🎯 STRisker: Bulletin - Midway, UT
New Year, New Rules: Midway Updates Its Short-Term Rental Standards
Midway’s New STR Rulebook Brings Clarity, Contact Info, and Darker Skies
Midway is giving its short-term rental regulations a well-needed tune-up, aiming to boost neighborhood peace while keeping its Transient Rental Overlay District running smoothly. On Tuesday, the city council signed off on several changes that tighten expectations for hosts and property managers, building on earlier conversations sparked by resident concerns about nightly rental disruptions.
A key theme emerged throughout the discussion: short-term rentals have changed, and the city’s policies needed to catch up. City Planner Katie Villani pointed out that STRs today often operate without any face-to-face interaction between hosts and guests—a big shift from how rentals worked in the past.
To put some accountability back into the mix, Midway is now requiring every STR to post a prominent identification plaque with the property manager’s name and contact information. The idea is simple: if neighbors hear noise late at night or spot something concerning, they shouldn’t have to guess who to call. The city also approved tougher consequences for rule violations. If a host loses their nightly rental license, they’ll now face a one-year waiting period before they can apply again—double the previous six-month limit. Annual license renewals remain due Dec. 31, with late renewals triggering a 50% fine.
In another shift, property managers for STRs must now be licensed directly through Midway City, though they can operate from anywhere in Wasatch County. Within the TROD, hosts must hold a business license themselves and must hire a Midway-licensed property manager.
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One of the most talked-about additions is the new dark sky compliance rule, which will take effect when hosts renew their licenses at year-end. Nightly rentals must now follow the city’s light-shielding guidelines: fully shielded fixtures, no soffit lighting except over porches and decks, and intentional placement to minimize glare and light trespass. City leaders say the change helps protect Midway’s mountain-town atmosphere and may also reduce neighborhood disturbances.
Villani described the requirement as a fair exchange: if hosts stand to profit from STRs, investing in dark-sky protections is part of being a good neighbor.
Council members also revisited the ongoing debate over STRs and local housing affordability. Planning Director Michael Henke pushed back on the idea that STRs always worsen affordability, explaining that many buyers can only afford homes in Midway because short-term renting offsets the cost.
As the end of December approaches, both property managers and hosts should review the new rules carefully. From light shielding to licensing, Midway is making it clear that nightly rentals are welcome—but only if they fit comfortably into the community.
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