After two years of public discussion, West Chester Borough Council passed an ordinance to regulate short-term rentals. Short-term rental use would be limited to the TC-Town Center District, or mostly within the downtown business district. The total number of rentals is limited to 20, borough-wide. When the 20 units are established, prospective renters will need to sign up for a waiting list. For each bedroom rented, one off-street parking space will need to be available either on the property, adjacent to the property, or in a public garage or lot. Renters will need to obtain an annual borough permit that is transferable to a future property owner. Borough solicitor Kristin Camp said the annual permitting process would be similar to the long-term rental system and only actual costs would be charged. No student home may be used as a short-term rental. Short-term rental owners shall obtain and maintain at least a $1 million general liability insurance policy. Special events, such as wedding receptions, will not be allowed in short-term rental units. Fire safety plans informing guests of escape routes are also required for each unit.
Source: Daily Local; 11/25/2024