For rent sign. (File Photo)
A revised ordinance aimed at regulating home-sharing rentals such as the popular ‘Airbnb’ service was introduced Tuesday night by Toms River officials.
The ordinance, which requires a second reading and public hearing before adoption, would ban all rentals less than 30 days in length in all areas of the township except the barrier island. On the island, such rentals would only be allowed between April 15 and Sept. 15.
The ordinance is in response to complaints from residents that homes in numerous neighborhoods – particularly North Dover and Silverton – were being used as Airbnb rentals with frequent turnover. Assistant Township Attorney Anthony Merlino said the law is meant to “balance the interests” of mainland and island residents. The latest proposal comes after a previous effort to regulate such rentals failed to gain the council’s support, since its intention – to limit rentals to a minimum of six days – drew opposition from island homeowners.
Complaints about Airbnb rentals go back more than a year in Toms River, when a group of residents complained a house was being used as, essentially, a boarding house with loud tenants who would wander around the neighborhood.
The newest proposal also prohibits homeowners from renting specific amenities, such as pools, to tenants.
The public hearing on the ordinance will be held at the council’s March 14 meeting, which will take place at 6 p.m. at the township municipal complex.
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