News You Can Use – September 16, 2025 – TOP STORY: California cities urge Governor to sign STR enforcement bill
We’re back after a few days with a lot of updates since the middle of last week…here’s your “News You Can Use!”
1) TOP STORY: California city officials push for stronger statewide STR enforcement
The League of California Cities is urging the Governor to sign short-term rental reform legislation that would make it easier for cities to enforce local STR laws, crack down on illegal units, and ensure proper TOT collection.
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2) Austin, TX: Council approves new STR rules
Austin’s City Council adopted additional regulations that tighten licensing and add platform responsibilities, setting up stronger enforcement across the market.
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3) New Orleans, LA: Airbnb to appeal federal court ruling
After a judge dismissed Airbnb’s lawsuit over New Orleans’ STR rules, the platform says it will appeal, keeping the high-profile case alive as other cities watch closely.
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4) Colorado: New statewide STR group forms amid market pressures
A new organization is forming to represent Colorado’s STR industry as operators cite rising taxes, shifting tourism patterns, and evolving regulations.
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5) Pittsfield, MA: City adopts STR ordinance and registry
Pittsfield approved an STR ordinance that includes new regulations and a registration requirement aimed at improving oversight.
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6) St. Charles, IL: City weighs new STR rules and taxes
Officials are considering a package of regulations and possible taxes on STRs as they review community impacts.
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7) Northeast Ohio: Berea joins push for tighter STR oversight
Berea adds its name to the growing list of communities seeking stronger STR regulation, reflecting a wider Northeast Ohio trend.
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8) Galveston, TX: City seeks public input on STR rules
Galveston is inviting residents to weigh in on STR regulation options as officials shape the next phase of policy.
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9) Columbus, OH: Council considers stronger oversight
A proposal before City Council would increase oversight of STR properties, signaling tighter enforcement ahead.
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10) Lake Tahoe (El Dorado County), CA: VHR setback rule dropped
Supervisors removed a buffer requirement from the vacation home rental ordinance while also awarding local cannabis grants.
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11) Las Vegas, NV: Licensing backlog and illegal rentals persist
Clark County reports a backlog of more than 600 STR applications as hundreds of properties continue operating without approval.
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12) Michigan: Local moves on STRs
Ionia officials recommend regulating STRs, while Cadillac gave a green light for an STR in a general business district.
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Quick Hits
Hermosa Beach, CA: City extends STR program in commercial districts.
Link: Easy Reader NewsNewport News, VA: Officials detail STR violations and enforcement issues.
Link: The Virginian-PilotReading, PA: Council considers stricter STR rules.
Link: WFMZ 69 NewsMontgomery, AL: City begins drafting rules covering Airbnb and PadSplit-style rentals.
Link: Alabama News NetworkFayette, MO: Council weighs STRs in the downtown area.
Link: Fayette AdvertiserHudson, WI: STR owner reacts to new ordinance and its impacts.
Link: Hudson Star-ObserverBozeman, MT: Commission takes aim at local STR rules — a developing policy discussion to watch.
Link: Knoff Group Real EstateQuestions or concerns about how these stories might impact Newport Beach STRs? Feel free to reach out — we’re here to help.
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