News You Can Use – January 15, 2026 – TOP STORY: Arizona Governor proposes nightly fee on short-term rentals

Today’s update continues to highlight attacks on STRs all across the nation.

1) TOP STORY: Arizona — Governor Proposes STR Fee

Governor Katie Hobbs has proposed a new $3.50 nightly fee on short-term rentals as part of her executive budget. The revenue generated from this fee would be directed toward a trust fund aimed at addressing housing affordability and homelessness across the state. Links: – Fox 10 Phoenix (Article) – Fox 10 Phoenix (Video)

2) Ohio — Preemption Bill Debated

A state senator is pushing legislation that would prevent local municipalities from banning short-term rentals, effectively "opening the floodgates" for the industry. While some cities are moving to rein in Airbnbs, this proposal seeks to protect property rights and standardise regulations statewide. Links: – Signal Ohio

3) Park Township, MI — Federal Lawsuit Filed

Short-term rental owners have escalated their legal battle with Park Township by filing a lawsuit in federal court. The plaintiffs argue that the township's ban on vacation rentals is unconstitutional and violates their property rights. Links: – Crain's Grand Rapids

4) Ocean City, MD — Cap Moves to Work Session

The City Council voted to send a proposed cap on short-term rental licenses to a future work session for further refinement rather than taking an immediate vote. The proposal, which would limit licenses in specific residential districts, has drawn intense debate regarding its impact on property values and tourism. Links: – Baltimore Sun – CoastTV

5) Stowe, VT — Cap and Carveouts Debated

As the town considers a cap on short-term rentals to combat the dominance of out-of-state owners, local resorts are lobbying for specific carveouts. Stakeholders are debating how to balance the need for housing availability with the economic reality of the town's tourism-dependent sectors. Links: – Vermont Daily Chronicle – Stowe Reporter

6) Evanston, IL — Ordinance Advances

A proposal to limit vacation rentals moved forward in the City Council, with amendments aimed at refining enforcement and zoning. Aldermen are pushing for stricter controls to preserve neighborhood character while allowing for compliant operations. Links: – Evanston Now – Evanston RoundTable

7) Pittsburgh, PA — Regulation Calls Renewed

Following a recent shooting incident, neighbors and city officials are renewing calls for stricter regulation and enforcement of short-term rentals. The community is demanding better vetting processes and nuisance controls to ensure safety in residential areas. Links: – WESA

8) Whittier, CA — New Rules Forwarded

The City Council has moved forward with a new regulatory framework for short-term rentals that includes permitting requirements and operational standards. The ordinance is designed to bring unpermitted units into compliance and mitigate neighborhood impacts. Links: – Pasadena Star-News

9) Maine — Unorganized Territories Rule

New property rules have been introduced for Maine's unorganized territories in Aroostook County, addressing land use and potential rental activities. The changes aim to update zoning standards in these sparsely populated regions. Links: – Bangor Daily News

10) Solvang, CA — Rules Tightened

In response to resident concerns, the city is moving to tighten its short-term rental regulations. The updates focus on stricter enforcement mechanisms and ensuring that rentals do not negatively alter the character of the historic Danish-style village. Links: – KSBY

11) Kane County, IL — Regulations Discussed

County officials are reviewing potential new rules for short-term rentals to address the growing market in unincorporated areas. The discussion centers on establishing a registration system and safety standards for operators. Links: – Fox 32 Chicago

12) Penn Forest, PA — Resident Concerns

Township supervisors heard continued complaints from residents regarding noise and traffic associated with short-term rentals. The local government is weighing these concerns against the rights of property owners as they evaluate enforcement options. Links: – Times News

13) Lanesborough, MA — Farm Appeal

A local farm is appealing a prohibition on short-term rentals, arguing that their operation supports agricultural tourism and should be permitted. The case highlights the intersection of agricultural zoning and modern hospitality uses. Links: – iBerkshires

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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