The Metropolitan Planning Commission has taken the first step toward increasing regulation of vacation rentals, recommending the creation of a short-term residential rental definition in the zoning ordinance.
City staff, working with local residents and industry stakeholders, spent several months drafting the amendment to address an influx of vacation rentals downtown, many advertised through sites such as VRBO and Airbnb.
Commissioners, who postponed the measure last month, spent more than two hours debating the text before approving the amendment 8-3.
The amendment creates a specific definition for vacation rentals – separate from inns and bed and breakfasts – and designates zoning districts where it will be allowed. Parking requirements are outlined as well.
About seven people spoke during public comment, many of them historic district residents expressing concerns about quality of life issues.
Melinda Allen, a member of the Downtown Neighborhood Association, said the amendment does not address concerns about density, citing whole squares populated by vacation rentals.
“This amendment does not go far enough to stop the rampant growth,” said Allen.
City staff said matters of life and safety, tax revenue collection and enforcement will be tackled in a separate city ordinance currently being drafted.
Corey Jones, owner of Lucky Vacation Rentals, spoke in favor of the amendment, saying it would create a more level playing field for those involved.
“Are there bad apples here? Absolutely,” said Jones. “But from our position and our data, those bad apples are more directed to how that property is being managed. It’s all about how it’s being managed versus this use.”
The text amendment next goes to City Council for approval.
More information on the zoning amendment at: http://www.savannahga.gov/index.aspx?nid=1476