Selectboard authorizes interim registrations for short-term rentals under eight occupants

Christie Boswell, the town's STR Administrator, told the Selectboard she will submit proposed amendments to the short-term rental (STR) ordinance at the next meeting and said the Aug. 31 registration deadline was unrealistic. Boswell reported she had contacted State Fire Marshal Patrick Banks, who told her that fire and safety inspections are not required by the state for STRs with fewer than eight occupants unless an owner requests a formal inspection; owners may self-certify using state forms.

After discussion about bedroom-to-occupancy allocations under state rules (three-bedroom units permit up to six people; four-bedroom units permit up to seven people), Julie Isaacs moved to authorize Christie Boswell to immediately register applicants with fewer than eight occupants while the Selectboard proceeds with the 60-day ordinance amendment process; Elizabeth Grant seconded and the motion was unanimous. Grant stated she would not allow people in the vault on their own as part of licensing compliance and said, as Town Clerk, she had been advised by the Selectboard not to assist in vault-related matters.