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St. Martin Parish clears tourist homes in W-2 zoning, allowing short‑term rentals
Summary
The St. Martin Parish Council unanimously adopted an ordinance July 7, 2026 to allow 'tourist homes' (short-term rentals) as a permitted use in W-2 (Woodland/Floodplain - Recreational/Residential) zoning, a change Council Member Carla JeanBatiste said will let residents open Airbnbs in those areas.
The St. Martin Parish Council on July 7 adopted ORDINANCE NO. 26-07-1549-OR to amend Chapter 19 of the parish zoning ordinance and permit "tourist homes" in zoning district W-2 (Woodland/Floodplain - Recreational/Residential Uses).
Council Member Carla JeanBatiste said the change would allow residents in W-2 areas to open an Airbnb-type rental. Clerk of the Council Brooke Thibodeaux read the ordinance and recorded its adoption: "And the Ordinance was declared adopted this 7th day of July, 2026." The vote was unanimous.
The ordinance adds tourist homes to the list of permitted uses in W-2 alongside public and private campsites and temporary commercial amusement developments, while retaining existing lot-size and setback requirements. The change takes effect immediately upon the Parish President's signature.
Supporters said the amendment aligns W-2 with nearby zoning and expands tourism options; the record shows no public comments opposing the change during the hearing. Council members did not attach additional limitations (such as registration or occupancy caps) in the adopted text.
