News You Can Use – March 3, 2026 – TOP STORY: Newport Beach targets STR party houses with new shade rules
1) TOP STORY: Newport Beach, CA — New Rules to Curb "Unruly" STR Parties
City leaders have unanimously adopted a new public safety package specifically designed to rein in large, unmanaged parties at short-term rentals and on the beach during major holiday weekends. A key component of the ordinance restricts beach shade structures to a maximum of 6x6 feet and prohibits the linking of multiple tents. The Newport Beach Short-Term Rental Alliance (NBSTRA) was featured in the discussion, highlighting the industry's role in maintaining community character while ensuring that safety regulations are practical and enforceable for responsible hosts. Links: – LA Times / Daily Pilot
2) Idaho — Senate Committee Opts for Looser STR Restrictions
In a significant shift from the version passed by the House, an Idaho Senate committee has moved forward with a version of the short-term rental bill that preserves more local government control. While the original bill sought to strictly curb municipal authority, the Senate's amendments allow cities more leeway to define and enforce "reasonable" health and safety regulations. Links: – KTVB – CDA Press
3) Maui, HI — Thousands of Units Closer to Disappearing
The Maui Planning Commission has denied a proposal to create new hotel districts that would have protected a specific list of existing short-term rentals. This decision brings thousands of units on the "Minatoya List" one step closer to a total phase-out as the county prioritizes long-term housing for residents following the 2023 wildfires. Links: – Hawaii News Now – Beat of Hawaii
4) Evanston, IL — Overhaul Passes on Third Attempt
After several delays and intense public debate, the Evanston City Council has officially passed a comprehensive overhaul of its short-term rental ordinance. The new rules include stricter licensing requirements and lower occupancy limits, though many property owners remain concerned about the potential impact on local tourism revenue. Links: – Evanston RoundTable – Evanston Now
5) Ocean City, MD — Residents Relieved as Moratorium Ends
Following the City Council's decision to rescind the recent short-term rental moratorium, local residents and property owners are expressing relief. The end of the pause allows the city to return to a standardized permitting process while officials continue to evaluate long-term density caps in residential zones. Links: – WMDT
6) Jacksonville Beach, FL — Police Alert for "Takeover Parties"
Police are on high alert following reports of potential "takeover parties" being organized at local vacation rentals. Authorities are working closely with hosting platforms to monitor suspicious bookings and prevent the large, unpermitted gatherings that have caused disturbances in other coastal communities. Links: – News4Jax
7) Del Mar, CA — Council Approves New Rental Fees
The Del Mar City Council has approved a new fee structure for short-term rentals to cover the rising costs of enforcement and administration. The fees are part of a broader effort to ensure the rental market remains self-sustaining without straining municipal resources. Links: – San Diego Union-Tribune
8) Kendall County, IL — New Rules Officially Approved
Kendall County has approved its first formal set of regulations for short-term rentals in unincorporated areas. The ordinance establishes a mandatory licensing framework and introduces new safety standards to manage the growing market. Links: – WSPY News
9) Hocking Hills, OH — Proposed Rules Draw Opposition
New proposed regulations in the Hocking Hills region are facing significant pushback from property owners. The dispute centers on whether the new requirements are a necessary safety measure or an "unnecessary and burdensome" hurdle for one of the state's premier tourism destinations. Links: – 10TV Columbus
10) Covington, KY — Formal Opposition to State Preemption
The City of Covington has joined other Kentucky municipalities in formally opposing Senate Bill 104, which would limit local authority over short-term rentals. City leaders argue that state-level control ignores the unique zoning and safety needs of individual neighborhoods. Links: – Link NKY
11) Fairview Park, OH — Police Chief Defends STR Ban
The Fairview Park Police Chief has publicly defended the city's decision to maintain a total ban on short-term rentals. Citing safety concerns and the difficulty of policing transient guests, the chief argued that the ban is essential for preserving the peace of residential areas. Links: – Cleveland.com
12) Talbot County, MD — Council Looks to Relax Rules
In a rare move, the Talbot County Council is considering relaxing certain short-term rental rules to help bolster the local tourism economy. Proponents argue that the current restrictions have become an unnecessary hurdle for compliant property owners. Links: – Star Democrat
13) Des Plaines, IL — Council Reconsiders Restrictions
The Des Plaines City Council is again weighing a proposal to restrict short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods. Officials are debating whether to implement a formal licensing system or maintain a more restrictive approach to address ongoing noise complaints. Links: – Daily Herald
14) Green Bay, WI — Ordinance Changes Move Forward
Green Bay is moving forward with proposed updates to its short-term rental ordinance, focusing on a more streamlined registration process. The changes aim to provide better data for the city while ensuring all hosts are meeting basic safety requirements. Links: – WBAY
15) La Quinta, CA — Enforcement Flyers Sent Ahead of Festival Season
Ahead of the busy spring festival season, the City of La Quinta has sent out enforcement flyers to all registered short-term rental owners. The notices serve as a reminder of the city's zero-tolerance policy for noise and occupancy violations. Links: – KESQ
16) Hudson, NY — Officials Weighing New STR Law
City officials in Hudson are currently reviewing a proposed law that would regulate the operation of short-term rentals for the first time. The legislation seeks to balance the city's popularity as a getaway destination with the need for stable long-term housing. Links: – News 10 Albany
17) Atascadero, CA — Steps Taken Toward First Ordinance
The Atascadero City Council has taken the first formal steps toward drafting its own short-term rental ordinance. Following community feedback, officials are focused on creating a framework that includes registration and basic nuisance controls. Links: – Atascadero News
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