Coastal Commission Approves City-Backed Changes to STR Program

In a move that shows why the NBSTRA is needed, the California Coastal Commission approved City-sponsored changes to the STR program (see agenda item #12) in the City without meaningful input from the STR industry. These changes were initiated before the formation of NBSTRA.

Of significance, the City created 75 new permits in mixed-use (rather than residential) zones, and moved these 75 permits to the front of the line. This effectively added six to seven years or more to Newport Beach property owners who have already waited patiently on the STR Wait List for years.

NBSTRA is not opposed in principle to permits in mixed-use zones. In fact, this can help spotlight one of the great benefits of STRs, that our guests spend more locally and support more local, small businesses in the community than day-trip guests or hotel visitors. Having some STR permits in mixed use zones will support those small businesses.

But we feel strongly that moving these permits to the front of the line, without industry input, shows that we need to have a stronger voice at City Hall. We also know that there are other areas where local businesses could use a boost from greater STR guest traffic, and that should be part of the conversation at City Hall.