Minutes - Council - 08/10/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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6. PUBLIC HEARING 6.01: Review Ordinance #21-17 Amending Rental Licensing Requirements to Include Short-Term Rentals Presentation Senior Planner Chloe McGuire Brigl reviewed an Ordinance to amend Chapter 26 of the City Code to include short-term home rentals for companies like Airbnb and VRBO, which are becoming more popular. She added City Staff have received requests for information from many residents who want to rent out their homes. She noted a rental license of $25 for a 3-year period is required for homes that are rented out, which is very minimal compared to other nearby communities. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated, for purposes of clarification in the Code, a rental license is required for a short-term rental, as well as an updated rental application. She added tents and yurts are not allowed under State Building Code. She noted this would be a broad and general update to the City Code, and City Staff can look at additional options. She noted the Planning Commission reviewed this issue at their last meeting, and recommended City Council approval of the Ordinance. Councilmember Heineman asked whether establishing this policy will make it easier for residents to use organizations like Airbnb and VRBO to rent out their homes. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl confirmed this, adding people call City Hall to ensure that the homes they want to rent are legally licensed. Councilmember Heineman asked whether a resident who has a yurt or geodome could have it reclassified as a separate structure, and potentially be licensed to rent as a rental. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated City Code allows only one dwelling unit per property, so an additional structure would not be allowed. She added this would include tiny homes or “mother- in-law” suite on an individual property. She noted the Planning Commission requested that City Staff do some additional research on this issue for as a separate case. Councilmember Specht stated he would support making the process less restrictive and simpler for residents to work with organizations to rent their homes. Councilmember Musgrove requested clarification regarding rent moratoriums due to Covid-19, and how they might potentially be affected by this proposed Ordinance. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated City Staff had not considered the moratorium in connection with this Ordinance. She added she would consult with the City Attorney. She noted, as the Ordinance relates to short-term rentals of not more than 30 days, the Ordinance would not supersede the State’s moratorium. City Council / August 10, 2021 Page 4 of 11