The Stanford Town Board voted unanimously Thursday, Aug. 14, to adopt a new law regulating short-term rental accommodations, acting ahead of a September state deadline that would otherwise limit the town’s ability to set its own rules.
The measure — introduced in March, revised after public input in June, and reintroduced in July — amends Chapter 164 of the town code to permit short-term rentals as either a principal or accessory use in all zoning districts, subject to a detailed permitting system and strict safety, occupancy, and operational standards.
“This is the law where towns have to either establish their own laws by September or do whatever the county and state end up mandating,” Town Supervisor Wendy Burton said. “We believe in home rule and would like to have our own regulations, so we will be passing this law.”
No residents spoke during the public hearing before the 4-0 vote. Councilman Nathan LaVertue was absent.
Key Provisions
Under the new law, short-term rentals — defined as the rental of an entire dwelling unit or portion thereof for fewer than 31 consecutive days — will be capped at 55 permits townwide. Preference will be given to operators already registered with Dutchess County before the law takes effect, who will have 90 days to apply under the new rules.
Permits, issued for two years and non-transferable, require inspections by the building department, proof of insurance, compliance with Department of Health septic capacity limits, and adherence to a maximum occupancy of two people per bedroom. Parking, safety equipment, and noise restrictions are also mandated, and violations can result in suspension or revocation.
Accessory dwelling units, basements, and attics — unless deemed habitable space — cannot be used for short-term rentals. The law also requires the permit number to be included in all listings, prohibits on-site advertising, and bans fireworks, pyrotechnics, and the discharge of firearms on rental properties.
Other Board Business
The board approved spending $24,034.38 on three permanent shade structures for the town’s recreation center, replacing mature trees removed from the waterfront. Recreation Commission chair Lauren Osterman reported that the town’s summer camp “was a great success” and said plans are underway for Community Day, which will include a town-wide scavenger hunt.
The newly formed Water Quality Committee announced it is partnering with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Dutchess County on a $75,000, three-year grant proposal to the Hudson River Estuary Program. The project would launch a comprehensive groundwater testing initiative, develop a state-approved quality assurance plan, and expand public education on water protection. More than 40 residents have already volunteered to have their wells tested.
The Conservation Advisory Commission reported that public comment has closed on the town’s Natural Resource Inventory, which will be presented for adoption. It also received more than 60 survey responses on the Buttercup Sanctuary, with many citing birding and dog walking as primary uses. The commission will meet with the Audubon Society to discuss habitat maintenance.
Board member Eric Haims said that the town’s Planning Board is unusually busy and will meet Aug. 27 — a month it typically recesses — to handle multiple public hearings.
The board appointed Doreen Brown to the Zoning Commission, filling its final vacancy.