Commissioners to discuss rentals

Public hearing set for changes to short-term and vacation rentals

Short-term and vacation rentals are back on tap when the Boulder County commissioners meet Tuesday.

County staff suggested changes to short-term and vacation rental rules earlier in the year. Some of the proposed changes include redefining short-term and vacation rentals, reducing the number of rental types, changing the review process for vacation rentals and capping the number of vacation rentals.

Residents have spoken both in favor and against proposed changes. A county document shows that 106 unlicensed shortterm and vacation rental properties exist in unincorporated areas.

The public hearing will be held at 1 p.m. Attendees may come in person to the Boulder County Courthouse, 1325 Pearl St., or attend virtually. Register to attend or speak virtually at bit.ly/3rbqw9a. Register to speak in person at bit. ly/3vhvner.

County staff members proposed the changes following a review of a 2020 update to the regulations that was presented in January, as well as feedback from community members, the Planning Commission and the Boulder County commissioners.

Ethan Abner, a Boulder County long-range planner, said the goals based on the review include balancing the need to preserve housing stock and address concerns from neighbors with allowing the economic activity desired by property owners.

“This is a really good try at trying to achieve that balance,” Abner said.

The changes would establish a single, streamlined process to review both short-term and vacation rental uses. Property owners who receive a license for either type of rental also would be required to immediately notify adjacent property owners.

“There is more certainty for