Short-Term Rental (STR) Regulations in Paonia FAQs:
What You Need to Know; Special Election to be Held on April 1,2025 to Determine Whether or Not the Ordinance will become Effective or be Repealed
Paonia residents and potential short-term rental (STR) operators have a few important updates regarding new regulations set to take effect in the coming months. To ensure clarity, we’ve compiled answers to some frequently asked questions surrounding these changes.
1. Can you confirm whether STR applications will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis?
Yes, STR applications in Paonia will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. This means that once applications open, the first eligible applicants will be given priority for permit issuance, as long as all requirements are met. It is crucial for interested parties to submit their applications promptly to secure a spot in the application process. There is currently a cap on the number of licenses at thirty (30), applicants should be aware that there is a waiting list that may be established once the limit is reached.
2. Is it correct that prior applicants were informed that checks for application fees would be held until after the special election vote on April 1, 2025?
Yes, that’s correct. Those who submitted STR applications before the special election will have their application fee checks held, but they will not be processed or deposited until after the special election, which is set for April 1, 2025. This decision was made in light of potential changes to the STR regulations, pending the outcome of the vote.
3. Can you confirm that the application deadline is also April 1, 2025?
Yes, the application deadline for submitting STR permit applications is set for April 1, 2025. Any applications submitted after this date will not be considered for the current cycle, so applicants are encouraged to ensure their submissions are completed in time. The April 1st deadline coincides with the special election vote, which could influence the final structure of STR regulations.
Application Process FAQs
4. What is the process for applying for an STR permit in Paonia? To apply for an STR permit, interested property owners must complete the application form available on the town’s official website or at the local planning office. The form requires basic information such as the property address, proof of ownership, and planned rental dates. Once the form is submitted, it will be reviewed by the town’s planning department. If the application meets all requirements, it will be processed, and applicants will be notified about the next steps.
5. Are there any fees associated with submitting an STR application? Yes, there is an application fee, which covers the review and processing of the application. This fee varies depending on the type of STR rental listed in the application. As mentioned earlier, any checks for these fees will be held until after the special election in April 2025, as per the current guidelines.
License Requirements FAQs
6. What are the basic requirements for obtaining a short-term rental license? To obtain an STR license in Paonia, applicants must meet several criteria:
- Property Ownership: You must own the property where the STR will operate. To find information on your property please click here: https://assessor.deltacountyco.gov/assessor/taxweb/search.jsp
- Zoning Compliance: The property must be located in an area zoned for STR use. This is outlined in the town’s zoning laws. Which may include a favorable decision for a Special Use Review depending on the zoning for the property.
- To find your zoning click here: https://townofpaonia.colorado.gov/sites/townofpaonia/files/2020-12/2018_zoning_map.pdf
- To find information on the Comprehensive (Master) Plan click here: https://townofpaonia.colorado.gov/government/town-plans-maps/town-of-paonia-comprehensive-plan-1996
- Safety Inspection: The property must pass a safety inspection to ensure it meets local health and safety codes.
- Proof of Insurance: Applicants will need to provide proof of adequate insurance coverage for their STR operation.
- Payment of Fees: The appropriate application and licensing fees must be paid (fees will be processed after the special election, as previously mentioned).
7. Are there any restrictions on the number of STRs allowed in Paonia? Yes, there are likely to be restrictions based on the outcome of the upcoming special election, the current ordinance limits the amount of STR licenses to thirty (30). Some provisions under consideration may limit the number of STR permits granted within certain areas or restrict permits in residential-only zones. Stay informed as the election results could significantly impact these regulations.
Special Use Review Process FAQs
8. What is the Special Use Review Process? The Special Use Review Process is designed for properties that fall outside of the typical zoning for STR use or require additional review before receiving a permit. This review ensures that the proposed short-term rental aligns with Paonia’s overall goals for community development and neighborhood integrity. In the current Ordinance, a Special Use Review is required for any STR application in: R-1; R-2; R-3 or E-1.
9. How does the Special Use Review process work? If your property requires a Special Use Permit (due to zoning issues or other factors), you will need to submit a Special Use Application. This application will be reviewed by Paonia’s Planning Commission, and their recommendation forwarded to, the Board of Trustees for final determination. The Commission will schedule a public hearing to discuss the application and gather feedback from residents before making a decision. If approved, you will be granted a Special Use Permit, allowing you to complete the application for an STR license. Important to note: your place in line for an STR license is secured while going through the Special Use Review process. Upon a favorable review and completion of other requirements in the STR licensing process a license will be issued to you. Should you receive an unfavorable review, your place in the STR line will be forfeited and the next person in line will be considered.
10. How long does the Special Use Review Process take? The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the scheduling of public hearings. Generally, it may take a few weeks to a couple of months from application submission to final approval. Applicants should be prepared for possible delays, especially if their application is subject to additional public scrutiny and review by the Board of Trustees.
Additional Key Information on STR Regulations in Paonia
- Special Election Details: The special election on April 1, 2025, will play a key role in determining the future of STR regulations in Paonia. Local residents will vote on critical issues such as maximum occupancy limits, allowable locations for STRs, and whether additional restrictions should be imposed.
- Why the Changes?: Paonia officials have said that the new regulations aim to balance the growing demand for short-term rental opportunities with the need to protect the town’s residential character and affordability for locals.
- How do I Review the Ordinance?: Click here for the Ordinance on the ballot for April 1, 2025: https://townofpaonia.colorado.gov/media/4891
Stay tuned for further updates as the April 1st election approaches, and make sure you’re fully prepared to submit your STR application on time.