News You Can Use – July 10, 2025 – TOP STORY: Wisconsin court overturns STR primary-residence rule

Today’s STR headlines include a major legal victory for property owners in Wisconsin, a string of new local enforcement efforts, a looming voter showdown in Ocean City, and another lawsuit tied to party house incidents.

Wisconsin Appeals Court Strikes Down STR Residency Rule

In a decision with statewide implications, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals ruled that the City of Neenah cannot require short-term rentals to be the owner’s primary residence. The court found the restriction violated state law protecting the use of property for rental purposes. The Wisconsin REALTORS® Association and other property rights groups supported the challenge.

Sources:
🔗 Fox 11 coverage
🔗 Wisconsin Law Journal summary
🔗 Buffalo News PDF
🔗 Courthouse News recap

Key takeaway: This is a major win for STR advocates — and could influence similar legal challenges in other states.

Ocean City Voters to Decide STR Ban July 22

A reminder that Ocean City, Maryland will hold a special election on July 22 to decide whether to uphold or repeal a short-term rental ban in several residential areas. The issue has galvanized both sides and is drawing significant media attention.

Source:
🔗 WMDT – Ocean City STR ban heads to referendum

Key takeaway: This ballot fight could have ripple effects up and down the East Coast — expect more organized campaigning as the vote nears.

Hermosa Beach Judge Halts STR Ban Enforcement

A judge has temporarily blocked the City of Hermosa Beach from enforcing its short-term rental ban, following legal action by STR owners. The ruling cites due process concerns and could lead to permanent changes.

Source:
🔗 Easy Reader News – Enforcement halted

Key takeaway: Courts continue to play a key role in reining in overreaching STR policies, particularly where enforcement outpaces process.

Selbyville, DE Votes to Ban STRs in Town Limits

Selbyville’s Town Council voted to prohibit all short-term rentals, citing concerns over neighborhood character and enforcement limitations. This follows months of resident complaints and growing regulatory momentum in the region.

Source:
🔗 Coastal Point – Selbyville ban passes

Key takeaway: Delaware is becoming an STR battleground — and this small-town ban may prompt copycat efforts elsewhere.

Tennessee Party House Lawsuit Moves Forward

In Collierville (outside Memphis), the family of a woman killed in a 2023 STR party house shooting is suing the property owner and Airbnb, claiming negligence. The case is attracting media attention and could set legal precedent.

Source:
🔗 Commercial Appeal – Party house lawsuit

Key takeaway: Lawsuits stemming from party house incidents are becoming more common — and raising the stakes for hosts, platforms, and cities alike.

Snowmass Looks at STR Caps and Zoning Limits

Town officials in Snowmass Village, Colorado are exploring caps on STR licenses and new zoning rules, citing community concerns about housing availability and neighborhood impacts.

Source:
🔗 Aspen Times – Snowmass STR policy under review

Key takeaway: Even in long-time resort towns, STR pressure is forcing local governments to reassess their limits.

Glens Falls, NY Ramps Up Registration Reminders

Officials in Glens Falls are reminding property owners to register all STRs with the city. The move is part of a growing effort to bring listings into compliance and improve enforcement capabilities.

Source:
🔗 News10 video

Key takeaway: More cities are tightening registration protocols as a first step before bigger regulatory action.

STRs Still Booming in Saratoga Springs, NY

Despite policy discussions and calls for regulation, short-term rentals remain strong and growing in Saratoga Springs, with summer bookings again nearing pre-pandemic highs.

Sources:
🔗 WNYT – STR growth in Saratoga
🔗 Post-Star – Local STR update

Key takeaway: Not every community is clamping down — in some cities, demand and economic impact still outweigh opposition.

Jamestown, RI to Tweak STR Rules in 2026

While no immediate changes are planned, Jamestown town officials have announced that STR rules will be revised in 2026. Early discussions center on zoning and occupancy.

Source:
🔗 Jamestown Press

Key takeaway: Longer timelines offer STR owners more time to prepare — and to advocate for balanced rules.

Newport News, VA to Begin Enforcement Aug. 1

Starting August 1, the City of Newport News will begin strict enforcement of its STR law. Properties without proper registration will face fines.

Source:
🔗 WAVY – Newport News enforcement plan

Beverly Hills Press Calls for STR Ban in Multi-Unit Buildings

An editorial in the Beverly Press argues that multi-unit buildings should be off-limits to short-term rentals, citing noise and tenant turnover.

Source:
🔗 Beverly Press – Editorial

Lake Chelan Condo Operators Lose $58K STR Case

In Washington state, a group of Lake Chelan condo owners must pay $58,800 in fines after operating STRs in violation of HOA rules and city ordinance.

Source:
🔗 NCW Life – Court rules against Chelan condo owners

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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