Short-term rentals continue to stir debate in Hampton, and City Council this week decided to make additional changes to how the businesses are regulated.
In June, the council revamped short-term rental rules by dividing the city into 51 zones and allowing only 1% of homes in each zone to operate as short-term rentals. On Wednesday, the council unanimously voted to create a new use called a “homestay rental” that only applies to residents who remain in their homes while renting a single room.
Homestay rentals are a separate category from short-term rentals and are not subject to the density and buffer requirements when a property owner rents out their entire home.
Council members had previously advocated for addressing homestay rentals separately from short-term rentals, saying they were too different to adhere to the same regulations.
Zoning Administrator Allison Jackura said homestays, which would be allowed in single-family dwellings, apply for guests living in a home for 30 days or less. Homestay rentals require a zoning administrator permit.