How New Milford Handles Short-Term Rentals: A Practical Guide
New Milford maintains 37 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with short-term rentals. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where New Milford falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Parking Rules
STR guest parking must comply with New Milford zoning off-street parking standards; on-street parking is limited and prohibited on the traveled portion of public highways.
Key details: Off-Street: Per zoning standards. On-Street: Limited; not on travel lane. Regulated Under: Zoning + Ch. 20. Enforcement: Police.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Noise Rules
STR guests in New Milford are bound by the town's noise nuisance standard — noise that unreasonably disturbs neighbors can be cited, particularly overnight.
Key details: Applies: Noise nuisance standard. Decibel Chart: Not published. Enforced By: Police. Focus: Nighttime disturbances.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Taxes & Fees
Connecticut imposes a 15% state room occupancy tax on lodging rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days (CGS §12-407), which applies to short-term rentals. New Milford levies no separate local lodging tax.
Key details: State Tax: 15% room occupancy. Authority: CGS §12-407. Threshold: Rentals under 30 days. Local Tax: None additional.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Permit Requirements
Connecticut has no statewide STR preemption, so New Milford regulates short-term rentals through its zoning regulations. Transient lodging must conform to the underlying residential zone.
Key details: State Preemption: None (local control). Regulated Under: New Milford zoning. Authority: CGS §7-148 home rule. Contact: Planning & Zoning.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
The Bottom Line
New Milford's short-term rentals rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming New Milford is broadly strict or permissive.
All of the above reflects New Milford's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.