Editor:
We live in a quiet corner of Sechelt zoned for single-family homes. A couple of years ago the house next door was sold and started operating as an “owner absent” short-term rental, which advertises space for eight people and two dogs. Recently the owners decided to add an additional suite over the garage and are currently advertising this new space for up to five persons and their pets. So now at capacity this “hotel” could sleep a total of 13 people and their pets in a house that was originally home for two.
We were shocked to learn that the absent owners are not breaking any of the District of Sechelt regulations and bylaws pertaining to STRs. We thought that our investment in a single-family home in an area zoned for just that would be protected from an encroachment of a hotel-like facility.
We want other Sechelt residents to be fully aware and appreciate what can happen to their neighbourhood under the current District of Sechelt bylaws pertaining to the operation of an STR.
Martin & Deirdre Mendes, Sechelt
