Norwood trustees agree to revisit short-term rental rules, including 90-day limit and owner-occupancy

The board discussed whether Norwood should relax its 2022 short-term rental (STR) ordinance, which currently limits rentals to 90 days per year and includes owner-occupancy requirements.

Chair said the town’s housing situation and prolonged construction suggest it may be appropriate to give property owners more latitude, for example by removing the 90-day cap or the requirement that the owner live on-site. Trustees raised concerns about protecting neighborhood character and ensuring STRs do not displace long-term worker housing; members suggested aligning town rules with county regulations and requested staff research. Trustees agreed to place the topic on a future agenda (or hold a workshop) and to circulate county rules and potential options in advance so the public can participate.

No regulatory changes were adopted at the meeting; the discussion resulted in direction to staff to prepare materials for the next meeting.