News You Can Use – March 23, 2026 – TOP STORY: Pennsylvania lawmaker introduces statewide regulation bill
1) TOP STORY: Pennsylvania — Statewide Regulation Bill Introduced
A Pennsylvania lawmaker has introduced a new bill aimed at establishing a uniform statewide framework for regulating short-term rentals. The legislation seeks to create a central registry and implement consistent taxation and safety standards, providing clear guidelines for both hosts and municipalities across the Commonwealth. Link: – abc27
2) Lafayette, LA — Federal Lawsuit Dismissed
A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit that challenged Lafayette’s restrictions on short-term rentals. The ruling upholds the city’s authority to implement its current ban in certain districts, reinforcing the legal standing of municipal control over vacation rental density. Links: – KLFY – The Advocate
3) Townsend, TN — Six-Month Moratorium Recommended
The Townsend Planning Commission has recommended a six-month moratorium on new short-term rental licenses. The proposed pause is designed to give town officials time to study the local housing market and refine zoning rules before permitting further growth in the rental sector. Links: – The Daily Times – WATE – WBIR
4) UPDATE: Pacifica, CA — Coastal Commission Decision Delayed
The California Coastal Commission has once again delayed its final decision on Pacifica's short-term rental regulations, pushing the matter out for another year. The postponement continues a period of regulatory uncertainty for property owners as the state evaluates the balance between visitor access and neighborhood preservation. Link: – Coastside News
5) Sacramento, CA — Hosts Push Back on Proposed Restrictions
Short-term rental hosts in Sacramento are actively opposing a new set of proposed city restrictions. Property owners argue that the measures are excessive and will hurt the local economy while making it more difficult for residents to generate necessary supplemental income. Link: – KCRA
6) UPDATE: Hocking Hills, OH — Lawyers Challenge Legality of Proposed Rules
Attorneys for a lodging owners' group are formally challenging the legality of proposed short-term rental regulations in the Hocking Hills region. The group argues that the proposed county rules infringe on property rights and exceed the local government's statutory authority. Link: – Logan Daily News
7) Navarre Beach, FL — Fire Fees for Rental Owners
Property owners on Navarre Beach may soon face doubled fire fees for homes utilized as short-term rentals. The increase is aimed at addressing the disproportionate demand that high-turnover rentals place on local fire and emergency services. Link: – PNJ (Video)
8) Chincoteague, VA — Residential Rental Halt Considered
The town of Chincoteague is weighing a proposal to stop the issuance of new short-term rental permits in residential districts. Officials are considering the halt to protect the town's year-round housing stock and preserve the character of its neighborhoods. Link: – WBOC
9) UPDATE: Hudson, NY — Council Modifies Proposed Law
The Hudson City Council has introduced several changes to its draft short-term rental law following a series of public meetings. The modified proposal seeks a middle ground on licensing limits and operational requirements before heading to a final vote. Link: – Daily Gazette
10) Smithfield, RI — Draft Ordinance Unveiled
Smithfield has unveiled its first formal draft ordinance to govern Airbnb and other vacation rentals. The proposed rules focus on mandatory registration, annual safety inspections, and clear occupancy limits to manage the growing local market. Link: – Valley Breeze
11) UPDATE: Decatur, AL — Applications Open April 1st
The City of Decatur has confirmed that it will begin accepting short-term rental applications on April 1st under its recently approved ordinance. Operators will have a 90-day grace period to secure licenses and bring their properties into compliance with the new safety standards. Link: – Rocket City Now
12) Baytown, TX — P&Z Rejects Proposed Rules
The Baytown Planning and Zoning Commission has rejected a set of proposed short-term rental regulations. The commission opted not to move forward with the draft, leaving the local market without formal restrictions for the time being. Link: – Baytown Sun
13) UPDATE: Alpena, MI — Moratorium Officially Implemented
Alpena city officials have officially enacted a moratorium on new short-term rental permits. The pause was prompted by deepening concerns over a lack of available long-term workforce housing in the region. Link: – Spectrum Local News
14) UPDATE: Charleston County, SC — New Notification Rules Explored
Charleston County is exploring new notification rules that would require hosts to inform their neighbors before a short-term rental license is granted. The move is part of an effort to increase transparency and address residential concerns before properties are authorized for rent. Link: – Live 5 News (Video)
15) Woodstock, IL — Hotel-Motel Tax for Rentals
Short-term rentals in Woodstock may soon be subject to the city's hotel-motel tax. Local leaders are considering the move to generate new revenue for tourism and ensure that all lodging providers contribute fairly to the city's promotional efforts. Link: – Shaw Local
16) Allendale, MI — ADU Rental Policy Considered
Allendale is considering a new policy that would allow short-term rentals to operate in accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The strategy aims to increase housing flexibility for property owners while maintaining local oversight of rental activities. Link: – MLive
17) Kissimmee, FL — Shooting at Airbnb Property
A fatal shooting involving a 17-year-old at a Kissimmee Airbnb has sparked renewed calls for stricter guest vetting and security protocols. The incident has brought national attention to safety concerns surrounding unmanaged short-term rental parties. Link: – WFTV
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