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Selectboard debates short‑term‑rental ordinance aimed at limiting multi‑unit vacation conversions
Summary
A proposed short‑term‑rental ordinance intended to curb rapid development of properties for short‑term rentals — especially multi‑building sites — drew questions about scope and grandfathering; board agreed to seek a consultant and hold public comment before any legal drafting is finalized.
The Sandgate Selectboard on July 20 discussed drafting a short‑term‑rental ordinance to address residents’ concerns about property owners rapidly developing sites for short‑term rentals, particularly parcels with more than one building.
Jessica Pendleton, a Selectboard member, said she had contacted a Sunderland Selectboard member for the name of a consultant that town used to create its ordinance and proposed inviting that consultant to speak with Sandgate’s board. John Phelps, a Selectboard member, cautioned that the Selectboard should avoid overreaching and said he was concerned the ordinance could affect longtime residents who already rent their properties. Board members repeatedly emphasized that grandfathering existing rentals should be protected.
Sheila Kearns, representing planning/zoning interests at the meeting, explained that existing zoning bylaws set multiple checkpoints — including septic and business permit requirements — and that some large or motel‑style developments would already trigger business permitting. Kearns noted the proposed fee schedule includes an after‑the‑fact permit fee set at 50% of the original permit cost and a waiver provision for extenuating circumstances; she asked the board to approve or suggest amendments to that schedule.
Board members asked for clearer definitions to distinguish incidental home rentals from commercial campground‑style operations and how the town would enforce rules if property owners began construction without permits. Rob Viglas said a dedicated ordinance would give the town recourse in cases where owners bypassed the full zoning approval process. The board agreed any draft would be subject to public comment and legal review by the town attorney before adoption.
Next steps: the Selectboard agreed to continue the STR discussion at a future meeting, attempt to arrange a presentation from the Sunderland consultant, and to solicit input from local residents who operate short‑term rentals.
