County looks to tighten regs on short-term rentals

by CHRIS PETERSON
Editor | August 23, 2023 2:00 AM

Flathead County has taken steps to revise short term rental zoning regulations, most notably capping the number of rentals in certain zoning districts.

Under the draft regulations, the county will allow no more that two short-term rentals in areas zoned AG-80, AG-40, AG-20, SAG-10, SAG-5, R-2.5, R-1, R-2, R- 3, RC-1, BS, AL, LBL, LL, LS, RL, and WV districts.

R1, for example, is single-family residential. However, two or more short-term rentals may be established in R-4, R-5, RA-1, and B-5 use districts.  Those districts are areas that allow high density housing. R-4, for example, allows 15 dwelling units an acre already.

The draft regulations also set quiet hours for short-term rentals and parking. For example, a short term rental inside a person’s principal dwelling unit, must have a minimum of two off street parking spots and a short-term rental within the guest houses or accessory dwellings shall have a minimum of two off-street parking spaces in addition to the requirements for the principal dwelling, the new regulations note.

If a dwelling has four bedrooms or more, one additional off-street parking space is required. The new regulations also allow the county to rescind permits for rentals either temporarily or permanently, either administratively or through the county Board of Adjustment, depending on the circumstances.

Short-term rentals also can’t have large signs, under the new regulations. They’re limited to one square foot and must be located on the property.

“Information displayed on the signage shall be limited to the name of the property owner, the property address, or the property management company associated with the short-term rental,” the regulations note.

The commissioners already approved the draft regulations and they have been out for public comment.

The regulations do not apply to the Canyon Area Land Use Regulatory system noted county planner Erin Appert.

Changes to those regulations are being done separately. There have been a few instances of conflicts between neighbors and landowners concerning short-term rentals over the years, some of which have led to lawsuits. County commissioners are expected to vote on the final regulations next month.