🎯 STRisker: Bulletin - Soldotna, AK
Soldotna Considers Sweeping STR Updates as January 14 Hearings Approach
Soldotna Reviews New Short-Term Rental Taxes and Permits
Soldotna’s approach to short-term rentals could soon look very different. During its December 17 meeting, the City Council introduced two ordinances aimed squarely at existing short-term rental regulations, setting the stage for public hearings on January 14. Together, the proposals tackle how short-term rentals are taxed and whether all units should follow the same permitting rules.
The first ordinance, 2025-038, addresses taxation. While the city already requires short-term rental operators to collect a 4% tax in addition to city and borough sales taxes, the proposed amendments focus on clarity and consistency. The ordinance would revise Soldotna Municipal Code to clearly define which entities are exempt from the tax, including Alaska school districts, federally recognized tribal governments, and the University of Alaska.
The second ordinance, 2025-039, could have an even bigger day-to-day impact on hosts. Currently, Soldotna distinguishes between owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied short-term rentals. Only non-owner-occupied units must obtain permits and comply with rules such as occupancy limits, parking restrictions, signage regulations, and maintaining a local point of contact.
The proposed ordinance would eliminate that distinction entirely. All short-term rental units whether owner-occupied or not would be required to obtain an administrative permit and meet the same operational requirements. According to the council, the existing split has made enforcement inconsistent and left neighbors unsure who to contact when issues arise.
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The ordinance also introduces a revised definition of a short-term rental, covering any dwelling rented for compensation for less than 30 days. In doing so, it removes the current definition of owner-occupied units from city code altogether.
With public hearings scheduled for January 14, short-term rental owners have a clear window to review the ordinances and share feedback. The outcome could redefine permitting expectations and tax administration for Soldotna’s short-term rental market moving forward.
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