🎯 STRisker: Bulletin - Miami, FL
Brickell Residents Push Back: ‘We’re Not a Hotel Zone’
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Brickell Residents Push Back: ‘We’re Not a Hotel Zone’
Brickell condo owners have had enough. In one of Miami’s most upscale, high-rise neighborhoods, residents are raising their voices — and filing complaints — about short-term rentals they say are threatening their community’s peace, safety, and integrity.
Although short-term rentals are permitted in certain areas of Miami, Brickell’s residential towers are strictly off-limits. Still, illegal rentals are quietly making their way in.
According to Ernesto Cuesta, president of the Brickell Homeowners Association, some tenants are abusing 30-day lease agreements as a cover for daily rentals.
“That lease is being used as a cover-up to rent on a daily basis to other people,” Cuesta explained.
Frustrated residents have turned to the city demanding stronger enforcement. Since January, over 120 short-term rental complaints have been filed with the City of Miami. While city officials say they respond to every case — and some have led to property liens — many in Brickell feel the response hasn’t been strong or swift enough.
"We fear if we don't have control on that, Brickell might become a South Beach," Cuesta warned, referencing the beachside area often criticized for its party-house rental culture.
Miami officials maintain that enforcement is in place.
“Code compliance responds to all short-term rental complaints, regardless of location,” said Orlando Rodriguez, Assistant Director for the City’s Office of Communications.
Learn more about Code Compliance - Miami
Each report goes through a formal process, from investigation to adjudication, if needed.
Airbnb, one of the major platforms associated with short-term rentals, emphasized that hosts are required to follow local laws.
“We maintain an active line of communication with Miami to help uphold the city’s short-term rental laws,” the company said in a statement, adding that all hosts must register, comply with zoning, and post their license numbers publicly.
Still, residents say more needs to be done. From tighter monitoring to harsher penalties, the Brickell community is urging city leaders to crack down — before the issue spirals further.
"We’re not against tourism," Cuesta said. "But this is our home. And we deserve the same peace and order we’re paying taxes for."
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