This week's update covers new laws, permit requirements, and regulation news for hosts in:

• Idaho

• Saratoga Springs, New York

• New Orleans, Louisiana

• Homer, Alaska

• Hillsboro, Oregon

• Deschutes County, Oregon

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This week's newsletter delves into the evolving landscape of short-term rental regulations across the U.S., from Idaho's legislative efforts to limit local government control, sparking debate among resort cities, to Saratoga Springs' contentious proposal for a licensing system amidst community divide. In New Orleans, a judge upholds stringent rental laws, potentially reshaping the city's residential areas. Meanwhile, Homer, Alaska, rejects an ordinance for rental registration, reflecting wider challenges in balancing housing needs with rental business interests. Hillsboro aims to streamline its rental process, reducing the burden on owners, and Deschutes County considers enhancing safety through stricter oversight, amid concerns over resource strain.

Idaho

Idaho's House Bill 506, introduced by Rep. Jordan Redman, aims to limit local governments' control over short-term rentals, sparking opposition from the Idaho Resort Cities Coalition. The bill prohibits cities from imposing restrictions on short-term rentals that don't apply to standard homes, covering a wide range of regulations from additional inspections to proximity limits. The recent ordinances in resort cities such as Ketchum, addressing safety and community concerns around short-term rentals, would be invalidated under this bill. The proposal has stirred debate on property rights versus local autonomy, with city officials and citizens urged to oppose the bill, emphasizing the need for sensible regulation to preserve community integrity.

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs' proposed short-term rental regulations, outlined by Commissioner Dillon Moran, have ignited a contentious debate. With over 1,200 out of 9,800 residences listed as short-term rentals, the new rules aim to legalize and regulate this activity through a licensing system, challenging the current prohibition on rentals under 28 days. The proposal includes a $1,000 fee for a two-year permit and safety requirements for rental properties. Critics argue it's an overreach, fearing it will drive renters away and impact local housing affordability. Supporters believe it's essential to address the disruptive impact of rental properties on neighborhoods. The tension underscores the community's divide on managing short-term rentals versus state intervention.

New Orleans

In a landmark decision, U.S. District Judge Ivan Lemelle upheld New Orleans' strict short-term rental law, dismissing claims against its constitutionality. The law, aiming to regulate rentals in residential areas, introduces a one-per-square-block permit limit and a ban on corporate ownership, among other measures. This ruling is seen as a victory for the City Council and housing advocates, aiming to preserve neighborhood integrity against the influx of tourists. While an appeal is expected, the city plans to enforce the new regulations, which could significantly reduce the number of short-term rentals. Critics argue the law unfairly targets property rights, but officials assert the importance of maintaining residential areas for families.

Homer

In Homer, Alaska, the City Council unanimously rejected a proposed ordinance requiring short-term rental operators to register their properties, after months of public and commission deliberation highlighted the community's divided stance on regulation. The ordinance aimed to address rentals offered on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, with stipulations including annual fees and safety inspections. Critics argued it wouldn't impact housing availability, while supporters sought to understand short-term rentals' effects on the community. The decision reflects broader challenges in balancing business interests, neighborhood integrity, and housing needs, as Alaska cities grapple with the growing presence of short-term rentals.

Hillsboro

Hillsboro is updating its short-term rental regulations to better define and manage properties listed on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. The new ordinance, which the City Council passed on first reading, clarifies that short-term rentals include any dwelling or bedroom rented for 30 days or less. Previously classified as bed and breakfasts, the revised code aims to streamline the permitting process, reducing the burden on owners. Key changes include simplified approval for rooms rented within owner-occupied homes and lower barriers for entire unit rentals, with permit fees significantly reduced. The ordinance also limits owners to two properties and bans rentals for large events, aiming to increase compliance and address the gap where 97% of rentals were not following city code.

Deschutes County

Deschutes County is exploring stricter regulations for short-term rentals outside Urban Growth Boundaries to enhance safety and reduce risks. Introduced to the Board of Commissioners in January, the proposal aims for better oversight through a business license program, addressing current enforcement challenges. This program would necessitate detailed property verifications, including compliance with Fire Life Safety standards and zoning. Despite potential benefits, concerns about the program's impact on departmental resources have emerged, with estimated startup costs between $500,000 to $1 million. Enforcement capacity and funding issues were highlighted, prompting a decision to further review the program at a later meeting.