Airbnbs have grown in popularity over the years.
In Millcreek Township, they are only allowed in certain areas near Almost Isle, but residents of that area want to make sure owners are held accountable. Millcreek supervisors passed an ordinance on Tuesday to regulate Airbnbs and other limited housing allowed in the township.
Limited lodging is only permitted in the Millcreek Township Overlay District near Almost Isle, but previously Airbnb owners in these locations had little or no regulation.
With this in mind, community members have brought their concerns to the Township, and Council is responding to them.
“Many of our residents have been concerned about what this might mean for their neighborhood, so we really felt we needed to put policies and guidelines in place for anyone looking to set up an Airbnb or Vrbo in Millcreek Township,” said said Kim. Clear, Millcreek Township Supervisor.
Some of the ways they regulate these limited accommodation locations are through mandating vetting, annual inspections, permits, and certifications. Failure to follow the application process will result in penalties for the owner and up to $1,000 in fines.
A common understanding when it comes to Airbnbs is their use as a place where people can move in and party, which supervisors hope to help crack down.
Now, neighbors have raised concerns about these Airbnbs, and supervisors hope to address those concerns.
“We obviously heard the concerns expressed by people: ‘Well, what if this person has a big party or they have all these cars and take up all the space on the street.’ These things really upset a neighborhood, so the bylaws that are being passed today are doing things to address those concerns,” said Millcreek Township Solicitor Mark Shaw.
These new changes and requirements will come into effect from October 5th, so if you are an affected owner, be sure to register properly with the township or face penalties.
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