Happy Friday!
Another week brings more updates in the ever-evolving world of short-term rentals. From new regulations in Santa Cruz County and Amsterdam to the rising popularity of mid-term rentals, there's plenty to discuss. Let’s dive into this week’s highlights.
Santa Cruz County (California) supervisors have unanimously approved new measures to regulate short-term vacation rentals in an effort to address the housing crisis and preserve residential units for residents. The new regulations require online platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to remove listings without the necessary permits or face penalties. Also, landlords must pay 6 months of rent to evicted tenants if their property becomes a vacation rental. As of last fall, about 70 units in the county were listed without proper permits. The supervisors expressed concern about the potential impact on the local tourism industry if the number of short-term rentals decreases. To address this, the board voted on Tuesday to direct county staff to explore options for increasing hotel capacity in the area.
Amsterdam is tightening regulations on short-term rentals in the city center and the De Pijp neighborhood in the Zuid district. The City Council plans to reduce the maximum number of rental days per year from 30 to 15 in an effort to address ongoing tourism-related issues in these areas. If these measures do not prove effective, a complete ban on short-term rentals may be considered. The Council is expected to finalize its decision by December 2025, with new rules potentially taking effect in 2026.
Mid-term rentals (MTRs) are becoming increasingly popular in the Twin Cities and beyond, offering stays longer than a vacation but shorter than a year. Jon Wolf launched MiniStays to cater to business travelers, digital nomads, and families in transition. The platform has gained traction by addressing the needs of people affected by natural disasters, such as those displaced by hurricanes and wildfires. MTRs grew in demand during the pandemic, with many seeking furnished, flexible accommodations.
A California court has overturned Measure T, the 2018 voter-approved ban on vacation rentals in residential areas of South Lake Tahoe. The ruling came after concerns were raised that the measure’s exception for permanent residents violated constitutional property rights. As a result of this decision, property owners can once again apply for vacation rental permits in residential zones. Legal experts caution that the city may face lawsuits from homeowners seeking compensation for lost rental income. City officials are currently reviewing the ruling and considering their next steps.
As we wrap up the week, it’s great to see a win for vacation rentals in South Lake Tahoe. These ongoing legal battles and regulatory changes highlight just how dynamic the industry continues to be.
We’re also gearing up for two incredible events in the coming weeks! Next week, we’ll be at STRive to Thrive conference in Austrailia (March 19-20), followed by the STRive to Thrive conference in New Zealand (March 25-26). If you’re attending either event, be sure to stop by our booth and say hello. We’d love to connect with you! Have a fantastic weekend!
