Public asked to sound off on Urbanna short-term rentals

The Urbanna Planning Commission is taking an in-depth look at the town’s ordinance on short-term rentals (STRs), and has asked for citizen input through a five-question online survey.

“We are not alone in finding it challenging to balance interests in preserving the residential quality of our neighborhoods, our important historic area, our very small commercial footprint, supporting tourism, and providing economic opportunity for residents,” said Urbanna Town Councilor Merri Hanson, who also serves as chairman of the planning commission.

Citizens are asked to reply no later than Wednesday, Aug. 30.

Those who have questions should email Merri Hanson at m.hanson@urbannava.gov.

Ordinance

The town council approved an STR ordinance in October 2020. In April 2023 it came to light that some town STRs are operating without a $25 town permit and have not met other requirements, Town Treasurer Michele Hutton told council. In April, Hutton told council the town has 11 short-term rentals, and six of them are not in compliance with the town ordinance. Enforcement is difficult and time consuming, Hutton said. 

In her research, Hutton learned that short-term rentals nationwide have increased by 800% since 2011, she said.