Portsmouth, RI, Planner Lays Out STR Ordinance Options

10/20/2026

Portsmouth, Rhode Island, is considering updates to its short-term rental ordinance, which currently covers approximately 150 non-owner-occupied, whole-house rentals. Town Planner Lea Hitchen outlined potential changes, including owner-occupancy requirements for new rentals, special-use permits, density limits, revised occupancy and parking rules, and restrictions on parties and commercial events. She compared Portsmouth’s regulations with those in neighboring communities, including Middletown and Bristol. Council members requested a balanced stakeholder group to review the proposals and consider residents’ concerns alongside property owners’ interests. No regulatory changes were approved, and Hitchen will work with council members to develop the group’s proposed membership.

Uprise RI (10/15/26) Adriana Vossari

Why It Matters: The proposals could restrict non-owner-occupied rentals and limit industry growth. The planned stakeholder group offers property managers an opportunity to advocate for reasonable regulations that protect existing operators.