Lake County board to form ad hoc committee to draft short-term rental rules

Mireya Turner, Lake County's community development director, told the Board of Supervisors that the county's zoning code currently allows bed-and-breakfast uses but does not provide a category for whole-house short-term rentals, creating uncertainty for property owners and inconsistent guidance across county counters. Turner recommended the board establish an ad hoc committee to develop regulations that reflect local needs.

Turner summarized staff research of roughly 11 other jurisdictions and said common regulatory elements include whether STRs are allowed in all residential districts or restricted to principal residences, permit lengths ranging from one to seven years, minimal signage, occupancy or parking limits and public outreach to set local thresholds. "I would recommend that the board establish an ad hoc committee," Turner said, proposing membership including a tourism improvement district representative, a local chamber of commerce representative, fire chiefs, a housing specialist, a business association member, a short-term rental owner and a member of the public. She said the ad hoc should be based in Community Development to avoid Brown Act complexities.

Supervisors voiced mixed timing priorities but general support for the committee. "I'm fine with waiting till summer when you have some more availability," said Supervisor Pisco, while another supervisor urged the committee include a housing specialist to assess whether STR conversions could reduce long-term rental supply. Several board members emphasized the need for consistent county guidance: "We did ask for this because we have compliance issues," one supervisor said, noting different information is provided at different county counters.

Board counsel asked the board to confirm the ad hoc membership outlined in the staff memo. Turner agreed to add an HOA representative at the board's request and to coordinate housing-stock data gathering with local stakeholders. The board directed staff to establish the ad hoc committee and return recommendations as staff capacity permits; no final ordinance or vote was taken.

Next steps: staff will form the ad hoc committee with the makeup the board approved, coordinate with the county tax collector on transient occupancy tax issues, gather updated housing data, and bring draft language and recommended permit structure back to the board for consideration.