Notice of Public Hearing - Proposed Protective (Zoning) Bylaw Concerning Short Term Rentals

Notice of Public Hearing

Proposed Protective (Zoning) Bylaw

concerning Short-Term Rentals

Fire House Conference Room

205 Norfolk Rd, Southfield

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

 6:00 pm

The Planning Board will present information, answer questions, and hear comments on this proposed protective bylaw.

Berkshire communities are seeing a proliferation of properties dedicated to short-term rental (“STR”) usage, including individual investors converting housing stock specifically for STR investment and scaled corporate ownership and management which, if allowed to expand without limitation, could impact the character of New Marlborough.  The purpose of a proposed general bylaw concerning short-term rental properties is to (i) define a STR; (ii) limit the commercialization of STR in New Marlborough; (iii) require owners of STR to comply with health and fire code requirements; (iv) minimize neighbor disruption; and (v) protect the quiet rural character of the New Marlborough.

Any person interested or wishing to be heard on this subject should appear at the time and place designated to express their views. 

A link to the full text of the proposed general bylaw concerning short term rentals is included here:  Proposed Protective Zoning Bylaw--STR