MANTI—A large crowd filled the Manti City Council chambers on Wednesday, April 15, as many residents turned out for two public hearings on proposed updates to ordinances governing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and short-term rentals (STRs).

The hearings gave community members an opportunity to review draft changes and voice comments before the council votes on the ordinances in May. Many attendees expressed appreciation for the extensive work by the council and the city’s planning and zoning commission, which have discussed the issues for more than a year in an effort to craft practical, forward-looking rules.

ADUs are secondary living spaces built next to or attached to a primary home. They are often used for rental income or to house extended family members, such as aging parents.

Speakers repeatedly thanked city leaders for seeking workable solutions that support housing needs while preserving Manti’s character. However, several residents expressed disappointment in past interactions with the city and that the proposals are too rigid for some properties. They noted that certain unique homes and lots do not fit neatly into the “box” created by the draft rules, and that overly strict conditions could hamper owners who want to make improvements and better use their properties.

A recurring theme was the importance of plain language in the final ordinance. Residents stressed that the intent of the rules must align closely with how city staff will interpret and enforce them. Several urged the council to scrutinize provisions that could be overly vague or open to broad interpretation. Council members noted that robust public input at this stage allows for refinement before any final adoption.

The proposed STR ordinance sparked a lively discussion, highlighted by an early mix-up over whether the rules would apply to platforms like Airbnb.

One property owner sought confirmation that the ordinance excluded Airbnb-style rentals, only to have officials initially affirm the exemption. Later comments clarified that the draft did, in fact, cover such short-term vacation rentals, revealing an inaccuracy in the printed version. The exchange underscored the value of public participation in catching errors before they become law.

The most debated provision was a proposed limit of five bedrooms and ten occupants per STR property. Council member Jenn Christiansen suggested raising the occupant cap to 15 to better reflect Utah’s tradition of large family gatherings. Others proposed measuring by ten adults instead, pointing out that many rentals serve families visiting the nearby Manti Temple.

Property owners emphasized that they already enforce quiet hours, parking restrictions, and bans on large parties. Several noted that problems have largely stemmed from a single oversized property that functioned more like a lodge than a typical family rental. Commenters also questioned rules addressing stays of up to 30 days, saying that most bookings last only one or two nights, with five-day stays being uncommon.

Proposed ordinance documents are available for review at Manti city offices. Mayor Mary Wintch, along with City Manager Jason Brown and council members, encouraged residents to give feedback.

The council is scheduled to vote on the final versions during its meeting on the second Wednesday of May rather than the usual first Wednesday.

City officials emphasized that community involvement now will help shape balanced regulations that support housing options and tourism while protecting neighborhood quality of life in Manti.

Residents with questions or comments are invited to contact city offices or attend the upcoming May meeting.