A new ordinance has gone into effect in Christiansburg as of July 1.
The homestay ordinance was passed on January 22nd in response to the popularity of home-based lodging, such as Airbnb rentals. The ordinance requires Christiansburg residents to obtain an annual permit to be a homestay host. Residents are also required to register with the finance department for collection of fees and taxes. A safety inspection must also be completed before a permit can be issued.
A town spokesperson tells WFXR that so far, 16 permit applications have been submitted. Seven of those applications have been approved and nine are pending.
