Regulations for short-term rentals considered

The Mason County Planning Department wants public input regarding future regulations for short-term vacation rentals.

The Planning Advisory Committee and Mason County commissioners are working on drafting regulations, according to the information packet.

The department sent postcards to shoreline lot owners requesting their input on the issue through a survey accessed by QR code or a link provided on the county’s website.

“The department has received an increasing number of reports from Mason County residents expressing concern over short-term rentals, especially on shoreline fronting lots.

The concerns range from overuse of septic systems, beach trespassing and harvesting, and noise complaints.

At the same time, the department also knows that short-term vacation rentals may make shoreline residency more affordable for residents of the county, as well as provide experiences for nonresidents that may rarely be possible along with the financial boost to businesses that these guests may partake of,” according to the county website.

Community members who want to take the survey can go to https://tinyurl.com/ye2yacvz