News You Can Use – July 9, 2025 – TOP STORY: Nantucket STR rules under fire after June vote

Today’s headlines show how short-term rental regulation continues to evolve across the U.S. and abroad — from Cape Cod showdowns to rural tax enforcement to the ongoing fallout in Columbus.

Nantucket STR Rules Stir Lawsuits, Confusion After June Vote

Nantucket voters passed a sweeping new STR ordinance in June, but backlash has been swift — including two lawsuits, homeowner confusion, and warnings from rental platform advocates. Key issues include limits on short-term rentals in residential areas, increased enforcement, and a perceived lack of clarity about what’s allowed. The issue is drawing regional and national attention.

Source:
🔗 CommonWealth Beacon – A stormy season for STRs on Nantucket

Key takeaway: This is a case study in how fast local STR policy can shift — and why unclear or reactionary regulations often lead to litigation and backlash.

Columbus STR Hosts React to Violence Fallout

Following last week’s mass shooting at a party in an unlicensed short-term rental, responsible STR hosts in Columbus are speaking out. Several emphasize that they screen guests, comply with laws, and shouldn't be punished for the actions of illegal operators. Meanwhile, city leaders continue pushing for new STR restrictions.

Source:
🔗 Columbus Dispatch – Hosts defend STRs after mass shooting

Key takeaway: The STR narrative in Columbus remains tense — and proactive engagement by hosts will be critical in shaping the outcome.

Panguitch, Utah Adopts STR Ordinance After Public Input

The city of Panguitch (near Bryce Canyon National Park) has adopted a new STR ordinance after months of community meetings and stakeholder input. The rules establish licensing requirements, property standards, and compliance expectations.

Source:
🔗 Insider Utah – Panguitch STR ordinance takes effect

Key takeaway: In smaller rural or tourism-heavy cities, thoughtful STR regulation is possible — especially when owners are engaged early in the process.

Nelson County, VA Changes STR Tax Tracking Rules

Nelson County will shift STR tax collection and tracking to the Planning and Zoning Department, aiming to increase compliance and streamline oversight. Business license requirements and enforcement will be more closely tied to local permits.

Source:
🔗 WSET – Nelson County changes tracking process

Key takeaway: Watch for more counties to tighten their back-end systems — particularly where underreporting of TOT or business licenses is suspected.

UK Ruling: STR Condition ‘Inadequate’ to Protect Neighbors

A UK planning inspector ruled that a condition allowing an STR to operate — so long as it was “managed responsibly” — was too vague to protect nearby residents. The inspector said clearer definitions and stronger terms were needed.

Source:
🔗 PlanningResource – UK STR case

Key takeaway: International decisions like this reinforce the need for specific, enforceable standards — not just vague promises about “good management.”

Oglesby, IL Expands STR Zones

The city of Oglesby, Illinois (in the Starved Rock region) has approved an ordinance to expand zones where STRs are allowed, giving a boost to local tourism businesses. The move followed sustained advocacy by local operators.

Source:
🔗 Shaw Local – Oglesby expands STRs

Key takeaway: Not all trends are negative — supportive jurisdictions are still increasing STR opportunities when data and business case align.

Questions 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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