Board Decides On Short-Term Rental Regulations In Milford

MILFORD, CT — The Milford Board of Aldermen voted Monday to approve a new ordinance regulating short-term residential rentals after a lengthy public debate that drew passionate comments from both supporters and opponents.

The ordinance, which creates an annual licensing system for short-term rentals such as Airbnb and Vrbo properties, passed by a 9-6 vote after amendments were added during the meeting.

Read more: Debate Over Short-Term Rentals Draws Strong Opinions In Milford

Residents packed the meeting to debate whether short-term rentals are harming neighborhood quality of life or providing an important source of income and tourism for the city.

Several property owners argued there was little evidence short-term rentals create more problems than traditional homeowners or long-term tenants.

One property owner questioned whether the city had documented violations specifically tied to short-term rentals and what the purpose of the regulations would be.

Others echoed concerns that the ordinance unfairly targeted rental owners. Another property owner said complaints against short-term rentals often rely on broad assumptions rather than documented evidence.

Supporters of the ordinance said regulation was necessary to preserve neighborhood character and address recurring complaints about parking, noise and overcrowding.

One supporter of regulations said increasing numbers of short-term rentals reduce opportunities for young families to move into Milford neighborhoods, especially near beaches.

“There’s homes like directly across the street from me,” he said. “There is a house that was turned into an Airbnb. It had been a good neighborhood to have young families move into.”

Another supporter of regulations said residents were seeking “clear, enforceable” standards for short-term rentals operating in residential neighborhoods.

During board discussion, Alderman Winthrop Smith Jr. proposed two amendments that were approved unanimously. One removed a requirement for hosts to collect and maintain guests’ personal identifying information after concerns were raised about privacy and legal issues. The second exempted accessory dwelling units from the ordinance.

City Attorney Jonathan Berchem said that the ordinance was intended as a “balanced approach” following months of public input. He said the measure requires annual registration and a $50 fee while providing enforcement mechanisms for health and safety violations.

Some aldermen changed positions after hearing public testimony. Alderman Winthrop Smith III said around he initially supported the ordinance but ultimately opposed it after reviewing concerns raised by residents.

View the full meeting by clicking here.

Read more: Board To Vote On Massive School Overhaul Proposal In Milford

Details Released On Return Of Lobster Roll Festival In Milford