Soldotna planning director drafts code change to replace court citations with civil fines

Soldotna owners listing rentals without a city permit would face staff-issued fines instead of court-filed citations under a code amendment being drafted, economic development and planning director Deven Mitchell told the Planning and Zoning Commission on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

"I am working in another code amendment to switch from minor offense citation to civil fines," Mitchell said. Citations go on court records and must be served in person by a police officer. Cases can drag on for a year or longer, while civil fines could accumulate faster. A boarded-up building off Arlington sold only after two years of enforcement. A minor offense citation carries a $250 fine.

The push follows a March 2026 amendment setting uniform permit and density standards for short-term rentals, and a 2022 ordinance on accessory dwelling units. The city issued 18 permits in July and August. "So we're getting compliance from those that needed it," Mitchell said. At least six rentals remain out of compliance. Staff gives up to three warnings before citing. A monitoring contract flags new Airbnb and Vrbo listings. No rental operators spoke at the meeting.