🎯 STRisker: Bulletin - Riley County, KS
Riley County's New STR Rules to Reduce Conflicts and Improve Oversight in Rural Areas
New Distance, New Rules: Riley County’s Rural STR Update Moves Ahead
Riley County is taking another step toward refining how short-term rentals operate in its unincorporated areas. A new set of proposed regulations aims to tighten management, ensure tax compliance, and improve responsiveness when issues arise — all while keeping rural neighborhoods calm and orderly.
Among the standout changes: STRs must now maintain at least 500 feet of separation from each other. County staff say that simple buffer should help ease parking woes, cut down on traffic congestion, and reduce noise complaints from nearby residents. In addition, property owners will be required to settle all property taxes and county fees before they can receive or renew their STR license.
One of the most notable shifts targets communication and accountability. Under the proposal, each STR must designate a Responsible Agent who can respond in person within an hour of any complaint or emergency. “This ensures that property managers can address issues quickly and renters can get immediate help when needed,” said Amanda Webb, Planning and Development Director.
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Currently, around 30 STRs operate in the county’s unincorporated zones, but the new rules could shape how that number grows. The Planning Board already voted to recommend approval on October 20, setting up the next step — a public hearing before the Manhattan Urban Area Planning Board on November 3. Afterward, the Riley County Board of County Commissioners will review the amendments in mid-November.
Public participation remains welcome. Residents can share comments at regular BOCC meetings or send written input before the mid-November vote. If passed, the changes would take effect immediately, applying to all new and renewed STR licenses.
These discussions started earlier this year after the county examined how other regions were tackling the same challenges, including concerns aired at the 2024 Kansas Association of Counties Conference. For Riley County, it’s about modernizing rural rules to reflect today’s realities — and making sure short-term rentals are good neighbors, not local nuisances.
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