Laconia Planning Board rewrites short term lodging ordinance for stricter zoning regulations

The Planning Board Meeting held on April 1, 2025, in Laconia, New Hampshire, focused on significant updates to the city’s short-term lodging ordinance and zoning amendments aimed at aligning with the city’s master plan.

The meeting commenced with discussions surrounding the proposed changes to the short-term lodging ordinance. A key point of contention was the removal of the grandfathering clause that previously allowed existing short-term rentals to continue operating under a special exception if they had been in use for five years. The board emphasized that the new ordinance would standardize criteria for special exceptions, allowing the zoning board greater discretion to deny applications that do not align with neighborhood standards or city services. This change aims to ensure that new short-term rentals are compatible with residential areas.

The board clarified that existing short-term rental permits would be treated as pre-existing nonconforming uses, allowing them to continue for up to 12 months after the ordinance change, provided they do not cease operations. However, if ownership of a property changes, the new owner must apply for a new permit under the updated regulations, which include a requirement for the property to be the owner's primary residence for at least 200 days a year.

Following the discussion on short-term lodging, the board addressed a zoning ordinance amendment concerning the residential apartment district. The amendment proposed to rezone a parcel on Newberry Lane from residential single-family to residential apartment, aligning with the city’s master plan for population growth and mid-market housing. The board unanimously approved the motion to refer this amendment to the city council for adoption.

The meeting also included a proposal for adding five self-contained RV sites to an existing campground on Lakeside Avenue. The applicant, representing the New Hampshire Veterans Association, confirmed that a surveyor would assess the property to ensure compliance with setback requirements. The board approved the application, contingent upon the completion of necessary permits and conditions.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the Planning Board's commitment to updating ordinances to reflect community needs and development goals. The board will reconvene next month to continue discussions on these and other planning initiatives.