Politics & Government
Ridgefield P&Z Approves Short-Term Rental Rules, Rejects Main Street Sign Proposal
Ridgefield P&Z approved short-term rental rules, advanced stormwater plans and continued zoning reviews.
RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved new short-term rental regulations June 23, setting limits for rentals that operate under zoning permits and special permits.
The commission voted to allow up to six lodging stays per year under a zoning permit and up to 26 stays per year under a special permit. Commissioners also agreed to define short-term rentals as having a maximum of eight bedrooms, with larger lodging uses treated differently under zoning rules.
Commission members said the rules are intended to allow short-term rentals while regulating turnover and neighborhood impacts. Chair Robert Hendrick said the regulation also distinguishes short-term rentals from bed-and-breakfasts, which require an owner to be on-site or nearby.
See Also: Ridgefield Voters Approve Danbury Road Sidewalk Easements, Hear Pickleball Project Update
The commission also rejected, by a 3-4 vote, a proposed illuminated sign for The Mariner Tavern at 451 Main St. Commissioners raised concerns that the sign was inconsistent with other signage in the plaza and not in harmony with the town’s village district standards. The application will return for further discussion.
In another unanimous vote, commissioners issued a positive referral for a proposed rain garden near the skate park at 66 Prospect St., also known as 90 East Ridge Road. Town officials said the project is intended to address stormwater runoff and impervious surface coverage.
The commission continued a public hearing on proposed changes to Ridgefield’s excavation, filling and grading regulations. Members discussed additional draft language related to lot size, slope and soil movement, but kept the hearing open pending further revisions.
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Commissioners also unanimously initiated a new regulation amendment related to notice requirements for abutters and scheduled a special meeting for June 30 to discuss Branchville planning issues and state housing legislation.
The commission received and scheduled a July 14 public hearing on a proposed sustainability standards amendment. The proposal would add sustainability-related definitions, standards and checklist items to Ridgefield’s zoning regulations.
The meeting adjourned at 9:38 p.m.
