BAPC mulls what to do about vacation rental homes

WORLAND — The Worland Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission began discussions about whether Airbnb and other host short-term rentals should be regulated or licensed within the city limits.

Building Official Randy Adams told the board at the regular meeting Monday that he was approached by a homeowner who was interested in purchasing a home to turn it into an Airbnb rental. Adams began some research and there is nothing current in city code addressing Airbnb or other home-sharing/short-term lodging services.

He said he found two current homes on the Airbnb site within the city limits, one is full home and one is a basement.

“I think it is something the board needs to look at,” Adams said.

A quick search on the Airbnb website shows five sites in and around Worland, with additional sites in Ten Sleep.

Adams said he contacted two communities to see if they have any regulations – Cheyenne and Laramie. Cheyenne does not do anything with an average of 50 homes rented out every year during Frontier Days. He said Laramie has one Airbnb home and they “let it slide. They haven’t decided how to address it.”

Adams added, “My feeling is that [Airbnbs] could go into commercial or general business zone.”

Dan Frederick asked why they had to be allowed in a particular zone.

Adams then asked, “Do we just allow it.”

James Donahue said he and his family have stayed at Airbnb or VRBO homes and they can rate “guests” if guests misbehave.

There was discussion on whether the Airbnbs would need to obtain a permit or a special exemption so the city could ensure that all state statutes are being followed including assessing lodging and sales tax.

According to an official with the Wyoming Department of Revenue if a host uses a site like Airbnb or VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner) the site collects the taxes for the state. Both companies have licenses in Wyoming.

If someone operates independently then they must collect the taxes themselves.

Having a permit or special exemption would allow the city to know where the Airbnb or other host homes are located if there are any traffic, parking or noise issues associated with them.

It was noted that exemptions are required for other home-based businesses.

The board directed Adams to let the city council know their concerns and to provide direction, if any to the BAPC on how to address short-term lodging within city limits.