What rules should apply to homeowners who rent out houses, rooms or apartments to vacationers?

Langley’s Planning Advisory Board wants to hear from residents on Tuesday, July 16, about their opinions on draft code amendments for short-term rentals. The public hearing begins at 5:30 p.m.

Communities across the country, including Coupeville, are trying to figure out how to respond to the rise of Airbnb and other services that help people rent out homes to visitors. Some argue that Airbnb has an unfair advantage over traditional lodging businesses and can create nuisances in neighborhoods; others see it as a positive trend that helps the economy and allows homeowners to make some money.

The draft includes amendments to definitions, allowed land uses, parking requirements, water rates, sewer rates, occupancy tax and other parts of the short-term rental code.

People can provide verbal and written testimony at the hearing or submit written comments to City Hall prior to 3 p.m. on July 15.

At the end of the public hearing, the advisory board may issue a recommendation to the City Council for approval, approval with conditions or denial of the draft ordinance. It is available at City Hall or online on the city’s website.

City staff recommends that the City Council conduct the first reading of the ordinance at a special meeting on July 29 and possibly adopt it at the Aug. 5 meeting.