News You Can Use – February 2, 2026 – TOP STORY: BIG WIN as San Diego rental tax plan dies in committee
Today’s update continues to highlight attacks on STRs all across the nation, but also good news on a BIG WIN as the San Diego $12,000 STR/Vacancy Tax plan was defeated thanks to great work from SDSTRA and the platforms, especially AirBNB.
1) TOP STORY: San Diego, CA — STR/Vacancy Tax Plan Defeated! s
The controversial proposal to place a "vacancy tax" on short-term rentals and second homes on the ballot has died in committee. City officials cited concerns over the legal framework and potential economic impact, marking a significant reprieve for property owners who faced potential annual fees of up to $12,000. Links: – NBC San Diego
2) Saratoga, CA — Short-Term Rentals Now Illegal
Following months of heated debate, the City Council has officially implemented a ban on short-term rentals in residential zones. Effective immediately, operating an Airbnb or Vrbo-style rental within city limits is illegal, as officials move to prioritize neighborhood character and housing for long-term residents. Links: – East Bay Times – SiliconValley.com
3) Colorado — Analysis of Vacant Home Tax
New analysis of the proposed statewide tax on vacant homes highlights the potential impact on mountain resort communities. While intended to fund affordable housing, industry experts warn the measure could lead to a decline in property values and tourism revenue if owners choose to sell rather than pay the new levies. Links: – Moving Mountains Blog – Complete Colorado
4) Washington State — Debate Rages Over Statewide Tax
Legislative hearings on a proposed 7% excise tax on short-term rentals have drawn intense testimony from both sides. Supporters, including officials from Leavenworth, argue the revenue is critical for affordable housing, while operators claim the tax is discriminatory and would hurt the state's competitiveness as a travel destination. Links: – Seattle Times – The Chronicle – NCW News
5) Decatur, AL — Cap and Fines Proposed
The City Council is set to vote on a new ordinance that would cap the number of short-term rental properties at 135 citywide. The proposal also includes strict safety standards and a tiered fine system for unpermitted units or nuisance violations. Links: – Rocket City Now – Decatur Daily – WAAY 31
6) Brea, CA — Olympics Preparation Begins
In a strategic shift, city leaders have rolled out a pilot program for short-term rentals ahead of the 2028 Olympics. The program will allow a limited number of permitted units to operate under strict city oversight, testing the community’s ability to handle the expected influx of global visitors. Links: – Voice of OC
7) Manhattan Beach, CA — World Cup Ban Stays
Despite the upcoming 2026 World Cup, city officials have confirmed they will not ease the current ban on short-term rentals. Leaders rejected calls for a temporary reprieve, stating that maintaining neighborhood stability outweighs the potential economic windfall from the tournament. Links: – Patch
8) Morro Bay, CA — Violation Fees to Increase
The city is moving to significantly increase fines for short-term rental violations to improve compliance. Under the new proposal, repeat offenders could face much steeper penalties for operating without a license or exceeding occupancy limits. Links: – KSBY
9) Skokie, IL — New Regulations Prepared
Village trustees are preparing to debut Skokie’s first formal regulatory framework for short-term rentals. The proposed rules include a registration requirement, safety inspections, and limits on the number of units that can be operated by a single owner. Links: – The Record North Shore
10) Plover, WI — Ordinance Updated for Compliance
The Village Board has updated its short-term rental ordinance to bring it into alignment with recent state laws and court rulings. The revisions clarify the village's enforcement powers while ensuring the rights of property owners are protected according to state standards. Links: – Stevens Point Metro Wire
11) Evanston, IL — Reopening Postponed
The City Council has decided it is "not quite ready" to lift current restrictions on short-term rentals. Officials have opted to keep existing caps in place while they gather more data on how rentals impact the local housing market and neighborhood tranquility. Links: – Evanston RoundTable
12) Maryville, MO — Enforcement Crackdown
City leaders are looking to tighten enforcement of existing short-term rental regulations following reports of several unpermitted units. Officials plan to conduct a thorough audit of active listings to ensure all properties are licensed and paying appropriate local taxes. Links: – Maryville Forum
13) North Salem, NY — New Law Passed
The Town Board has adopted a new short-term rental law that requires all hosts to obtain an annual permit and undergo safety inspections. The measure also limits rentals to owner-occupied properties, aiming to prevent commercial operators from entering the market. Links: – Halston Media
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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