Bylaw Study Committee voted to ask staff to draft concise bylaw language that would prohibit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) from being used as short-term rentals, citing recent state ADU legislation and local housing concerns.
The Dennis Zoning Bylaw Study Committee voted on Aug. 22 to ask staff to draft simple zoning-language that would prevent accessory dwelling units (ADUs) from operating as short-term rentals.
Why it matters: Committee members said the recently enacted state ADU law creates pathways for small ADUs (under 900 square feet) that could be used as short-term rentals unless the town adopts local restrictions. Several members flagged drafting errors in the state text and urged the town to act quickly to preserve housing stock and to prevent further conversion of year-round housing to short-term rental markets.
What happened: A committee member moved that Paul (staff) prepare concise language addressing the group’s concerns and advance it to the planning board and select board in time for the town meeting warrant. Committee members discussed the calendar and the need for a public hearing; members noted timelines for advertising and for the select board’s warrant-signing process. The motion passed; members recorded affirmations during a roll-call-style confirmation.
Details and next steps: The committee discussed sample language (e.g., a provision that ADUs under 900 square feet in single-family districts shall not be used for short-term rentals) and asked staff to prepare a brief draft for the next stages: planning board review, public hearing, and select board placement on the fall town meeting warrant if timing allows. Committee members emphasized the option to postpone if legal review indicated conflicts with state law and requested staff check for statutory compliance before finalizing language.
What the vote means: The action directs staff to prepare draft bylaw language and does not itself change the zoning code. Any change would require the planning board’s recommendation, required public hearings, and a town meeting vote.
Who said what: Chair Sarah Bill led the discussion and members repeatedly stressed neighbor protection and timing constraints. One committee member offered to have staff draft the brief narrative and bring it forward; the motion carried in committee and staff will return with a draft for review.
