Southold currently requires a 2-week minimum stay for rentals. Fishers Island has been exempt due to its isolation and lack of hotels. This survey was taken in early 2026.
Southold is revising its short-term rental code to address a year-round housing shortage caused by the commercialization of homes as short-term rentals. The proposed new code would cap the number of homes that can be rented for under 30 days. Rentals over 30 days would remain unrestricted.
Question: Should Fishers Island maintain its exemption, or adopt the new Southold rules?
Result: 49 responses — 78% YES, 22% NO
Aggregated comments (13 responses)
1. FI is different from the rest of Southold (most common theme) The island’s housing challenges stem from different causes than mainland Southold’s. No hotels or commercial alternatives make short-term rentals essential.
2. Short-term rentals on FI serve legitimate community needs Many are long-term repeat renters with strong community ties. Others support weddings, family events, and visiting friends.
3. Economic necessity for owners Many owners rent short-term to cover taxes and preserve family homes — not for commercial gain.
4. Don’t fix what isn’t broken No strong evidence that the current exemption has caused problems; leave it alone.
5. Concerns about short-term renters’ commitment A minority feel that renters under two weeks don’t invest in or care about the island. One commenter advocated a one-month minimum.
6. Prefer alternative solutions Rather than restricting rentals, focus on incentives: winterizing homes, tax relief for year-round owners, and conveyance tax waivers for sales to year-round residents.
