Planning Board declines new hosted short-term rental restrictions, sends LUO language to Town Attorney

The Washington Planning Board on Jan. 13 debated proposed hosted short-term rental rules and chose not to add new permitting requirements while directing staff to obtain legal review. During a working meeting at Town Hall, members questioned a proposed 20-mile rule for hosted rentals, whether a life-and-safety checklist should be filed with the Planning Board and whether the town would assume liability by requiring checklists.

Planning Board member Richard Caffrey said the town has had one "official" STR complaint and that one person has sought a permit; he proposed sending his memo and proposed LUO wording to the Town Attorney. Member John Cashorali objected to broad restrictions, saying in the discussion that the board risked "legislating for a small minority" and complained that rules appeared directed at younger residents, adding, "we are treating people like lesser beings." Several members, including Piatt and Schwartz, urged legal review before adopting new requirements.

Peel raised RSA 78-A (rooms and meals tax) during the discussion and warned about potential liability if the town required and relied on a checklist. Member Nan Schwartz suggested limiting requirements to having hosts complete a life/safety checklist; Cashorali said he preferred a public workshop to educate owners rather than adding regulatory language. After discussion, Martin moved that the STR section remain unchanged; Caffrey seconded the motion and the vote was 4 to 1 in favor. The board unanimously agreed to run proposed LUO wording and Caffrey’s research past the Town Attorney before the public hearing.

The LUO hearing on the proposed changes is scheduled for the Planning Board meeting on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Town Hall. The board did not adopt new filing or permitting requirements for hosted STRs at this meeting; any final change will depend on the attorney’s review and subsequent public process.