By Joe Bachman
Multimedia Editor

STEVENS POINT — After approving the use of tourist rooming houses last month for units in the R-3 zoning district, planning officials have expanded the ordinance to lower classification districts.

Better known as ‘AirBnBs’, many have sprung up in the Stevens Point area. This gives the opportunity for any owner-occupied unit to rent space to another individual for a short period of time.

Now expanded to include lower classification residential districts, these are generally larger in size and located in more populated areas. City officials believe these will likely pop up in the downtown area and around the university.

However, for any owner looking to turn their extra room into an AirBnB, there will be regulations to follow as outlined on the city website. Staff will maintain and update an annual list of tourist room houses, as well as ensure compliance for those renting out units.

Planning officials voted unanimously on Monday night to approve the ordinance, and will see a final vote in council this month.