News You Can Use – January 26, 2026 – TOP STORY: San Diego proposes major vacancy tax on rentals

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

1) TOP STORY: San Diego, CA — Vacation Home Tax Proposed

A City Councilmember has proposed a "vacancy tax" that could charge owners of short-term rentals and second homes up to $12,000 annually. The measure aims to encourage owners to place units on the long-term market and generate revenue for affordable housing, though opponents argue it punishes property owners. Links: – 10 News San Diego – San Diego Union-Tribune – NBC 7 San Diego

2) Washington State — Statewide Tax Discussed

Legislators are renewing discussions on a proposed statewide tax on short-term rentals to fund affordable housing initiatives. The bill would allow counties to impose an excise tax on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, a move that hospitality groups warn could dampen tourism. Links: – NCW Business – Daily Fly – KPQ

3) Ocean City, MD — Property Owners Fight Back Against Moratorium

A local property rights group has submitted a petition seeking to overturn the city's recent moratorium on new short-term rental licenses. If the signatures are verified, the measure could force a public referendum on the policy. Links: – OC Today Dispatch – CoastTV

4) Dearborn, MI — Lawsuit Filed by Property Owners to Overturn STR Ban

Property owners have filed a lawsuit against the city, alleging that new zoning amendments effectively ban short-term rentals in violation of their rights. The plaintiffs are seeking to invalidate the restrictions, arguing they cause undue financial hardship. Links: – CBS Detroit

5) Roeland Park, KS — Rules Loosened Ahead of World Cup

The City Council has voted to loosen regulations on short-term rentals to accommodate expected demand from the 2026 World Cup. The changes are designed to allow more residents to rent out their homes during the major international event. Links: – KCTV 5 – Axios

6) Las Vegas, NV — Noise Complaints Draw Calls for Regulation

Residents in historic neighborhoods are demanding stricter enforcement against "party houses," citing chronic noise and disturbances. City officials are reviewing complaint data to determine if current penalties are sufficient to deter violations. Links: – Fox 5 Vegas

7) Summit County, UT — County Launches New STR Enforcement Software

The county has implemented new software to better track short-term rental inventory and identify properties operating without a license. Officials hope the technology will streamline code enforcement and improve compliance rates. Links: – Park Record

8) Pacifica, CA — Rules Updated for STRs in Bay Area Coastal Town

The City Council has adopted new regulations for short-term rentals, establishing clearer operational standards and permitting requirements. The ordinance aims to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the preservation of neighborhood character. Links: – San Francisco Chronicle

9) Haines City, FL — Registry Created to

City commissioners have approved the creation of a rental registry to identify and regulate short-term rental properties. The move is intended to crack down on illegal operators and ensure all units meet safety and tax standards. Links: – News Chief

10) Pittsburgh, PA — Regulation Calls After Shooting

Following a recent shooting incident, community members in East Allegheny are pushing for tighter regulations on short-term rentals. Advocates are calling for better vetting of guests and stricter accountability for property owners. Links: – PublicSource

11) Carson City, NV — Public Input on Possible STR Changes

The city is hosting workshops to gather public input on potential changes to short-term rental regulations. Planners are seeking community feedback on issues such as parking, noise, and density limits. Links: – KOLO 8

12) Faribault, MN — Discussion Continues on New STR Ordinance

City leaders are continuing to debate the framework for a new short-term rental ordinance. Discussions are focused on how to properly zone these properties and what fees should be assessed to cover administrative costs. Links: – Southern Minn

13) Arizona — Opinion: Neighborhood Impact of STRs

An opinion piece argues that the proliferation of short-term rentals is eroding the social fabric of residential neighborhoods. The author calls for legislative action to return local control to municipalities to protect housing stock. Links: – Arizona Capitol Times

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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