News You Can Use – February 9, 2026 – TOP STORY: Ocean City, MD residents mobilize against rental cap

Today’s update highlights the seemingly never-ending battle over STRs in Ocean City, Maryland, where the property owners are having to fight again and again against the City Council who keeps trying to ban them.

News You Can Use – February 9, 2026 – TOP STORY: Ocean City, MD residents mobilize against rental cap

1) TOP STORY: Ocean City, MD — Property Owners Fight Rental Cap

A significant battle is brewing in Ocean City as property owners and real estate groups mobilize against a proposed cap on short-term rental licenses. The debate has intensified as stakeholders argue the restrictions could negatively impact property values and the local tourism-driven economy. Links: – Baltimore Sun

2) Idaho — Deregulation Bill Heads to Committee

A new bill that would significantly deregulate short-term rentals statewide has been introduced and is heading to committee for review. The proposed legislation aims to limit the ability of local municipalities to impose strict bans or overly burdensome restrictions on property owners. Links: – Bonner County Daily Bee

3) Arizona — Groups Oppose New Nightly Fees

Short-term housing advocacy groups in Arizona are finding rare common ground in their opposition to Governor Hobbs’ proposed $3.50 nightly fee. While the organizations often differ on broader policy, both are united against what they describe as a "hidden tax" that unfairly targets the industry and could harm local competitiveness. Links: – State Affairs – KJZZ

4) Missouri — New Costs Proposed for Operators

A proposed ordinance in Missouri could introduce new administrative costs and fees for short-term rental operators. The measure is being considered as local officials look for ways to cover the increasing costs of oversight and enforcement in residential areas. Links: – Fox 2 Now

5) Kentucky — Statewide Bill Could Impact Rentals

A new bill introduced in the Kentucky legislature could have a sweeping impact on how short-term rentals are regulated across the state. The legislation seeks to create a more uniform framework for registration and taxation, though local officials are concerned about the potential loss of municipal control. Links: – Spectrum News 1

6) Salem, OH — Ordinance Under Consideration

The city of Salem is currently considering the implementation of its first formal short-term rental ordinance. Officials are reviewing draft language that would require registration and establish basic safety and nuisance standards for hosts. Links: – Salem News

7) Kansas City, MO — World Cup Permit Proposed

City officials are considering a new "special events permit" that could allow hundreds more short-term rentals to operate during the 2026 World Cup. The measure is designed to accommodate the massive influx of international soccer fans while ensuring properties meet temporary safety and registration standards. Links: – KCUR

8) Skokie, IL — Strict New Rules Finalized

Skokie trustees have locked in a formal regulatory framework for the village’s short-term rentals, affecting nearly 90% of existing units currently operating without oversight. The new law mandates licensing, safety inspections, and clear operational standards for all hosts. Links: – The Record North Shore – Patch

9) Albuquerque, NM — Restriction Plan Rejected

In a win for local operators, the City Council has rejected a plan that would have imposed significant new restrictions on short-term housing. Opponents of the plan successfully argued that the proposed rules were overly burdensome and failed to address the root causes of the local housing shortage. Links: – KRQE

10) El Paso, TX — Definitions and Regulations Set

The El Paso City Council has moved to officially define and regulate short-term rentals within the city code. The new rules establish a registration process and aim to provide the city with better data on where rentals are operating and how they impact residential zones. Links: – KTSM – KFOX 14

11) Decatur, AL — Ordinance Approved

The City Council has officially approved a new short-term rental ordinance that includes clear safety standards and neighborhood protections. The measure limits the number of available permits and introduces fines for operators who fail to comply with local codes. Links: – City of Decatur

12) Bandon, OR — 120-Day Pause Implemented

The City of Bandon has declared a 120-day moratorium on all new vacation rental applications. The pause is intended to allow city staff time to review existing density limits and determine if current regulations are sufficient to handle recent growth. Links: – IJPR

13) Kingston, NY — Occupancy Tax Proposed

The Mayor of Kingston has proposed a new occupancy tax specifically targeting short-term rentals. The revenue from the tax would be used to support municipal services and potentially fund local housing initiatives. Links: – Hudson Valley One

14) Atlanta, GA — Neighbors Blame Rentals After Shooting

Following a violent incident where a gunman fired 15 shots into a home during a party, Atlanta neighbors are calling for more aggressive enforcement of short-term rental laws. Residents claim the rise in unmanaged rentals is directly contributing to increased crime and noise in their communities. Links: – WSB-TV

15) Rockdale County, GA — New Rules Adopted

The Rockdale County Board of Commissioners has adopted new rules governing short-term rentals to address growing community concerns. The regulations include a mandatory registration system and strict noise and parking requirements. Links: – Rockdale Newton Citizen

16) Chikaming Township, MI — Impact Study Released

The township has released a comprehensive study on short-term rentals, providing data on their economic impact and prevalence in the community. The findings will serve as the basis for upcoming discussions on potential ordinance updates. Links: – WSJM

17) Atascadero, CA — Public Feedback Sought

City officials held a public workshop to gather community input on the future of short-term rental regulation. Residents shared varying views on the economic benefits of vacation rentals versus the need to preserve residential peace. Links: – KSBY

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.