Daily Regulatory Notes 03/27/2025

Every day, we bring you a detailed overview of recent news and updates about primary decisions, community feedback, or legislative changes relevant to the short-term rental industry. 📰

Saranac Lake, NY

The Saranac Lake Board of Trustees is reviewing amendments to its short-term rental law, including removing special circumstances caps and exempting owner-occupied rentals from existing permit limits.

During an in-depth discussion with the Development Board and consultant Matthew Rogers, officials considered defining STRs as commercial properties, the impact of density-based regulations, and the need for clear permit approval metrics. Mayor Jimmy Williams emphasized the importance of establishing measurable guidelines to avoid disputes between neighbors.

Pinellas County, FL

Daily Regulatory Notes 03/26/2025

Cities address STRs. California introduces bill; Buffalo, NY reviews amendments; Pinellas County, FL considers regulations; Eagle County, CO reviews regulations; Waynesville, NC advances draft. READ MORE.

STRisker - Short-term regulatory changes and newsGenelaine Urbano

Pinellas County commissioners have adopted a new short-term rental ordinance, requiring owners in unincorporated areas to obtain a Certificate of Use for rentals of fewer than 30 days more than three times a year.

The ordinance establishes occupancy limits, parking requirements, and mandatory quiet hours while also introducing a $150 safety inspection. Code enforcement will oversee compliance, and applications for the certificate open on March 31, with annual renewals costing $450. The ordinance does not impact incorporated cities like Gulfport, which have their own zoning rules for short-term rentals.

Lincoln County, OR

Lincoln County commissioners have voted to reduce the number of short-term rental licenses in two zones east of Highway 101 instead of issuing the 17 currently available.

This move accompanies the expiration of a years-long moratorium on new applications, effective March 31. Commissioners also requested a review of the licensing program, enforcement effectiveness, and public sentiment, potentially through a survey.

Cleveland Heights, OH

Cleveland Heights City Council is working to finalize long-debated short-term rental regulations but potential state legislation may limit local enforcement.

At the March 17 meeting, officials noted that the proposed ordinance remains under law department review. The Housing and Building Committee aims to advance the legislation at its April 7 meeting though the city is also monitoring state-level efforts that could impact its regulatory authority.

⭐ Staying ahead of STR regulations isn’t just about deadlines—it’s about knowing what’s coming. Check out the Calendar Tracker to stay updated on your area's meetings or workshops.

Juneau, AK

Juneau’s newly formed short-term rental task force is evaluating whether stronger regulations are needed for the city’s growing Airbnb and VRBO market, currently estimated at 300-400 units.

While short-term rentals have been required to register since 2023, concerns over their impact on long-term housing availability persist. Recommendations from the group will be presented to the Assembly, which will decide on any regulatory changes.

Clewiston, FL

Clewiston city commissioners approved the first reading of an ordinance introducing new oversight for short-term rentals, addressing safety and zoning concerns.

Proposed regulations include annual permits, mandatory safety inspections for compliance with fire safety standards, and decals identifying rental properties for first responders. The city seeks to prevent improper zoning use and ensure rentals are well-maintained to support tourism.

Manistee, MI

Manistee’s Planning Commission has approved a proposed short-term rental ordinance which will now go before the City Council. The ordinance establishes a registration system with a $250 annual fee, triennial inspections, and penalties for non-compliance.

A proposed short-term rental overlay district would exempt certain areas—such as lakefront properties and downtown—from a citywide rental cap. The ordinance also includes safety and operational regulations, including local contact requirements, occupancy limits, and fire safety measures. If approved, a lottery system will determine registrations if applications exceed availability.

In case you missed it:

Global Regulatory Notes (5)

Know the latest on STRs across the Globe. British Columbia; Muskoka Lakes, Ontario; Montreal, Quebec; Tiny Township, Ontario; Amsterdam; Salzburg, Austria; Barcelona, Spain; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. READ MORE

STRisker - Short-term regulatory changes and newsGenelaine Urbano