City of Laconia home rentals

[Red apple]

Looks like they are cracking down on rental homes in Laconia. Letters going out to homeowners that rent by the week or night saying to stop or you will be fined $275/day. In order to keep renting you have to go to the city and apply for a zoning change. They state that renting is in violation of the city’s zoning ordinance and site plan regulations. Watch out everyone doing weekly rentals and Air B and B...


Sent from my iPad using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

[swnoel]

Originally Posted by Red apple

Looks like they are cracking down on rental homes in Laconia. Letters going out to homeowners that rent by the week or night saying to stop or you will be fined $275/day. In order to keep renting you have to go to the city and apply for a zoning change. They state that renting is in violation of the city’s zoning ordinance and site plan regulations. Watch out everyone doing weekly rentals and Air B and B...


Sent from my iPad using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

Velcome comrades... we will stop these people! This is just another disgusting overreach of threat then force by government.

[Biggd]

People have to rent out their property in Laconia just to help pay their tax bills. Just another reason I would never buy property there.

[garysanfran]

Quite a few are for Bike Week. Quite a few are weekly vacation rentals on The Lake. Wonder what Laconia is going to do about people who want to vacation there?

[TiltonBB]

The zoning issue is half the battle for rental home owners.

As soon as you register with the City and acknowledge that you rent your property you will be monitored to be sure that you pay the 9% rooms and meals tax. Approved seasonal operators must file reports for each month of their approved season, even if no tax is due.

What's next? An increase in your assessed value because you are able to rent your property and generate income from it. That will make your property more valuable.

And so it begins...................

[Red apple]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

The zoning issue is half the battle for rental home owners.



As soon as you register with the City and acknowledge that you rent your property you will be monitored to be sure that you pay the 9% rooms and meals tax. Approved seasonal operators must file reports for each month of their approved season, even if no tax is due.



What's next? An increase in your assessed value because you are able to rent your property and generate income from it. That will make your property more valuable.



And so it begins...................

The 9% tax letters went out from the state earlier this year. They went on all the rental web sights and then sent letters to all in NH that has a room or house for rent. Even if you had it listed and didn’t rent it you got a lovely certified letter from the state...


Sent from my iPad using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

[TiltonBB]

From The Laconia Daily Sun:

The city Planning Department has started enforcement actions

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...bf83024ba.html

[AC2717]

Another reason that makes Laconia a laughing stock of the area

[Descant]

NH has a good plan with regard to Interest and Dividends Income Tax. If you only make so much, you don't owe the tax, AND the form says please don't file if you don't owe. We don't wan the extra paperwork. If I rent my camp for only a coupe of weeks, and the income to the state is minimal,. considering cost of administration, why bother?

[TiltonBB]

Originally Posted by Descant

NH has a good plan with regard to Interest and Dividends Income Tax. If you only make so much, you don't owe the tax, AND the form says please don't file if you don't owe. We don't wan the extra paperwork. If I rent my camp for only a coupe of weeks, and the income to the state is minimal,. considering cost of administration, why bother?

You are confusing income tax with rooms and meals tax. A 9% tax is assessed upon patrons of hotels (or any facility with sleeping accommodations), and restaurants, on rooms and meals costing $.36 or more. You will owe (unless you rent your camp for less than 36 cents) from the first dollar. The tax is due on the 15th day of the month following the taxable period.

The tax is paid by the consumer and collected by operators of hotels, restaurants, or other businesses providing taxable meals, room rentals, and motor vehicle rentals.

Approved seasonal operators must file reports for each month of their approved season, even if no tax is due.

[Descant]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

You are confusing income tax with rooms and meals tax. A 9% tax is assessed upon patrons of hotels (or any facility with sleeping accommodations), and restaurants, on rooms and meals costing $.36 or more. You will owe (unless you rent your camp for less than 36 cents) from the first dollar. The tax is due on the 15th day of the month following the taxable period.

The tax is paid by the consumer and collected by operators of hotels, restaurants, or other businesses providing taxable meals, room rentals, and motor vehicle rentals.

Approved seasonal operators must file reports for each month of their approved season, even if no tax is due.

I/m not confusing anything. The point is, there should be a set level where you don't pay any tax and you are not required to file anything. Quoting the law is the opposite approach. The law should be changed, not enforced to the point of being a money loser for small occasional rentals and state administrators.. The comparison to the I & D tax was only to the reduced paperwork (NO FILING) for many citizens.

[MAXUM]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

You are confusing income tax with rooms and meals tax. A 9% tax is assessed upon patrons of hotels (or any facility with sleeping accommodations), and restaurants, on rooms and meals costing $.36 or more. You will owe (unless you rent your camp for less than 36 cents) from the first dollar. The tax is due on the 15th day of the month following the taxable period.

The tax is paid by the consumer and collected by operators of hotels, restaurants, or other businesses providing taxable meals, room rentals, and motor vehicle rentals.

Approved seasonal operators must file reports for each month of their approved season, even if no tax is due.

So I rent my place for 15 cents per week and charge a $1500 non refundable damage and cleaning deposit I'm good?

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

So I rent my place for 15 cents per week and charge a $1500 non refundable damage and cleaning deposit I'm good?

They'd make you prove that the cost of your repairs and cleaning were at least $1,500/week. They'd probably hit you up for the tax on the $0.15 also.

Yup...Laconia has lots of addictions!

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

From The Laconia Daily Sun:

The city Planning Department has started enforcement actions

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...bf83024ba.html

There are several property owners near me that rent their places out during the summer to pay the property tax.

So if Meredith adopts this and a couple of neighbors complain, my neighbors will be forced to sell and if more towns adopt this, what happens to the summer tourist industry? What happens to the restaurants and other tourist supported businesses? Bayside Rentals (specializing in renting single family homes short term)? If this is carried to an extreme would only hotels and motels be "allowed" to rent to tourists and vacationers? Or is that the design?

In my little mind the problem isn't short term renters, it's noise, which can be generated by long-term renters as well. Maybe even a home owner themselves being a bad neighbor!!! What about that barking dog? Biker with a loud Harley? Enforcement against noise makes more sense to me than taking income away from someone because there is a possibility the short-term renter could be noisy (chances are they'll be gone in a week. A noisy home owner/resident is permanent. Not gone in a week).

Some day I'll write a book..."The Unintended Consequences".

Ehhh, probably not!

[AC2717]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

There are several property owners near me that rent their places out during the summer to pay the property tax.

So if Meredith adopts this and a couple of neighbors complain, my neighbors will be forced to sell and if more towns adopt this, what happens to the summer tourist industry? What happens to the restaurants and other tourist supported businesses? Bayside Rentals (specializing in renting single family homes short term)? If this is carried to an extreme would only hotels and motels be "allowed" to rent to tourists and vacationers? Or is that the design?

In my little mind the problem isn't short term renters, it's noise, which can be generated by long-term renters as well. Maybe even a home owner themselves being a bad neighbor!!! What about that barking dog? Biker with a loud Harley? Enforcement against noise makes more sense to me than taking income away from someone because there is a possibility the short-term renter could be noisy (chances are they'll be gone in a week. A noisy home owner/resident is permanent. Not gone in a week).

Some day I'll write a book..."The Unintended Consequences".

Ehhh, probably not!

its actually a state tax and is enforced by the state and the town (started a hard push on it just about over two years ago when the letters 1st started to come out to those pubilically announcing they are renting online), and Laconia is helping the enforcement and taking it a step further by making the people in residential areas apply for a variance to operate a "Rental business" in a residential area because zoning laws technically do not allow it, and they could deny it. They don't have any other major problems to deal with in the town.

Those in other zones like Commercial or Commercial Resort (example would be the old motels and cottage rental places that are now condos and in this zone) that rent their residential properties out do not need to apply for the variance for Laconia but they still need to file with the state and collect the tax according to the law.

[WinnisquamZ]

This issue would have been everyone’s little secret if the owners of the properties in question addressed their neighbors concerns. If I understand the law correctly, each summer home that rents, know of three on my street must apply for a variance to continue to rent. Who will be enforcing this bylaw?


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

[TiltonBB]

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

Who will be enforcing this bylaw?
Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

First: I agree that this response to an isolated problem is overkill. Noise complaints and a police response would have been sufficient.

But, as to the question of who will enforce it? A few years ago I made repeated complaints to the Laconia Planning Department about repeated flagrant violations of the city's zoning laws. I submitted pictures that documented the violations. As a result of the complaints, the former Planning Director had letters sent to the violator with instructions to stop the violations. The violations continued.

I met with the former Planning Director demanding fines and court action. She informed me that they could not take any court action because they had not taken court action in the past with previous unrelated violators. Her contention was that they could be sued by the current violator because they had ignored previous violators. Huh? Does that mean you can never enforce the zoning regulations because you have never enforced the zoning regulations?

Subsequently, the City Manager told her to not have any further discussions with me and stop taking my calls and ignore my emails.

So, I guess that means you can do whatever you want because Laconia refuses to enforce it's zoning regulations

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

First: I agree that this response to an isolated problem is overkill. Noise complaints and a police response would have been sufficient.

But, as to the question of who will enforce it? A few years ago I made repeated complaints to the Laconia Planning Department about repeated flagrant violations of the city's zoning laws. I submitted pictures that documented the violations. As a result of the complaints, the former Planning Director had letters sent to the violator with instructions to stop the violations. The violations continued.

I met with the former Planning Director demanding fines and court action. She informed me that they could not take any court action because they had not taken court action in the past with previous unrelated violators. Her contention was that they could be sued by the current violator because they had ignored previous violators. Huh? Does that mean you can never enforce the zoning regulations because you have never enforced the zoning regulations?

Subsequently, the City Manager told her to not have any further discussions with me and stop taking my calls and ignore my emails.

So, I guess that means you can do whatever you want because Laconia refuses to enforce it's zoning regulations

A way to collect the $275/day fine, however.

What an incredible story you've shared here.

[Mr. V]

People in Laconia who use the internet to rent their properties out should not be heard to complain about having to pay the same tax that motel/resort owners pay.

Fair is fair.

[Red apple]

Originally Posted by Mr. V

People in Laconia who use the internet to rent their properties out should not be heard to complain about having to pay the same tax that motel/resort owners pay.

Fair is fair.

I would say the people renting have no issue (OK maybe some) paying the state and town tax fees like a Hotel/Motel. In fact VRBO does have a line item you can add your tax to and the renter will be billed as a added expense. The major issue I see here is that the town will only "go after" people that have complaints against them. So if I don't like the neighbor down the street because ...and he rents his house out i just make a phone call to the town and wham he is screwed.. I just don't think that is right it should a a law or not a law.

[AC2717]

Originally Posted by Red apple

I would say the people renting have no issue (OK maybe some) paying the state and town tax fees like a Hotel/Motel. In fact VRBO does have a line item you can add your tax to and the renter will be billed as a added expense. The major issue I see here is that the town will only "go after" people that have complaints against them. So if I don't like the neighbor down the street because ...and he rents his house out i just make a phone call to the town and wham he is screwed.. I just don't think that is right it should a a law or not a law.

sort-of sounds like the Gustapo:

[8gv]

The city becomes aware of the illegal renting via the complaint.

That requires fewer hours of investigative time.

It's the low hanging fruit.

With enough media attention and a few first hand "I got fined" testimonials, I would expect greater compliance would follow.

If the ordinance is inappropriate citizens can bring pressure to bear on their elected representatives.

Failing that, one could run for office.

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by 8gv

The city becomes aware of the illegal renting via the complaint.

That requires fewer hours of investigative time.

It's the low hanging fruit.

With enough media attention and a few first hand "I got fined" testimonials, I would expect greater compliance would follow.

If the ordinance is inappropriate cotizens can bring pressure to bear on their elected representatives.

Failing that, one could run for office.

"Illegal renting"...

The illegal activity should be the noise, not the renting. I love it when the proposed solution for those in opposition to Govt. policy is that the citizens can vote them out...or..."One could run for office" themselves!

Crap! One issue politics.

I can't wait for my fellow voters to become educated, and I don't have the time to hold office myself...Besides I live in California and, I suppose, should not have an opinion on this local subject.

[joey2665]

It should be an even playing field. If patrons staying at a motel/hotel short term must pay the 9% occupancy tax then so should patrons of short term rentals of all kinds no matter if it is through a broker, website of advertisement. People renting their vacation homes should not have an upper hand over a business that has invested in their property and community as an on going concern.

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by joey2665

It should be an even playing field. If patrons staying at a motel/hotel short term must pay the 9% occupancy tax then so should patrons of short term rentals of all kinds no matter if it is through a broker, website of advertisement. People renting their vacation homes should not have an upper hand over a business that has invested in their property and community as an on going concern.

I go through Bayside Rentals for any rental activity and they handle all of this for me. Pay the tax. Keep the noise level low.

If I pay my tax, but the neighbors complain about noise, should I be disallowed from renting?

An ongoing behavioral problem at a rental property, after the police have dealt with the occupants, and got no satisfaction, should become the landlord's problem. The neighbors then file a negligent landlord complaint against the landlord. Problem in San Francisco is that rent control limits what a landlord can do about behavioral problems. And this is a City with some real behavioral problems.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

I go through Bayside Rentals for any rental activity and they handle all of this for me. Pay the tax. Keep the noise level low.

If I pay my tax, but the neighbors complain about noise, should I be disallowed from renting?

An ongoing behavioral problem at a rental property, after the police have dealt with the occupants, and got no satisfaction, should become the landlord's problem. The neighbors then file a negligent landlord complaint against the landlord. Problem in San Francisco is that rent control limits what a landlord can do about behavioral problems. And this is a City with some real behavioral problems.

No you should not. If the tenants are violating any local ordinance then they should be the ones that are fined.

[8gv]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

"Illegal renting"...

The illegal activity should be the noise, not the renting. I love it when the proposed solution for those in opposition to Govt. policy is that the citizens can vote them out...or..."One could run for office" themselves!

Crap! One issue politics.

I can't wait for my fellow voters to become educated, and I don't have the time to hold office myself...Besides I live in California and, I suppose, should not have an opinion on this local subject.

Well what does one do if one's elected representatives are not upholding or striking down ordinances that one finds of interest?

Is there a lawsuit to be had?

Shall one storm the castle with pitch forks?

Everyone can have an opinion.

Not everyone has standing.

[garysanfran]

I don't know...

Wondering if Lowes sells pitch forks...

[upthesaukee]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

I don't know...

Wondering if Lowes sells pitch forks...

They do, and after 30 days you can return it for a refund of your money. And don't forget to stop by Wal-Mart to get one of their $4.97 noodles on sale, which can be cut up and used as protection for the sharp prongs on the pitchfork. Safety first... Yabadabado !

Dave

[radar4401]

I don't live in Laconia but have seen problems with rentals in other areas. I have a slightly different opinion. The state has to raise money for a variety of programs. When people rent a vacation home, they are no different than a B & B as far as I'm concerned. If people don't pay the room tax, it means that other taxpayers have to pay that much more. Problems with renters has nothing to do with people paying the tax. Vacation homes are nothing different than different than a business when they rent it out.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by radar4401

I don't live in Laconia but have seen problems with rentals in other areas. I have a slightly different opinion. The state has to raise money for a variety of programs. When people rent a vacation home, they are no different than a B & B as far as I'm concerned. If people don't pay the room tax, it means that other taxpayers have to pay that much more. Problems with renters has nothing to do with people paying the tax. Vacation homes are nothing different than different than a business when they rent it out.

Absolutely agree. Also more often than not the tenants are not from New Hampshire so residents of the state are really not paying the tax non resident visitors are.


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

[8gv]

To separate the issues...

In some areas renting is not legal.

Some people rent their property and don't collect tax.

Some renters misbehave.


The city is trying to resolve these issues.



In other news...

Alaska had an earthquake making some roads impassable with winter a few weeks away.

[Redbarn]

There seems to be a little confusion by some.

The city's new rule has nothing to do with the state meals and rental tax. This is strictly a state issue. You are expected to display your license # in all ads and collect the 9% and pay it to the state. The city does not enforce or get involved in this. The state does actively look at rental website and check and see if people do have a license.

The cities New rule is about zoning, and if short term rentals are a permitted use in the zone. Also the article does Not state a very important point. Short term rentals are allowed in the CR and SFR zones. So really this new rule is just to prevent short term rentals in the downtown area. It does not apply to most of the shore front and Weirs, since they are CR and SFR. So most vacation rentals are not effected.

If I were the city I would ask that the article point this out. I see this creating a lot of phone calls come spring from feuding neighborhoods who think they can report their neighbors.

[Outdoorsman]

And yet your tax rate keeps going DOWN

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...211ac6db9.html

[greeleyhill]

Originally Posted by Outdoorsman

And yet your tax rate keeps going DOWN

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...211ac6db9.html

The tax rates may have gone down but the valuations on lakefront homes (only on lake front homes) in Laconia went up close to 20% last year. Hard for me to celebrate a reduced tax rate under those circumstances.

[8gv]

I found it interesting to listen to the radio news story saying that the Laconia tax rate went down.

What matters is the tax bill.

Mine went up.

[kjkam]

Most people did, unless you were a business in the region, example valuation of the naswa went down almost 15%, as the result of a 30% reduction in the value of the land, imagine that they figure the land that the naswa sits on is equal in value to that of a 1/4 acre single family lot on paugus bay

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by greeleyhill

The tax rates may have gone down but the valuations on lakefront homes (only on lake front homes) in Laconia went up close to 20% last year. Hard for me to celebrate a reduced tax rate under those circumstances.

Its raising the pants or lowering the shirt. No matter what they achieve their goal and end up will increasing our property tax.

[Major]

Board denies requests for variances.

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...fef0cb552.html

[Red apple]

Originally Posted by Major

Board denies requests for variances.

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...fef0cb552.html

I see appeals and lawsuits coming for the City! A quick search this morning and there are over 70 rentals online in Laconia from one night, weekly and monthly. Another search there are many other towns and city's in the US with the same concerns and many have lost and the homeowners were allowed to due as they were with rentals. There has to be a happy medium so the homeowners and towns can agree. Living in the Lakes Region were rentals are popular and people spend anywhere from $2500-$25,000 per week and I as a homeowner would like to know if the money was needed I could rent our homes.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by Major

Board denies requests for variances.

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...fef0cb552.html

Another reason why I left Long Bay. I am very familiar with 7 Rose Point as I was just around the corner. Those condos, along with the condo next door to my single family home have seen short term rentals for many years and from first hand ID I can tell you there were no issue I have seen.

This is again the sub HOA's within Long Bay and the city council overreaching their boundaries that continue to hamstring homeowners. Long Bay, Southdown and all the sub HOA's rule and regulation you to death. Yes HOA's need rules but they always take it a set too far which is again why I left. I am now in a different HOA that is much more reasonable with its rules.

[TiltonBB]

This regulation is a huge mistake for the city and a knee jerk reaction to isolated incidents.

The Lakes Region has a long history of rentals and it is a great way to introduce new visitors to the area. They bring cash, support local businesses, and enjoy all that the area has to offer. Many will return year after year and some will end up buying property either as a vacation home or even a full time home. It makes no sense to place unnecessary restrictions on property owners. Some property owners are only able to hang on to their homes because of the financial help that renting provides.

The homeowners associations can deal with their communities and when that does not apply anyone can make a noise or disturbance complaint to the police.

The amount of problems reported does not seem to have risen to the level that a new regulation was needed in the "Live Free or Die" state. And, the house that was at the root of the problem has been sold to someone who does not intend to rent it.

I hope that there is a reconsideration of this and the city reverses this action.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

This regulation is a huge mistake for the city and a knee jerk reaction to isolated incidents.

The Lakes Region has a long history of rentals and it is a great way to introduce new visitors to the area. They bring cash, support local businesses, and enjoy all that the area has to offer. Many will return year after year and some will end up buying property either as a vacation home or even a full time home. It makes no sense to place unnecessary restrictions on property owners. Some property owners are only able to hang on to their homes because of the financial help that renting provides.

The homeowners associations can deal with their communities and when that does not apply anyone can make a noise or disturbance complaint to the police.

The amount of problems reported does not seem to have risen to the level that a new regulation was needed in the "Live Free or Die" state. And, the house that was at the root of the problem has been sold to someone who does not intend to rent it.

I hope that there is a reconsideration of this and the city reverses this action.

I don't have property in Laconia but this sets a bad precedent for other communities to follow.

[Irish mist]

Laconia NEVER fails to disappoint in so many ways. Absolute mismanagement of the city on every level.

[Major]

Originally Posted by joey2665

Another reason why I left Long Bay. I am very familiar with 7 Rose Point as I was just around the corner. Those condos, along with the condo next door to my single family home have seen short term rentals for many years and from first hand ID I can tell you there were no issue I have seen.

This is again the sub HOA's within Long Bay and the city council overreaching their boundaries that continue to hamstring homeowners. Long Bay, Southdown and all the sub HOA's rule and regulation you to death. Yes HOA's need rules but they always take it a set too far which is again why I left. I am now in a different HOA that is much more reasonable with its rules.

I've lived full time in Long Bay for 10 years and prior to that in South Down part time for 7 years. I am against renting in Long Bay, especially on a weekly basis. My feeling is that if you can't afford a second home without renting on a weekly basis, you shouldn't own. Historically, renting was allowed to enable those who can't afford a second home to afford one. However, now that South Down and Long Bay are nearly fully developed, that need does not exist. There seems to be an ample amount of people who can afford second homes. Weekly rentals should not be allowed in a residential environment.

My wife and I use the Long Bay beach often, and we can definitely tell who are renters. 75% are decent and nice, and the remaining 25% are somewhat obnoxious. I would prefer not having to put up with the 25% at all.

My experience with the Long Bay and South Down rules and regulations have been minimal. I don't think they over manage, but we have a tendency to stay in our lane.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by Major

I've lived full time in Long Bay for 10 years and prior to that in South Down part time for 7 years. I am against renting in Long Bay, especially on a weekly basis. My feeling is that if you can't afford a second home without renting on a weekly basis, you shouldn't own. Historically, renting was allowed to enable those who can't afford a second home to afford one. However, now that South Down and Long Bay are nearly fully developed, that need does not exist. There seems to be an ample amount of people who can afford second homes. Weekly rentals should not be allowed in a residential environment.



My wife and I use the Long Bay beach often, and we can definitely tell who are renters. 75% are decent and nice, and the remaining 25% are somewhat obnoxious. I would prefer not having to put up with the 25% at all.



My experience with the Long Bay and South Down rules and regulations have been minimal. I don't think they over manage, but we have a tendency to stay in our lane.

I completely disagree on many levels. First of all I was a board member on a sub HOA in Long Beach for 10 years and without a doubt they overregulate you on many issues from small building issues to paint colors to nonsense about golf carts etc. etc. as far as renting goes, It’s my house and as long as my tenants abide by the rules of the HOA’s then there’s no reason why I shouldn’t be able to have short term tenant. I don’t believe the boards have a right to tell me I can and cannot rent again as long as the tenants stay within the regulations and rules if they violate the rules fine there should be some type of penalty for the owner which I have no problem with


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

[Major]

Originally Posted by joey2665

I completely disagree on many levels. First of all I was a board member on a sub HOA in Long Beach for 10 years and without a doubt they overregulate you on many issues from small building issues to paint colors to nonsense about golf carts etc. etc. as far as renting goes, It’s my house and as long as my tenants abide by the rules of the HOA’s then there’s no reason why I shouldn’t be able to have short term tenant. I don’t believe the boards have a right to tell me I can and cannot rent again as long as the tenants stay within the regulations and rules if they violate the rules fine there should be some type of penalty for the owner which I have no problem with


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

If I live in a residential neighborhood, I would not want weekly rentals. That is why such rentals are zoned out of residential neighborhoods. Long Bay is a residential neighborhood. If you lived on Holman Street in Laconia, zoning laws would prohibit you from renting weekly. Long Bay should be no different. Obviously, there is no issue when tenants comply with the rules. Issues arise when tenants don't comply. Threats and fines are inadequate recourse for when issues arise, and unfortunately, the occur far too often.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by Major

If I live in a residential neighborhood, I would not want weekly rentals. That is why such rentals are zoned out of residential neighborhoods. Long Bay is a residential neighborhood. If you lived on Holman Street in Laconia, zoning laws would prohibit you from renting weekly. Long Bay should be no different. Obviously, there is no issue when tenants comply with the rules. Issues arise when tenants don't comply. Threats and fines are inadequate recourse for when issues arise, and unfortunately, the occur far too often.

Yes but this was allowed until recently. As someone whose neighbor rented weekly in LB and being on a board in LB there were little to no complaints at all. In fact most of the complaints reported were in regards to owners violating rules, not tenants

[Major]

Originally Posted by joey2665

Yes but this was allowed until recently. As someone whose neighbor rented weekly in LB and being on a board in LB there were little to no complaints at all. In fact most of the complaints reported were in regards to owners violating rules, not tenants

Just because it was allowed doesn't necessarily mean it was the right thing to do. As the owner of a small business, the last thing I want to hear my employees say is that "we always did it that way." In this case, it was probably a bad idea to allow weekly rentals, but was tolerated to encourage people to purchase properties. That time has passed. I'm just one vote, but I'd vote against it.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by Major

Just because it was allowed doesn't necessarily mean it was the right thing to do. As the owner of a small business, the last thing I want to hear my employees say is that "we always did it that way." In this case, it was probably a bad idea to allow weekly rentals, but was tolerated to encourage people to purchase properties. That time has passed. I'm just one vote, but I'd vote against it.

I owned a small business also for 30 years. Your missing my point, the law should have never been changed, you are restricting my rights as a landowner. There were just are not enough complaints to justify the change, this came over one specific incident and the rest are now paying for it. Laconia is a vacation destination and now you are limiting visitors who rent homes on a weekly basis so the home will just sit empty when there could be renters that patron the businesses around the lake.

[swnoel]

Originally Posted by Top-Water

Meaningless IMHO

From the article: The numbers that really mean anything are below.
This fiscal year, the amount to be raised by taxes for the city, schools and the county was more than $44 million, compared to $42.8 million in the previous fiscal year.

1.2 million dollar increase.

Just read an article about Manchester, 72% of property tax payers did NOT have a child in the school system! That's frightening and I wonder what those percentages are in other cities and towns?

[TiltonBB]

The Manchester number of taxpayers (72%) who did not have a child in the school system is an interesting fact.

I don't know if anyone has ever taken the time to figure it out but it would be interesting to know the percentage of tax revenue in the lake front towns that comes from non voting (non-resident) taxpayers. The Manchester statistic is the number of taxpayers, the dollar numbers would tell a different story.

[tis]

The so called rich towns which include the towns around the lake better watch the legislature. They are again talking about making us pay even more in taxes to help out the "poorer" towns. If they come up with anything like they did last winter our taxes will increase a lot!

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by tis

The so called rich towns which include the towns around the lake better watch the legislature. They are again talking about making us pay even more in taxes to help out the "poorer" towns. If they come up with anything like they did last winter our taxes will increase a lot!

Maybe the 9% room tax on short term rentals would help. At least it mostly comes from tourists and not residents and seasonal residents.


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

[DUFF821]

I don't live in Laconia, but what about the people that have to live next to these rentals? It's a terrible feeling living next to strangers every weekend. People are more concerned with paying taxes than they are for their neighbors safety and piece of mind. Would you want to live next to one of these rentals or is it a "not in my backyard" mentality. It's time for regulations on short-term rentals regardless of the zoning.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by DUFF821

I don't live in Laconia, but what about the people that have to live next to these rentals? It's a terrible feeling living next to strangers every weekend. People are more concerned with paying taxes than they are for their neighbors safety and piece of mind. Would you want to live next to one of these rentals or is it a "not in my backyard" mentality. It's time for regulations on short-term rentals regardless of the zoning.

I am in Laconia and have been in two different neighborhoods with rentals next door. I have never really had a major issue, asked one to tone it down a little once. Remember these are homes mostly near or on the lake and many owners are non residents like myself. Besides many of the gated communities around the lake already allow and have short term rentals

[kauriel]

We previously owned a condo and I personally thought the weekly renters were much better behaved than the longer term winter renters. We never had an issue with the weekly summer renters but had some issues with noise and odor with winter renters. Hopefully the city can find ways to minimize disruptions from both types of renters instead of just focusing on those that may be bringing in tourism.

[garysanfran]

Originally Posted by DUFF821

I don't live in Laconia, but what about the people that have to live next to these rentals? It's a terrible feeling living next to strangers every weekend. People are more concerned with paying taxes than they are for their neighbors safety and piece of mind. Would you want to live next to one of these rentals or is it a "not in my backyard" mentality. It's time for regulations on short-term rentals regardless of the zoning.

Guess you never lived in a City?

I know less than 50% of my neighbors. Lots of them are renters. Some of them I know "of" from afar and don't want to get to know them any closer. No matter where you live, you can have problem neighbors...Some could be owners and not renters. A bad weekly renter will be gone in a week. A bad home owner may be there forever.

Why are renters here getting this bad rap? They're all people and not all people behave the same. Is it the 9%?...Pay it.

Two years ago I had a neighbor, on the Lake, rent their place to some folks from Russia. They were GREAT! Loved their company better than the permanent owners. I have another permanent neighbor I would gladly trade for an unknow weekly.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by garysanfran

Guess you never lived in a City?

I know less than 50% of my neighbors. Lots of them are renters. Some of them I know "of" from afar and don't want to get to know them any closer. No matter where you live, you can have problem neighbors...Some could be owners and not renters. A bad weekly renter will be gone in a week. A bad home owner may be there forever.

Why are renters here getting this bad rap? They're all people and not all people behave the same. Is it the 9%?...Pay it.

Two years ago I had a neighbor, on the Lake, rent their place to some folks from Russia. They were GREAT! Loved their company better than the permanent owners. I have another permanent neighbor I would gladly trade for an unknow weekly.

Most weekly renters are respectful, most not all, but many of the longer winter renters are not as nearly good.

[greeleyhill]

Originally Posted by Redbarn

There seems to be a little confusion by some.

The city's new rule has nothing to do with the state meals and rental tax. This is strictly a state issue. You are expected to display your license # in all ads and collect the 9% and pay it to the state. The city does not enforce or get involved in this. The state does actively look at rental website and check and see if people do have a license.

The cities New rule is about zoning, and if short term rentals are a permitted use in the zone. Also the article does Not state a very important point. Short term rentals are allowed in the CR and SFR zones. So really this new rule is just to prevent short term rentals in the downtown area. It does not apply to most of the shore front and Weirs, since they are CR and SFR. So most vacation rentals are not effected.

If I were the city I would ask that the article point this out. I see this creating a lot of phone calls come spring from feuding neighborhoods who think they can report their neighbors.

I was going to make the same point but reading through the thread, I see you beat me to it Really good clarification - thanks again!

[WinnisquamZ]

So will the neighbor that rejects a rental have to be identified? Appears to open up a case of harassment


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

[WinnisquamZ]

Agree, however, they also have the right to enjoy their space without being harassed by others. In my opinion If the city decides to identify these individuals they are making a mistake by putting neighbors vs neighbors


Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

[iw8surf]

I’ve totally forgotten what it’s like to “live free” in NH in this last decade..

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by iw8surf

I’ve totally forgotten what it’s like to “live free” in NH in this last decade..

There is no such thing as "live free", never has been.

[tis]

Unfortunately, Biggd, you are right!!

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by tis

Unfortunately, Biggd, you are right!!

If you are getting something for free it may be free to you but it's being paid for by someone else.

[tis]

LOL, Bigg, you are right! But I think in this case, he is talking about FREEDOM not free things. As in the freedom to do what you want with your own property... WE don't own our property anymore. If we ever did.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by tis

LOL, Bigg, you are right! But I think in this case, he is talking about FREEDOM not free things. As in the freedom to do what you want with your own property... WE don't own our property anymore. If we ever did.

We are all free to live in the USA as long as we pay all our bills. Even when you die someone has to pay the tab that you left behind!
Of course, if you don't pay your bills you go to jail and get free room and board. Then the rest of us have to pay the tab. Someone always pays, that's FREEDOM!

[tis]

Yep and in this case if you want to rent your property out you might or might not be able to!!!

[Red apple]

Oh you can rent it out....Until one person complains and yes they can do this anonymously and then you get a letter from Laconia saying to to cease and desist all rentals or you will be charged $250.00 per day. Actually not bad if your getting $10k a week! Then you can apply to go in front of the zoning board but good luck with them as they have shown there is no way to show a hardship for them to allow a rezoning. Its only a matter of time before someone with deep pockets hires the right attorney and finds a loophole to make this work. As far as state and local room taxes yes these should and need to be in forced. But now who is cheeking the home for safety items, bed bugs and everything else that hotel and motels get checked for?

[Woodsy]

I have no problem with short term rentals in places like the Weirs, where families have rented out their properties 2-3 weeks a year to help pay the taxes. it is 1-2 weeks a year and has been going on forever...

But....

The AirBNB/VRBO model is a business model. People (sorry TiltonBB) should not be buying houses in residential areas and running them like unlicensed no tell motels. This has a very adverse effect on the neighborhood... higher rents as commercial landlords take long-term housing off the market to cash in on more lucrative short-term rental opportunities, loss of revenue for legitimate, regulated hotels/motels. Loss of tax income (both room & meals & business) for the state & city etc etc....

The the AirBnb/VRBO landlords cite existing laws regarding noise, parking etc as adequate protection for neighborhood. But we also have existing laws regulating short term rentals on the books... that is the law that the AirBNB/VRBO folks want to forget exists. This law is just as important as the noise & parking ordinances and also exists to protect the neighborhood.

Woodsy

[TiltonBB]

Woodsy: No apology necessary, we can still be friends!

The problem with leaving most of it to the hotels and motels is that may not be the type of place families are looking for. Many families want the home experience from the kids sleeping in their "own" bedrooms to grilling and family dinners at the kitchen table.

In some situations, the atmosphere from a shared beach at a motel may not be what a family is looking for and by afternoon, with a lot of alcohol involved, it may present an unhealthy situation for children.

Many families get together and rent a home that will fit all of them and it would be cost prohibitive, and not provide the family experience they are looking for, at a motel. They can rent a house that sleeps the whole family for less than the cost of several motel rooms.

The contention that it has a very adverse effect on the neighborhood has not been my experience. On my street alone I am aware of several summer weekly rentals. Both from the street, and from the water, you would have no idea the property was not occupied by the owners.

I know of three local agencies that together rent over 300 waterfront homes as weekly rentals. I have used them. They take a commission and collect and pay the rooms and meals tax to the state.

One physician that rented my home called me after his vacation. It was his family's first time on the lake and they liked it so much they asked for a realtor recommendation to help them find a house. They bought a waterfront in Meredith.

We have all probably had difficult and noisy neighbors at one time or another. You have a good chance of having a neighbor whose conduct and noise you don't approve of. You have to live with it or make complaints to whatever local authority has jurisdiction and that neighbor may be there 52 weeks a year. In the event someone in your neighborhood rents to a problem tenant, they are gone in a week.

My situation may be different but I do not use AirBnB or similar sites, and I will not rent to anyone that I have not talked to first.

[pault842]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

Woodsy: No apology necessary, we can still be friends!

The problem with leaving most of it to the hotels and motels is that may not be the type of place families are looking for. Many families want the home experience from the kids sleeping in their "own" bedrooms to grilling and family dinners at the kitchen table.

In some situations, the atmosphere from a shared beach at a motel may not be what a family is looking for and by afternoon, with a lot of alcohol involved, it may present an unhealthy situation for children.

Many families get together and rent a home that will fit all of them and it would be cost prohibitive, and not provide the family experience they are looking for, at a motel. They can rent a house that sleeps the whole family for less than the cost of several motel rooms.

The contention that it has a very adverse effect on the neighborhood has not been my experience. On my street alone I am aware of several summer weekly rentals. Both from the street, and from the water, you would have no idea the property was not occupied by the owners.

I know of three local agencies that together rent over 300 waterfront homes as weekly rentals. I have used them. They take a commission and collect and pay the rooms and meals tax to the state.

One physician that rented my home called me after his vacation. It was his family's first time on the lake and they liked it so much they asked for a realtor recommendation to help them find a house. They bought a waterfront in Meredith.

We have all probably had difficult and noisy neighbors at one time or another. You have a good chance of having a neighbor whose conduct and noise you don't approve of. You have to live with it or make complaints to whatever local authority has jurisdiction and that neighbor may be there 52 weeks a year. In the event someone in your neighborhood rents to a problem tenant, they are gone in a week.

My situation may be different but I do not use AirBnB or similar sites, and I will not rent to anyone that I have not talked to first.

I have both rented my vacation home, in the past, and rented vacation homes in several different parts of the country over the years, that said if I was asked to vote on it at a town meeting, I'd vote it down for residential neighborhoods. Just my $.02.

[gokart-mozart]

Originally Posted by pault842

I have both rented my vacation home, in the past, and rented vacation homes in several different parts of the country over the years, that said if I was asked to vote on it at a town meeting, I'd vote it down for residential neighborhoods. Just my $.02.

There's another angle to this excellent discussion I would like to bring up.

I live all year round in a lakeside development. I have small children and I am as sensitive as anyone to neighbor quality.

I have never experienced an issue with short-term summer renters of my neighbors' properties. Maybe I've been lucky, maybe the $$ barrier helps with tenant quality.

On the other hand, rental of these properties for September-May (off season) tenancies has caused problems, some of them big problems, at least half the time. Maybe you get a teacher who is trying out the job and the area, but maybe you get small-time or not-so-small time drug operations or other noxious and potentially dangerous activities.

[Riviera]

Originally Posted by Red apple

Looks like they are cracking down on rental homes in Laconia.

There are many arguments to this debate. You have to look at some of the old/new assumptions:

1. Zoning. Zoning was established to assure that reasonably compatible land uses were/are located in contiguous geographic locations. As an extreme example, the goal was to avoid having a commercial junk yard located next to a permanent single family residence. As zoning evolved, the land uses were further segregated, such that uses akin to apartment buildings, or resort buildings, were/are not allowed next to single family residences.

2. Single Family Zoning. Many years ago, most communities developed a zone (or zones) that allow for "single family residential" zoning. Historically, the properties in these zones were utilized as "single family - owner occupied", or less commonly, "single family - monthly/yearly lease". Prior to such technology as AirBNB, it was rare that a property in a single family zoning district would be rented on a short term weekly or daily basis.

3. Zoning Purpose. The purpose of zoning was to allow property owners to purchase property in a location where they could have a reasonable expectation as to the neighboring uses. Very few people would want to establish permanent residency next to a junkyard. Zoning is a mechanism that allows a property buyer a reasonable expectation as to what sort of neighboring use they might expect. (Remember, nobody can pick their neighbor!)

4. Zoning Argument. At one extreme, there is, and always will be, a % of the population that will argue that their individual property rights should not be encumbered by zoning. That said, most people have a fundamental belief in zoning, even if they don't believe in the specific zoning ordinances that might encumber their own property.

5. Current Technology. The advent of websites such as AirBnB allows for the relatively simple marketing/purchasing of short term (weekly/daily) rentals in areas that previously saw few, if any, short term rentals. In some instances, these short term rentals are occurring in "single family" zoning districts that have not seen any short term rental (and little long term rental) use in years past.

6. A "Neighborhood" Perspective. People that live in most residentially zoned neighborhoods look at it from the perspective of their own personal home. Most of us (not all of us) live in an area that has, historically, been occupied by long term owners, or long term rentals. Most people are not accustomed to having their neighbors change on a weekly basis. For many people, the stability of neighboring properties allows for a certain degree of presumptive quiet enjoyment.

7. A "Property/Investment" Perspective. In the last couple of years, people are purchasing what has has historically been owner occupied property with a full/partial financial objective. The goal is to recognize a certain return on investment, through short term rental.

8. The Conundrum. A small, but rising, percentage of historically permanent residences in single family zones are being rented/occupied on a shorter term basis. If you buy your dream home in a "single family" zone, should you expect that your neighboring property might be rented to ever changing owners on a weekly/weekend basis? Conversely, if you buy a property in a single family zoned district, that does not have an zoning established minimum rental period, should you be limited in your financial right to rent the property on a short term basis?

There is no perfect answer to the conundrum, but I believe the City of Laconia is going to have a contend with a difficult task. The "it's only a problem if we hear a problem" approach is not going to work. There are too many personalities at stake to fairly implement this interpretation to the current zoning ordinance.

I am of the opinion that Laconia (and every other City with resort type appeal) is going to have to take a harder look at their ordinances, and set definitive allowable rental periods in the various zones. They may even need to expand their zones, allowing for the fact that certain "single family" neighborhoods (ie, Paugus Park .... with tight density single family waterfront) have been more prone to short term rentals in the past, and therefore may be more appropriate for short term rentals in the future. Conversely, I think that there should be other single family residential areas with tight restrictions on short term rentals, such that those buyers seeking a more stable occupied neighborhood, can buy in such a neighborhood, without the expectation that an adjacent home might be operated on a more commercial, short term basis.

Note that I know there are exceptions to every rule. I am certain that there are well intentioned/proactive owners of AirBnB type residences that can/will assure that their renters will be good neighbors. That said, there are those owners that will not be so proactive, and will create the occasional nuisance to the adjacent permanent residences.

The bottom line is that zoning can't regulate the people/personalities, they can only regulate the use. Communities are going to have to come to grips with the fact that they need to further define their use regulations, allowing for all of the economic and quiet enjoyment variables that go along with zoning ordinances.

My hope is that the officials will see fit to find a way to amend the ordinances, such that they allow some degree of economic benefit from the AirBnB type phenomenon, coupled with a strong commitment to creating stable quiet neighborhoods for long term residents.

No matter what they do, they are going to irritate a lot of people. They just need to look at it with a practical eye, and make the best possible business/political decision for the community.

[Biggd]

I understand both sides of this debate. I know many young people in the investment business that buy homes all around the country just to rent out. To these people it's just an investment. All they care about is ROI at the end of the year. These are the kind of neighbors you don't want.

I have an acquaintance that rents a large waterfront home on Winni every year with 2 other families with teen age children. They have to rent something big because there is usually about 12 to 15 people staying there and at times they could have as many as 25. They pay big bucks, around 10K a week, and they are usually asked not to come back because of neighbor complaints. But they still seem to find a new place to rent every year. He told me there are quite a few places on the water that have been bought by groups of investers just looking to rent out.
This is the sad part of property value appreciation. You have a lot of people that are buying just as an investment. There is no pride of ownership with these purchases.

[TiltonBB]

There are also companies like Inspirato that own luxury homes all over the world and rent them out. It requires a membership in Inspirato. I know someone who rented a house on Nantucket last summer and a week was $56,000. Not in my world!

https://www.inspirato.com/

I know every situation is different. I live next door to my rental house so if there are unruly or problem tenants I know right away. Since 2003 I have only had two groups that I would not rent to again because of their conduct. And, as soon as I knew it was a problem I was there addressing it. I know not every rental house situation is like that.

One thing that does filter out the problem tenants is the price of admission. It is not cheap to rent a house on the lake. I have had rental property (mostly not on the lake) since 1978 and my experience is that the higher the rent, the better caliber of the tenant.

[TiltonBB]

If the current Laconia laws prohibit short term rentals in areas zoned residential then one would assume that only "residential" uses are permitted in those areas.

1. If you store your boat on a trailer on your property I would assume that it is permissible in a residential zone. What about when a couple of people leave their boats on trailers at your house for the off season and pay you a few dollars. I would assume that makes it a commercial use of the property. Is that a violation and will the city enforce it?

2. If you have extra dock space at your house and you rent a slip or two to people you found on Craigslist will DES call that a marina? Does DES have any zoning laws? My understanding is the Laconia regulations, and all of the town regulations around the lake, only apply to the shoreline and anything on the water is up to the state.

3. If it is not permissible for private parties to rent out boat slips at the homes that they own in residential areas how does that impact the weekly renters who bring boats to the property that they rented and use the docks at that property?

So many questions. I wish I was smarter!

[birchhaven]

This is an issue all over the country and the rest of the lakes/mountains in NH. With all of Laconia's issues and they have a lot. Also the fact Laconia never seems to get anything right. Why are they trying to lead? No city has really come up with a good solution for this, Laconia should try and keep there head down so to speak. There is no way they are going to come up with the perfect solution that every city in the world is looking for, they are just going to either piss off a lot of people and/or devalue a bunch of properties. They are making the issue bigger than it is IMHO and should have just stayed out of the debate.

[Descant]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

If the current Laconia laws prohibit short term rentals in areas zoned residential then one would assume that only "residential" uses are permitted in those areas.

1. If you store your boat on a trailer on your property I would assume that it is permissible in a residential zone. What about when a couple of people leave their boats on trailers at your house for the off season and pay you a few dollars. I would assume that makes it a commercial use of the property. Is that a violation and will the city enforce it?

2. If you have extra dock space at your house and you rent a slip or two to people you found on Craigslist will DES call that a marina? Does DES have any zoning laws? My understanding is the Laconia regulations, and all of the town regulations around the lake, only apply to the shoreline and anything on the water is up to the state.

3. If it is not permissible for private parties to rent out boat slips at the homes that they own in residential areas how does that impact the weekly renters who bring boats to the property that they rented and use the docks at that property?

So many questions. I wish I was smarter!

I think the key word here is "season". Whether you put a boat in your yard or at your dock for the season, that can easily be translated to 6 months or more, not short term, not subject to Room and Meals tax.

If you rent your house and dock by the week in the summer, or for winter skiers, you have to live in a zone where that is permitted. Residential rental is still residential, not commercial. Laconia, and most towns, has a variety of zones. For example, you can have a one person hairdresser shop, CPA office, etc. in some places, not i n others. Sometimes subject to a public hearing and permission of the Planning Board or ZBA. As I understand this thread, most of Laconia shorefront is resort/residential and you can do short term rentals. The fly in the ointment came with some short term rentals in non-permitted zones that had been ignored for some years were discovered and complaints were brought to the city.
Due diligence when buying a house used to be "Is it a good school?" and Where's the bus stop?" Now, you have to learn what your neighbors are up to, what rules the HOA has, can I have a garage sale, can I cut my grass before 9:00 am? Best one is, can a Bike Week vendor rent my front yard?

[iw8surf]

Originally Posted by Descant

I think the key word here is "season". Whether you put a boat in your yard or at your dock for the season, that can easily be translated to 6 months or more, not short term, not subject to Room and Meals tax.

If you rent your house and dock by the week in the summer, or for winter skiers, you have to live in a zone where that is permitted. Residential rental is still residential, not commercial. Laconia, and most towns, has a variety of zones. For example, you can have a one person hairdresser shop, CPA office, etc. in some places, not i n others. Sometimes subject to a public hearing and permission of the Planning Board or ZBA. As I understand this thread, most of Laconia shorefront is resort/residential and you can do short term rentals. The fly in the ointment came with some short term rentals in non-permitted zones that had been ignored for some years were discovered and complaints were brought to the city.
Due diligence when buying a house used to be "Is it a good school?" and Where's the bus stop?" Now, you have to learn what your neighbors are up to, what rules the HOA has, can I have a garage sale, can I cut my grass before 9:00 am? Best one is, can a Bike Week vendor rent my front yard?

Off topic but a year back I went electric leaf blower, weed whacker and lawnmower for my smallish yard. I mow at 6 am now if I want, its almost silent! No more waking up the neighbors aha

[greeleyhill]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

If the current Laconia laws prohibit short term rentals in areas zoned residential then one would assume that only "residential" uses are permitted in those areas.

1. If you store your boat on a trailer on your property I would assume that it is permissible in a residential zone. What about when a couple of people leave their boats on trailers at your house for the off season and pay you a few dollars. I would assume that makes it a commercial use of the property. Is that a violation and will the city enforce it?

2. If you have extra dock space at your house and you rent a slip or two to people you found on Craigslist will DES call that a marina? Does DES have any zoning laws? My understanding is the Laconia regulations, and all of the town regulations around the lake, only apply to the shoreline and anything on the water is up to the state.

3. If it is not permissible for private parties to rent out boat slips at the homes that they own in residential areas how does that impact the weekly renters who bring boats to the property that they rented and use the docks at that property?

So many questions. I wish I was smarter!

What if someone, say a landscape contractor, runs their business out of their home? Is that allowed in single family residential area? What if they keep their commercial truck in their driveway or on the street with their logo displayed on the side? What if someone operates a small machine repair shop out of their garage, would that be allowed. How about a person teaching piano or guitar lessons out of their house? What if it were an electric guitar and they played with their windows open? All of these seem like legitimate business enterprises that folks would run out of their house - would these activities also be banned because of zoning laws?

[nitrovandam]

Originally Posted by greeleyhill

What if someone, say a landscape contractor, runs their business out of their home? Is that allowed in single family residential area? What if they keep their commercial truck in their driveway or on the street with their logo displayed on the side? What if someone operates a small machine repair shop out of their garage, would that be allowed. How about a person teaching piano or guitar lessons out of their house? What if it were an electric guitar and they played with their windows open? All of these seem like legitimate business enterprises that folks would run out of their house - would these activities also be banned because of zoning laws?

FOUR ( 4 ) What if's....... Typical Liberal ****. Try speaking the truths not the WHAT IF'S. You voted these liberals in, You know how they work. Tax Tax tax, and now you are complaining about it. LOL. Don't like it, Move back to the state you came from. Oops, sorry , forgot, it's even worse in your home state.
Love Love Love to see this happening. You vote these Democrats in, you get to deal with their Rath. Within a few years, NH will be as bad or worse as Mass, RI, Conn and NY. Guess you guys will fit right in then huh.

Please carry on now to RUIN NEW HAMPSHIRE even more.

[Woodsy]

I think this is a fair resolution to a difficult problem....

YES, it cuts into the Landlords profit margin, but it also levels the playing field between the short term rentals & existing hotels/motels in the area.

AIRBNB/VRBO/HOMEAWAY etc.. should also be collecting the 9% Meals & Rentals tax.


Woodsy

[Redbarn]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

I think this is a fair resolution to a difficult problem....

YES, it cuts into the Landlords profit margin, but it also levels the playing field between the short term rentals & existing hotels/motels in the area.

AIRBNB/VRBO/HOMEAWAY etc.. should also be collecting the 9% Meals & Rentals tax.


Woodsy

I get what they are trying to do but how does this solve any rental issues this just adds fees and government over cite. How does it stop noise complaints, trash etc. Checking smoke detectors etc is great but doesn't solve the neighborhood complaints.

[Red apple]

Originally Posted by Redbarn

I get what they are trying to do but how does this solve any rental issues this just adds fees and government over cite. How does it stop noise complaints, trash etc. Checking smoke detectors etc is great but doesn't solve the neighborhood complaints.

Well if I read it correctly if you as the "landlord" have three complaints against you or any of your renters you loose the right to rent. This is GREAT like I said from the start of this thread the city is leaving it up to your neighbors to decide if you can rent of not.. Look at Lake Opechee as there have been two cases if not more that have gone to the city for VRBO and have loss due to neighbors complaining and both of them have sold there homes. Have also heard of of more cases or Air B&B in the area going down the same road as neighbors are fed up with them also. So at the end of the day the City of Laconia will make some extra money in fees and the neighbors will have the final say if you rent of not. Start paying off your neighbors if you want to rent!!!

[Redbarn]

I don't see the 3 strikes in the article, where did you read that? Or do you have inside info?

[Red apple]

Originally Posted by Redbarn

I don't see the 3 strikes in the article, where did you read that? Or do you have inside info?

I will look back but read that last week in two different places. Also when was at the city meeting they told they person that got approved to rent this.

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by Red apple

I will look back but read that last week in two different places. Also when was at the city meeting they told they person that got approved to rent this.

Improbably erroneously assumed since it was not in the article that they were taking that portion out. As I stated in posts above you cannot let neighbors decide if a homeowner can or cannot short term rent their home or the obvious reasons like disgruntled neighbors ect.... Also I believe the short term renters are much more behaved than long term renters which would not be subject to this proposal at all.

[Woodsy]

Originally Posted by Redbarn

I get what they are trying to do but how does this solve any rental issues this just adds fees and government over cite. How does it stop noise complaints, trash etc. Checking smoke detectors etc is great but doesn't solve the neighborhood complaints.

There are 2 options here.... ban it completely (likely to end up in court) or regulate it.

This is a start.... They are addressing the parking issue. They are requiring a Fire Dept inspection. The KEY quote from the article...

"Approved applications must be renewed yearly and can be revoked for failure to follow the regulations. Fines can also be levied if someone operates a short-term rental in violation of the rules.

There will also be procedures for neighbors to complain about noise, trash, or parking problems associated with these rentals."

So there will be procedures in place for the neighbors if they have complaints.

Woodsy

[Redbarn]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

There are 2 options here.... ban it completely (likely to end up in court) or regulate it.

This is a start.... They are addressing the parking issue. They are requiring a Fire Dept inspection. The KEY quote from the article...

"Approved applications must be renewed yearly and can be revoked for failure to follow the regulations. Fines can also be levied if someone operates a short-term rental in violation of the rules.

There will also be procedures for neighbors to complain about noise, trash, or parking problems associated with these rentals."

So there will be procedures in place for the neighbors if they have complaints.

Woodsy

Understood. But why is doing nothing and enforce current trash, noise and building code laws, not an option?

HomeAway, Airbnb have been around a long time at this point and before that, you always had rental services. The short term rental problem is not nearly as big an issue in Laconia as it is said in NY or San Fran. Neither of those places has been able to solve the issue, why Laconia is trying to crack the Airbnb problem before the rest of the world is kinda crazy to me. When Laconia historically gets things wrong. Remember the article cited one complaint last year. So one complaint leads to every rental in Laconia getting new laws. Rental Places that have been rented for decades may no longer be allowed to due to a disgruntled neighbor. Seems they are solving a small problem that does not need solving, and they could just use existing laws and codes to get a fair outcome for all.

[Woodsy]

Originally Posted by Redbarn

Understood. But why is doing nothing and enforce current trash, noise and building code laws, not an option?

HomeAway, Airbnb have been around a long time at this point and before that, you always had rental services. The short term rental problem is not nearly as big an issue in Laconia as it is said in NY or San Fran. Neither of those places has been able to solve the issue, why Laconia is trying to crack the Airbnb problem before the rest of the world is kinda crazy to me. When Laconia historically gets things wrong. Remember the article cited one complaint last year. So one complaint leads to every rental in Laconia getting new laws. Rental Places that have been rented for decades may no longer be allowed to due to a disgruntled neighbor. Seems they are solving a small problem that does not need solving, and they could just use existing laws and codes to get a fair outcome for all.

If you enforce the current codes... Short term rentals are not allowed at all! So if a neighbor complains, the city has no choice but to shut it down. The city cannot just turn a blind eye to people who blatantly disregard the zoning laws.

With these new rules & regulations, it seems to me they take the "neighbor shutting you down option off the table". In order to do that, they are requiring people who do the short term rentals to follow some rules to make it a safe/better experience for both the renters and the neighborhood.

Woodsy

[Redbarn]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

If you enforce the current codes... Short term rentals are not allowed at all! So if a neighbor complains, the city has no choice but to shut it down. The city cannot just turn a blind eye to people who blatantly disregard the zoning laws.

With these new rules & regulations, it seems to me they take the "neighbor shutting you down option off the table". In order to do that, they are requiring people who do the short term rentals to follow some rules to make it a safe/better experience for both the renters and the neighborhood.

Woodsy

As I have said before, I don't see in the current zoning where it says it is not allowed, I have even asked the town. This is why it is commonly believed the new rule they are currently enforcing would losing in court. Like I said they should just stick to the rules on the books.

[Woodsy]

Originally Posted by Redbarn

As I have said before, I don't see in the current zoning where it says it is not allowed, I have even asked the town. This is why it is commonly believed the new rule they are currently enforcing would losing in court. Like I said they should just stick to the rules on the books.

Redbarn....

It took me all of 5 minutes to find it on the Laconia City website. Currently in the RS districts (Residential Single family) of Laconia...

Hotel/Motel/Inn = Not Permitted
Boarding/Rooming/Lodging = Not Permitted
Bed & Breakfast = Conditional Use Permitted

The City has and should enforce the existing rules! Under the existing rules the short term rentals are not allowed. The City is trying to reach a compromise that is fair to all....

I have attached the Zoning doc so you can see for yourself!

Woodsy

[Redbarn]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

Redbarn....

It took me all of 5 minutes to find it on the Laconia City website. Currently in the RS districts (Residential Single family) of Laconia...

Hotel/Motel/Inn = Not Permitted
Boarding/Rooming/Lodging = Not Permitted
Bed & Breakfast = Conditional Use Permitted

The City has and should enforce the existing rules! Under the existing rules the short term rentals are not allowed. The City is trying to reach a compromise that is fair to all....

I have attached the Zoning doc so you can see for yourself!

Woodsy

Short term rentals do not meet the definition of everything you just cited. We have gone through this before in this thread. I am out we are just rehashing the same things.

You keep pulling me back in haha. I don't care to comment anymore but you below post references boarding/rooming/lodging and then cites the hotel definition. All well and good but again you are mixing the current argument about the need for a variance in downtown and the need for this new thing in the current article. Hotels etc are permitted in for example the weirs. I also disagree with your view on the definition and There are work arounds. There is going be a lot of issues created from this in the weirs that did not existed before due to this. They should have left it alone.

[Woodsy]

Originally Posted by Redbarn

Short term rentals do not meet the definition of everything you just cited. We have gone through this before in this thread. I am out we are just rehashing the same things.

Sorry RedBarn.....

I get that you don't like it... However, Short Term Rentals is ABSOLUTELY the same as Boarding/Rooming/Lodging category used by the City.

NH RSA on the matter....

78-A:3 Definitions
III. "Hotel" means an establishment which holds itself out to the public by offering sleeping accommodations for rent, whether or not the major portion of its operating receipts is derived from sleeping accommodations. The term includes, but is not limited to, inns, motels, tourist homes and cabins, ski dormitories, ski lodges, lodging homes, rooming houses, furnished room houses, boarding houses, private clubs, hostels, cottages, camps, chalets, barracks, dormitories, and apartments.VII. "Permanent resident" means any occupant who has occupied any room in a hotel for at least 185 consecutive days. (i.e. short term = 184 or less) (motor vehicles are 180 days or less)

Here the proposal going to the full City Council & Planning board...

Woodsy

[nitrovandam]

The short term rental problem is not nearly as big an issue in Laconia as it is said in NY or San Fran. Neither of those places has been able to solve the issue, why Laconia is trying to crack the Airbnb problem before the rest of the world is kinda crazy to me. When Laconia historically gets things wrong.


LOL And what party runs NY and San Fran and Laconia? Are ya seeing a pattern here? Hence the DOWNFALL of The once great state of New Hampshire.
Carry on now, see what else you can ruin.

[covelife]

Originally Posted by pondguy

The arm of government that is to big. Way to many laws.

Yes, but wish they would do more to deal with the hoarders in town that use their properties as a junkyard!

[joey2665]

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

If the current Laconia laws prohibit short term rentals in areas zoned residential then one would assume that only "residential" uses are permitted in those areas.


So many questions. I wish I was smarter!

With the City of Laconia I would definitely not make that assumption. Especially since this is relatively new. I do know that many HOA's in the area do not allow business of any type to be run out of homes but the city itself does allow certain types of business to be run from the home. I inquired several years ago and I know I am allowing to run my CPA practice out of my home in Laconia but later found out my HOA does not allow it.

[Rusty]

https://www.laconiadailysun.com/news...9503ee281.html

The fourth time was the charm for people seeking city approval to operate a short-term rental in a residential neighborhood.