In response to Chelan County’s proposal to make radical changes to its short term rental code adopted in 2021, we have prepared an updated fact sheet. This fact sheet includes data on the current status of short term rentals in the unincorporated areas of the county and information about why these regulations are so important. It summarizes the impacts of short term rentals on: housing availability and costs; economic benefits and costs; and the health of communities. It also provides a synopsis of the lengthy process involved in adopting the current code.
The code we have today is the result of over 2 years of research and analysis and well over 1,000 public comments during the numerous public hearings. The current ordinance is based on sound data and reflects a fair compromise between residents and STR owners and advocates.
In contrast, the proposed changes are not based on data and analysis. Instead, they are the result of special interest groups again trying to make more money at the expense of residents and our small communities.