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If you've been searching for the perfect White Mountains group getaway, this Bartlett chalet might be the one that ends the search.

Here is the VRBO listing 

I had a chance to walk through this property recently, and I can tell you firsthand — it delivers. Four bedrooms, a loft, two king suites, a hot tub, and 4,700 square feet of modern luxury, all sitting about three minutes from Attitash Mountain Resort. Whether you're planning a ski trip, a fall foliage weekend, or a summer escape, this rental checks boxes most properties in the valley can't.

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What Makes This Property Stand Out

The layout is what gets me. A lot of group rentals in this area feel like they were cobbled together — bedrooms too small, bathrooms stretched thin, common areas that can't comfortably hold everyone at once. This one was clearly designed with groups in mind. Two king suites mean the "who gets the good room" argument is settled before it starts, and with capacity for 12 and over four and a half thousand square feet to spread out in, it never feels crowded.

The hot tub is the obvious crowd-pleaser, but the interior finishes are what elevate it to luxury territory. Modern design, a full private kitchen, in-unit washer and dryer, free WiFi, and air conditioning — the kind of amenities that make a long weekend feel effortless rather than logistical.

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Location Is Everything Here

Attitash Mountain Resort is three minutes away. The Saco River is three minutes in the other direction. Story Land — if you're bringing kids — is a twelve-minute drive. You're also well-positioned for everything North Conway has to offer: the outlets, the dining scene, the hiking, the Conway Scenic Railroad.

This is the kind of location where you don't feel like you have to choose between adventure and relaxation. You can ski all day and be soaking in a hot tub under the stars by 6 PM.

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Who This Rental Is Built For

This property makes the most sense for:

• Ski groups looking for a true basecamp within minutes of Attitash
• Multi-family trips where two separate king suites matter
• Corporate or celebratory retreats that need space, comfort, and a wow factor
• Summer and fall travelers who want a luxury anchor while exploring the valley

Madison Short-Term Rentals: What the Recent Court Ruling Really Means

There’s been a lot of chatter lately about short-term rentals in Madison, and for good reason. A recent Land Court decision has clarified (and complicated) how the town can regulate STRs going forward. If you own a short-term rental in Madison—or are thinking about buying one—here’s a plain-English breakdown of what actually changed.

A split decision, by design
In short, both the town and short-term rental owners walked away with a win—and a loss.

The court ruled that owners who were already operating short-term rentals before March 2022 can continue renting without the town limiting the number of days per year they operate. That’s a meaningful win for grandfathered STR owners who were previously capped based on historical use plus a small percentage.

On the flip side, the court upheld Madison’s authority to prohibit new short-term rentals that started after March 2022. From a zoning standpoint, the town’s ordinance still stands.

Town officials summarized it succinctly: Madison’s zoning regulations remain strong, but the town cannot impose day-count limits on owners who were renting prior to the 2022 change.

What happened to the specific cases?
Several individual STR owners challenged the town’s decision to cap their annual rental days. Those caps—some as low as a couple of months per year—were struck down by the court for pre-2022 rentals. In contrast, one case involving a property that began operating after the 2022 regulation went into effect was not successful, reinforcing the town’s ability to bar new STRs under the current ordinance.

There is still some legal motion ahead. A vacation rental advocacy group has indicated it plans to appeal the ruling related to that newer STR case to the state Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the town is not appealing the portion of the ruling it lost.

What this means for owners and buyers
If you were renting your Madison property short-term prior to March 2022, this decision is significant. You’re no longer subject to town-imposed limits on how many days per year you can rent.

If you started renting after that date—or are considering buying a property with the intention of creating a new short-term rental—the landscape hasn’t changed much. The town’s ban on new STRs is still intact, at least for now.

Why this matters beyond Madison
This case is another example of how New Hampshire towns are trying to balance housing concerns, neighborhood character, and property rights. Madison isn’t alone, and this ruling will likely be referenced as other communities revisit or defend their own short-term rental rules.

As always, if you own an STR or are evaluating one as an investment, local timing, historical use, and zoning details matter—a lot. These aren’t “one-size-fits-all” rules, and this case is a good reminder of that.

If you want to talk through how this might affect a specific property in Madison or the surrounding towns, I’m always happy to help.

If you own or manage a short-term rental (STR) in Conway, NH, there's an important update you’ll want to be aware of. The town just released a new draft checklist outlining the minimum safety and housing standards required for licensing STR properties.  Here is a link to the town website (scroll down to Rental Certificate Program)

This checklist, dated May 12, 2025, is part of Conway’s ongoing effort to ensure STRs are safe for guests and compliant with local and state regulations. Whether you're actively renting or planning to, here’s a quick breakdown of what’s required:

🔑 Key Highlights from the Checklist:

1. Visible Street Address
   Your property must have address numbers clearly visible from the road—minimum 4" tall with good contrast.

2. Smoke & CO Detectors
   Interconnected smoke alarms with battery backup must be in every sleeping area and level. Carbon monoxide detectors are also required on each level.

3. Safe Egress
   Every bedroom needs two ways out—usually a door and a window (no more than 20 feet above ground).

4. Heating & Appliances
   Gas heating systems must be serviced within the past 12 months. Wood stoves and chimneys must meet NFPA 211 standards.

5. Electrical & Fire Safety
   The electrical system must comply with national fire codes (NFPA 70), and a properly maintained fire extinguisher must be on-site.

6. Outdoor Fire & Cooking Equipment
   Fire pits must follow RSA 227-L and require a burn permit. Grills and smokers must be on the ground only—no decks or porches.

7. Meals & Rentals License
   If required, your Meals and Rentals license must be valid and displayed at the property.

8. Older Septic Systems
   If your septic system is more than 10 years old, it must be inspected and shown to meet state standards.

9. General Housing Condition
   Properties must meet minimum housing maintenance standards (RSA 48-A) and cannot be a nuisance to neighbors.

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Why It Matters

This checklist isn’t just about compliance—it’s about guest safety and community trust. Meeting these standards helps avoid fines, delays in licensing, and potential liability if something goes wrong.  There is a timeline for this program on the town website as well.

Need help making sure your STR checks all the boxes? I offer free safety inspections for local short-term rentals—just reach out and I’ll walk you through it.

 

 

 

 

 

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From a story in today's Conway Daily Sun: Click here for the full story

Madison Zoning Board Sets New Limits on Short-Term Rentals Despite Court Ruling

The Madison Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) has imposed new restrictions on short-term rental (STR) owners, despite a recent court ruling in their favor. The case involves two couples, the Ardizzonis and the Clymers, who own a property at 13 Lucerne Drive in Madison’s Eidelweiss community. The New Hampshire Land Use Court ruled in December that the owners could continue short-term renting under a "nonconforming pre-existing use" provision, as the property was used as an STR since 2017, before Madison’s 2022 ban on new STRs.

In response, the ZBA voted 5-0 to limit rentals to the highest number of days rented in a single year plus 15%. For the Ardizzoni/Clymer property, this translates to a 61-day rental limit. A similar case resulted in a 69-day cap. ZBA members believe the formula ensures fairness and consistency.

However, STR owners' attorney Matt Johnson warned that limiting rental days could face further legal challenges, arguing the ZBA lacks authority to impose such restrictions. David Cavanaugh of the MWV Responsible Renters Association criticized the decision, noting the court already deemed STRs as residential use, protected under grandfathering rights, and raising concerns about unequal treatment and enforcement issues.

With a 30-day appeal window open, further legal action may follow. The debate highlights the ongoing tension between property rights and local zoning regulations in Madison.

Regulating the number of days a property is rented is one of the hardest things to do. Out-of-state plates in the driveway? That could be the owner, a friend, family—or frankly, none of your business. Even if a town wanted to enforce it, how could they realistically track the number of rental days?

On the other hand, limiting occupancy is much easier. Airbnb or VRBO listings are public and can be regularly checked. Plus, in my opinion, occupancy limits tend to address the real issues. What’s better: 15 people in a three-bedroom house for 50 nights a year, or the proper number of guests with no strict rental timeline? Other towns have tried to regulate the number of rental nights, and it just doesn’t work.

 

 

 

 

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Big changes could be coming to Conway’s rental inspection program, but are they actually improving safety—or just making it easier for rentals to slip through the cracks? Town Planner Ryan O’Connor recently announced that self-affidavits would be reintroduced, reducing the number of physical inspections required for rental properties. The proposed changes will be discussed at a public hearing on January 28 at 4 p.m. at Town Hall.

Background: Why the Program Was Paused

Last April, Conway voters approved a warrant article allowing the town to inspect and regulate both short- and long-term rental properties. The goal was clear—ensure that rental homes met life-safety standards before issuing a certificate of rental compliance. However, the program faced legal challenges from the Mount Washington Valley Association for Responsible Vacation Rentals, which sued the town in July, calling the inspections “illegal.”

Rather than fight the lawsuit outright, the Selectmen paused the program in October to make revisions, which have now been unveiled.

Key Changes: A Shift to Self-Affidavits

The biggest change? Rental owners will now be able to self-certify that their property meets building codes, reducing the need for in-person inspections. Here’s what’s being proposed:

• Self-Affidavits Instead of Inspections – Existing rental property owners can sign off on their own compliance without an in-person check.
• Fewer Physical Inspections – Inspections will only be required for new rental properties or when ownership changes.
• Annual Self-Affidavit Requirement – Rental owners must submit a self-affidavit each year.
• Optional Inspections – Owners can request an inspection from the town, valid for three years.
• $1,000 Daily Fines – Non-compliance could cost up to $1,000 per day, though the Selectmen can adjust this.
• New Appeals Process – Appeals will now go to the Zoning Board of Adjustment instead of a board of industry professionals.

The Problem with Self-Inspections

Self-inspections sound great—until you see what actually happens. This is like letting kids grade their own homework. Some will give themselves an A+ because they didn’t do the work but still want to pass, while others will give themselves a passing grade because they don’t know what’s wrong in the first place.

I’ve personally seen plenty of homes proudly displaying their self-affidavit rental licenses, yet when you walk inside, they have obvious safety violations. Whether it’s missing smoke detectors or lack of proper egress, these are real hazards that don’t just go away because a form says everything is fine.

Rental Owners: Think Before You Sign

If you own a rental property, ask yourself: Are you really comfortable signing a document saying your home meets safety codes if it doesn’t?

This isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s a legal liability. If something goes wrong—a fire, an injury, or worse—you could be held personally responsible for falsely attesting that your property was up to code. An official inspection provides a layer of protection, ensuring you’re in compliance before anything happens.

A $175 Fee for… What Exactly?

Then there’s the $175 self-affidavit fee. Let’s be honest—this looks less like a safety measure and more like a money grab. What exactly is that fee covering? It’s not an inspection, it’s not enforcement, and it’s not improving rental conditions. If anything, it makes it easier for unsafe rentals to keep operating, while still bringing in revenue for the town.

Concerns from the Responsible Renters Association

Even though the Rental Association supports the return of self-affidavits, they still have major concerns, including:

1. Could These Rules Eventually Apply to All Homes? Some worry that Chapter 72 could expand beyond rentals, applying safety standards to all homes in Conway.
2. Are Rentals Being Treated as Commercial Businesses? The town is using NH RSA 41:11-c, a law meant for business permitting, even though courts have ruled rentals aren’t commercial enterprises.
3. Are the Fees Justified? New Hampshire law requires that permit fees only cover administrative costs. The $175 self-affidavit fee seems far beyond what it actually costs to file paperwork.

Final Thoughts: A Step in the Right Direction or a Missed Opportunity?

While this revised program may seem like an improvement over the paused version, self-certification does not replace real inspections. Safety shouldn’t be a “trust system.” If rental properties are meant to meet safety standards, then someone who actually knows what they’re looking for should be checking—not just the owner filling out a form.

An article in the Conway Daily Sun (click here for full article) discusses the latest in a court case that started in 2018 over short term rentals in that precinct.

Here is a summary of the article:

• Court Ruling:

  • Carroll County Superior Court ruled in favor of the Kearsarge Lighting Precinct (KLP) in a case against a Massachusetts couple, Christopher and Kelly Andrews.
  • The ruling mandates short-term rentals (STRs) within the KLP must be owner-occupied unless overturned by the New Hampshire Supreme Court.

• Case Background:

  • The Andrewses, who own two properties in the KLP, filed the lawsuit in 2018 after being restricted from running non-owner-occupied STRs.
  • The case was previously reviewed by the New Hampshire Supreme Court, which sent it back to the Superior Court.

• Ordinance at Issue:

  • The KLP zoning ordinance requires all residential properties offering sleeping accommodations to transient or permanent guests to be owner-occupied.
  • Judge Mark Attorri ruled the ordinance valid, stating it promotes the general welfare by preserving a quiet and peaceful neighborhood.

• Arguments and Counterarguments:

  • The Andrewses argued the ordinance was beyond the precinct’s authority (“ultra vires”) and unclear.
  • The court disagreed, affirming the ordinance does not discriminate against tenants and may promote affordable housing by increasing residential stock.

• KLP Enforcement History:

  • Complaints about guest behavior prompted public hearings in 2017, followed by violation letters to the Andrewses.
  • Appeals by the Andrewses were denied by the KLP Zoning Board in 2018, leading to the lawsuit.

• Broader Implications:

  • The ruling marks a rare victory for a municipality in cases involving STR owners, with similar cases often favoring the property owners.
  • Debate continues over the KLP’s authority and future, with a petition circulating to dissolve the precinct.

• Next Steps:

  • The Andrewses are undecided about appealing to the New Hampshire Supreme Court.
  • The KLP commissioners may lift their pause on ordinance enforcement even if an appeal is filed.

• Statements from Stakeholders:

  • KLP officials expressed satisfaction with the ruling.
  • The Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Rentals criticized the decision, arguing the KLP was not intended to regulate property rentals.

Conway Daily Sun (click here for full article)

A recent legal decision has brought clarity to the ongoing discussion around short-term rentals (STRs) in Madison, New Hampshire. Two couples who own a property in the Eidelweiss Residential District successfully challenged a zoning violation, allowing them to continue offering their home as a short-term rental.

The case, Chad and Brittney Ardizzoni and Aaron and Tiffany Clymer v. the Town of Madison and the Town of Madison Zoning Board of Adjustment, was heard by Judge Michael Klass of New Hampshire’s Land Use Review Docket. The ruling, issued on December 18, reverses the town’s enforcement of zoning ordinances against the owners' use of their property for short-term rentals.

The Background

The Ardizzonis and Clymers purchased their property at 13 Lucerne Drive in June 2022, continuing a short-term rental operation established by the previous owners in 2017. Madison prohibits new short-term rentals in the town, based on zoning changes enacted in March 2022. In the Eidelweiss Residential District, where the property is located, commercial activity—including STRs—is not allowed under zoning rules dating back to the 1990s.

In August 2023, Madison’s code enforcement officer issued a notice of violation to the property owners, asserting that their use of the home as an STR was not permitted. The owners appealed this decision to the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA), which upheld the violation in March 2023. The ZBA interpreted the town’s zoning ordinances to classify short-term rentals as a form of commercial use, which is prohibited in the district.

The Court’s Decision

The property owners brought their case to the state Land Use Review Docket, asking the court to reverse the ZBA’s decision. Judge Klass ruled in favor of the owners, finding that the Madison zoning ordinance in effect in 2015 did not prohibit short-term rentals as a residential use.

Judge Klass noted that Madison’s zoning ordinance is “permissive,” meaning it only allows land uses explicitly listed. In his decision, he focused on how the property is used by occupants—whether for eating, sleeping, or other ordinary residential activities. Klass cited a prior New Hampshire Supreme Court ruling, Conway v. Kudrick, which similarly held that short-term rentals can qualify as residential use.

The court determined that because the property was rented short-term under the terms of the 2015 ordinance, it was eligible for “grandfathered” status, allowing the continued operation of short-term rentals on the property.

What Happens Next?

The Town of Madison has 10 days from the date of the ruling to file a motion for reconsideration. If no such motion is filed, the town has 30 days from the date of the ruling to appeal to the New Hampshire Supreme Court.

The court’s decision only applies to the specific case of the Ardizzoni and Clymer property. Other properties in Madison and the Eidelweiss District may still be subject to the town’s 2022 zoning rules, which restrict new short-term rental operations.

Community Implications

This decision highlights the evolving landscape of short-term rental regulations in New Hampshire. Towns like Madison are working to balance the interests of property owners, year-round residents, and visitors. The outcome of this case may have implications for other communities grappling with similar issues.

As the legal process continues, it remains to be seen whether the town will pursue further action or adjust its approach to short-term rental enforcement in the future. For now, the court’s decision offers clarity on the status of short-term rentals under the 2015 zoning ordinance in Madison.

I’m pleased to announce that I’m offering free Short-Term Rental (STR) safety inspections for homeowners in our community. This is a project I’ve been considering for quite some time, and a recent tragedy in Wakefield, NH—where four people died to due lack of working carbon monoxide detectors—prompted me to move forward with a sense of urgency. My mission is to help ensure that short-term rentals are as safe as possible for every guest.  This is also a good idea if you let friends and family use your vacation home.  For now, I will complete one inspection per week.

The inspection itself will take about 30–60 minutes. During that time, I’ll focus on the following areas:

• Fire safety – Verifying that smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and other protective measures are in place and functioning correctly.
• Egress – Confirming that there are clear, accessible exits in case of an emergency.
• Carbon monoxide safety – Ensuring that CO detectors are installed and working properly to protect everyone in the home.
• General safety hazards – Identifying potential risks that may not be obvious at first glance.

Once the inspection is complete, I will share my observations only with you. I will not report them to any third party or online platform. However, I may use select photos or videos from the inspection for educational purposes—while always protecting your home’s identity.

If you would like to schedule a free STR safety inspection, please reach out. Together, we can help create a safer environment for your guests and our community as a whole. Let’s make sure your rental is ready to welcome everyone with peace of mind.

I will complete at least one inspection per week.  Click here to fill out a quick Google Form to be added to the wait list.

 

If you own a short-term rental in Fryeburg, it’s time to take action! As of January 1, 2025, Fryeburg’s new short-term rental ordinance will officially go into effect. This means all short-term rental properties—those rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days per year—must be registered with the town before December 31, 2024. Properties rented fewer than 14 days annually are exempt, but everyone else needs to register to avoid fines.

What You Need to Know About the Ordinance

The ordinance, passed at the June town meeting, requires property owners to obtain a registration number and certificate through Fryeburg’s code enforcement officer. The goal? To ensure rentals meet safety standards and don’t disrupt the community.

Here are the basics:

• Application Fee: $150 (non-refundable).
• Registration Period: Valid for one year.
• Deadline: December 31, 2024.
• Application Available: Fryeburg Town Office or online on the town's website.

What Happens If You Don’t Register?

Failure to comply can be costly. Operating or advertising without a valid registration could result in fines. For the first offense, you’ll face a daily fine equal to the annual registration fee. For repeat offenses, the fine triples per day.

What’s Required for Registration?

The application involves providing details such as:

• Property type (single-family, duplex, etc.).
• Rental availability dates.
• Advertising methods.
• Occupancy limits.
• Parking details and a site plan.
• A septic system design (if applicable).

You’ll also complete a self-inspection checklist, including:

• Posting a copy of the permit inside the rental.
• Ensuring safety equipment like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are in place.
• Maintaining proper trash disposal and parking access.

Where to Start

Download the application here or pick one up at the Fryeburg Town Office. Questions? Contact Fryeburg’s Zoning Officer, Caleb Bowles, who’s ready to help streamline the process.

Don’t wait! Protect your rental income and comply with Fryeburg’s new rules. Register your short-term rental today.

http://fryeburgmaine.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif4446/f/uploads/short-term_rental_applicationfinal_7-24-24.pdf

A recent article in the Conway Daily Sun discussed the Conway Board of Selectmen's decision to temporarily pause their rental inspection program following ongoing legal disputes. The town had been inspecting rental properties for life safety compliance based on a program approved by voters in April, but the Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Vacation Rentals filed a lawsuit against the town, claiming the inspections were unconstitutional, citing concerns over warrantless searches and overreach of authority.

In response, the selectmen voted to halt inspections and any issuance of Certificates of Compliance until a vote scheduled for April 2025. Property owners who had already paid for inspections will receive a credit for future inspections, and any additional costs will not be charged. The town's legal team and the association reached an agreement to pause the lawsuit while revisions to the town ordinance and inspection program are considered.

The association’s president, David Cavanaugh, argued that the ordinance was flawed and illegal, emphasizing that their lawsuit aimed to protect property rights rather than oppose safety regulations. He suggested the town consider voluntary safety inspections or educational programs instead of mandatory compliance. The association has also requested the town refund fees for inspections deemed unnecessary or based on the flawed program. The article concludes with the association's commitment to monitor the situation and potentially withdraw or reinitiate legal action as needed.

Link to the full story below:

https://www.conwaydailysun.com/news/local/town-pauses-rental-inspections-owners-suspend-lawsuit/article_dddfe48a-80c5-11ef-af56-63f4c92d1f02.html

Here is a summary of an article that was published in the Conway Daily Sun recently.  You can read the full article here

The recently adopted rental inspection ordinance in Conway has hit a legal snag that prevents its enforcement until an amendment can be made at the next town meeting. This comes as the town faces a lawsuit from the Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Vacation Rentals.

Background and Current Situation: At the Sept. 3 Selectmen’s meeting, Deputy Town Manager Paul DegliAngeli announced that the town would not take action against landlords out of compliance with the new rental inspection plan until the ordinance is updated and the lawsuit is resolved. The main issue lies in the ordinance’s wording, which does not correctly cite the relevant state laws.

The ordinance, which was approved by voters, needs to be amended to include references to specific state statutes, such as RSA Chapter 31, which pertains to the town’s ability to enact bylaws. The current version lacks this necessary verbiage, which has led to confusion and legal challenges. DegliAngeli stated that while the ordinance is not believed to be illegal, the town wants to clarify its language before moving forward.

Legal Actions and Reactions: This revelation surprised David Cavanaugh, president of the rental association, who noted that the town's intention to pause enforcement for ordinance adjustments was unexpected. The association, alongside White Mountain Properties, LLC, filed a lawsuit in August arguing that the rental inspection program was implemented without proper legal authority from the state. They are also challenging the town on the grounds of warrantless inspections and seeking to prevent the enforcement of the program.

Next Steps: To address the issue, the town plans to draft a letter explaining the situation to rental property owners. This letter will be presented at the next Selectmen’s meeting on October 1. Meanwhile, the town has received a two-week extension to respond to the lawsuit, with their new deadline being September 30. The first court hearing is scheduled for October 15 in Belknap Superior Court.

Looking Forward: The town aims to amend the rental ordinance at the 2025 town meeting to include the correct citations and set a fine schedule. Until then, enforcement of the rental inspection program remains on hold. This situation underscores the importance of precise legal language in local ordinances and the potential complexities that can arise when implementing new regulations.

For landlords and renters in Conway, this means a continued period of uncertainty. Stay tuned for updates as the town works to resolve these legal challenges and clarify the future of the rental inspection program.

A recent article in the Conway Daily Sun explains how the town of Conway’s rental inspection and certification program, designed to ensure the safety and compliance of both short- and long-term rental properties, is currently under legal scrutiny. A lawsuit filed by the Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Vacation Rentals, along with White Mountain Properties LLC, has brought the program’s legality into question, effectively halting its progress. The town was on the brink of finalizing the program by holding public hearings regarding the fine schedule for violations, which could be as steep as $1,000 per occurrence. However, these hearings have been postponed due to the ongoing litigation, with a court date scheduled for September.

Despite the legal challenges, the need for accountability among rental property owners cannot be overstated. As a real estate professional, I recently showed a three-story, three-bedroom home that shockingly lacked any smoke alarms—a basic safety requirement. This highlights a critical issue: regardless of the outcome of this legal dispute, rental property owners must take their responsibility seriously. It’s not just about adhering to local regulations; it’s about safeguarding the lives of those who stay in these properties.

The town’s inspection program, supported by over 1,000 Conway citizens, was designed to enforce life safety inspections for all rental properties, ensuring they meet basic safety standards before being granted a Certificate of Rental Compliance. While the program’s enforcement is currently in limbo due to the lawsuit, the need for some accountability is clear. Property owners should not only focus on protecting their privacy rights but also on ensuring the safety and well-being of their guests.

This legal battle could take years to resolve, but in the meantime, the responsibility falls on property owners to maintain high standards of safety. Whether or not the town’s program is ultimately upheld, the importance of protecting guests in rental properties should remain a top priority for all owners. The ongoing litigation serves as a reminder that while legalities are being debated, the safety of people staying in these properties should never be compromised.

Read the full story here - 

As October approaches, Conway's rental licensing program gears up to issue its first violation notices to property owners not in compliance. This follows the passing of Article 24 on April 9, allowing the town to inspect and regulate long- and short-term rentals. Deputy Town Manager Paul DegliAngeli and Zoning Enforcement Officer Nicholas DeVito outlined the program's progress and next steps in a recent interview with the Sun.

Key Elements of the Rental Licensing Program

• Life Safety Inspections: The program mandates that rental properties undergo life safety inspections conducted by DeVito and fire officials. This step is crucial to ensure properties meet basic safety standards, such as having functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. DeVito highlighted the surprising number of properties lacking these essential safety features.

• Registration and Compliance: Landlords must file registration paperwork to be considered compliant. To date, 560 rental applications have been submitted, including those granted and pending. Property owners had the option to submit self-affidavits until January 26.

• Enforcement Timeline: The enforcement process is set to intensify with public hearings on the fine schedule expected in August. Following these hearings, violation letters may be sent out in October, with subsequent fines issued approximately two weeks later.

Addressing Violations

DeVito outlined a structured approach to handling violations. Initially, a notice of violation will be issued to non-compliant property owners, followed by fines if there is no response within a specified period. The selectmen will determine the exact fines and response times, but the process aims to be fair, providing ample time for owners to address issues.

Challenges and Legal Considerations

Despite its life safety benefits, the program has faced resistance, with groups like the Mt. Washington Valley Association for Responsible Rentals questioning its legality. DeVito remains confident in the program's due diligence and its alignment with legal standards, although he acknowledges ongoing legal scrutiny.

Looking Ahead

As the program evolves, DeVito expects an increase in inspections, particularly as one-year self-affidavits begin to expire. The town's commitment to ensuring rental properties meet safety standards remains steadfast, even as they navigate challenges and potential pushback.

Stay informed about the latest developments in Conway's rental licensing program as the town works to balance safety, compliance, and property owner responsibilities.

Read the full story in the Conway Daily Sun

 

In Madison, NH, two couples are taking legal action against the town's zoning board for denying their request to use their property as a short-term rental. The case, "Chad and Brittney Ardizzoni and Aaron and Tiffany Clymer v. the Town of Madison and the Town of Madison Zoning Board of Adjustment," is now being reviewed by Judge Michael Klass in Manchester.

Background:

• The couples, from Londonderry and Hooksett, purchased a home at 13 Lucerne Drive in Eidelweiss in June 2022.
• Madison banned new short-term rentals (STRs) in March 2022, but homes rented before 1987 are grandfathered.
• The zoning board considers STRs in Eidelweiss as commercial activity, which is prohibited in the residential district.

Legal Arguments:

• The homeowners argue their property has been used for short-term rentals since 2017 and should be grandfathered.
• They are represented by Matt Johnson, who claims the town's definition of "dwelling unit" is vague and unconstitutional.
• The ZBA upheld the violation notice, stating the property does not meet zoning ordinance definitions.

Current Status:

• The town must respond to the lawsuit by August 6.
• The homeowners seek to overturn the ZBA's decision or have the case reheard with new instructions.

This case highlights ongoing tensions between property owners and local zoning regulations regarding short-term rentals.

Click here to read the full article in the Conway Daily Sun