With little fanfare, the Langley City Council unanimously approved the second reading of an ordinance limiting short-term rentals in the Village by the Sea.

Proposed by Councilmember Craig Cyr, the new ordinance reduces the number of permits property owners can obtain for the purpose of renting out their entire homes or accessory dwelling units to vacationers.

Under the new regulations, Type IV short-term rental licenses to be issued in one year has gone from 30 to 15, and the maximum number of accessory dwelling units, attached or detached, used as short-term rentals has gone from 50 to 30.

Permits pertaining to the renting of a single room in a home are not affected by the changes.

The council is seeking a reduction in short-term rentals as a way to provide housing for year-round residents working in the city who may be struggling to find a place to live.