News You Can Use – January 12, 2026 – TOP STORY: Monterey County votes to ban short-term rentals

This week leads with a move by Monterey County to now BAN all STRs in unincorporated areas!

1) TOP STORY: Monterey County, CA — Short-Term Rental Ban Approved

The Board of Supervisors voted to ban short-term rentals in specific unincorporated coastal areas to protect housing availability for residents. The decision reflects a growing trend of strict prohibitions in California markets where housing supply is critically tight. Links: – Monterey County Now

2) Michigan — Vrbo Files Lawsuit

Vrbo has filed a lawsuit against the state of Michigan following a Department of Treasury audit that assessed the platform for $187 million in unpaid taxes and penalties. The dispute centers on whether the platform is liable for collecting and remitting use taxes on vacation rental transactions dating back several years. Links: – Crain's Detroit Business

3) British Columbia, Canada — Court Upholds Dismissal

The B.C. Court of Appeal has upheld a lower court's decision to dismiss a petition challenging provincial short-term rental restrictions. The ruling affirms the government's authority to regulate the industry, dealing a legal blow to property owners seeking to overturn the rules. Links: – CHEK News

4) Tybee Island, GA — Rules Challenged

The city's short-term vacation rental (STVR) ordinance is facing a major legal challenge in court, with property owners contesting the validity of the regulations. The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how coastal communities in Georgia manage rental density and enforcement. Links: – WSAV

5) Arizona — Some Cities are Asking the State to Give Them More Authority to Restrict STR

A state senator is drafting legislation that would impose a cap on the number of short-term rental permits available in municipalities. The proposal aims to balance the tourism economy with the need to preserve long-term housing stock for residents. Links: – Wickenburg Sun

6) Ocean City, MD — Vote Delayed on new STR Regulations

Frustration is growing among residents and stakeholders as the City Council refused to hold a vote on new short-term rental regulations, opting instead to review further options. Officials are debating the best approach to enforcement and zoning before committing to a legislative path. Links: – CoastTV – MSN

7) Atlanta, GA — STR Owners in Atlanta Looking to Cash In on World Cup

Short-term rental owners are positioning themselves to capitalize on the 2026 World Cup, but face uncertainty regarding potential regulatory changes. City officials are weighing whether to adjust permitting rules to accommodate the expected influx of global soccer fans. Links: – WSB-TV

8) Nantucket — Corporate Ownership of STRs Restricted

Local reporting has analyzed the number of corporate entities that have been denied short-term rental licenses under the island's strict ownership transparency rules. The data highlights the town's ongoing effort to limit commercial investment activity in the rental market. Links: – Nantucket Current

9) St. Louis, MO — New Bill Introduced to Update STRs Regs

A new Board Bill has been introduced to update regulations concerning short-term rentals, focusing on permitting and operational standards. The legislation moves to the next stage of the committee process for review and public comment. Links: – St. Louis City Government

10) Houston, TX & Hamblen County, TN — Violence Reported at STRs

Recent shootings at short-term rental properties in Houston and Tennessee involving teenagers have renewed concerns over party house enforcement. These incidents are prompting calls from neighbors and law enforcement for stricter vetting and onsite management requirements. Links: – ABC13 Houston – WATE

11) Scarborough, ME — Council Calls STR Regs a Top Priority for New Year

As part of its 2026 outlook, the Town Council has identified short-term rental regulation as a key agenda item for the coming year. Officials plan to revisit ordinances to ensure they align with community goals and housing needs. Links: – Portland Press Herald

12) Penn Forest, PA — Resident Concerns and Noise Complaints from STRs

The Township Supervisors heard complaints from residents regarding noise and disturbances associated with local short-term rentals. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension in rural communities between residential peace and tourism revenue. Links: – Times News

Questions or concerns about how these stories might impact Newport Beach STRs? Feel free to reach out — we’re here to help.

Check back everyday for News You Can Use.