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Staff warns inspections could cost about $500,000 and require new staff
Summary
Oak Bluffs building inspector said that inspection protocols for short-term rentals would require substantial follow-up work and could cost approximately $500,000 to implement, prompting committee debate over whether inspections are justified.
Adam Petkus, speaking in his capacity as building inspector and zoning officer, told the committee that inspections associated with a short-term rental program would entail significant follow-up work — violations processing, certifications and continuing education — beyond initial site visits. Petkus said the 780 CMR guidance the committee reviewed "is not legally binding but represents recommended practices," and that inspections "would not be a revenue-generating endeavor and could cost approximately $500,000, including additional staffing requirements."
Members debated whether the town has a clear, validated safety justification for a full inspection program. Petkus emphasized that much of the workload comes after an inspection: follow-up, enforcement and certification. The committee did not vote on inspections on July 20; members directed staff to draft a bylaw outline that would include inspection protocols for further discussion at the July 27 meeting.
