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Pawlet zoning administrator reports 33 permits, urges bylaw review on guest houses and ADUs
Summary
Pawlet's zoning administrator said the town has issued 33 permits to date, sent 16 short-term rental registration notices, and recommended the planning commission consider bylaw changes to address guest houses and possibly expand accessory dwelling unit (ADU) size; a separate tree-removal grant of up to $25,000 was highlighted.
Nancy Morlino, Pawlet's zoning administrator, told the Planning Commission on Nov. 25 that the town has issued 33 permits so far in 2024 and that she has sent 16 registration notices to short-term rental owners.
She described a "Tree grant" targeted to disadvantaged communities that can fund up to $25,000 for tree removal; the grant requires photographs of problem trees and removal quotes from an arborist. Morlino said the grant could help residents address hazardous trees but did not specify application timing or which properties would be prioritized.
Morlino also raised zoning questions tied to property owners seeking to build guest houses. "There is nothing in the zoning regarding [guest houses]," she said, and suggested the commission consider whether the bylaws should be revised. Commissioners discussed options including potentially expanding the allowable size of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) but did not take a formal vote or set draft language.
The commission did not take formal action on bylaw changes at the Nov. 25 meeting; members asked staff and commissioners to review the current advanced energy and zoning plans and return with suggested bylaw language at a future meeting.
