News You Can Use – February 11, 2026 – TOP STORY: Idaho moves to curb local control
Today’s update highlights communities across California and the nation updating regulations, and the State of Idaho looking at possibly establishing a statewide standard for STRs and pre-empting a local patch work of regulations..
1) TOP STORY: Idaho — Lawmakers Move to Restrict Municipal Oversight
The Idaho legislature is advancing a bill that would significantly limit the ability of local governments to regulate or ban short-term rentals. The proposed legislation seeks to protect property rights and create a more uniform statewide environment for hosts, though local officials argue it strips away their ability to manage neighborhood-specific impacts. Links: – Local News 8 – Idaho Statesman – Idaho Press
2) Ocean City, MD — Action Halted on 10% Cap and Signs
The City Council has paused action on a controversial proposal that would have placed a 10% cap on short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods. Additionally, a separate proposal to require identification signs on rental properties has stalled after residents raised significant safety and privacy concerns. Links: – CoastTV (Action Halted) – CoastTV (10% Cap Details) – WBOC (Sign Proposal)
3) Grand Rapids, MI — Mayor Calls for Overhaul
Mayor LaGrand has announced a plan to overhaul the city’s short-term rental regulations, noting that hundreds of units are currently operating illegally. The proposed update aims to improve enforcement and ensure that the rental market does not negatively impact housing availability for residents. Links: – Crain's Grand Rapids Business
4) Riverside County, CA — Moratorium May Be Lifted
The Board of Supervisors is set to weigh revisions to the county’s short-term rental ordinance that could lead to the lifting of the current moratorium. The proposed changes focus on enhancing operational standards and safety requirements to allow for a resumption of permitting in unincorporated areas. Links: – MyNewsLA – NBC Palm Springs – Patch
5) Charleston County, SC — Closing the "Loophole"
County officials are working to close a regulatory loophole that has allowed some property owners to operate short-term rentals in unauthorized zones. The move is part of a broader effort to tighten land-use controls and preserve residential neighborhood integrity. Links: – Live 5 News
6) North Charleston, SC — Permit Deadline Approaching
Short-term rental owners in North Charleston are facing a fast-approaching deadline to secure necessary permits under the city’s new regulatory framework. Failure to meet the deadline could result in significant fines and the suspension of rental operations. Links: – Live 5 News (Video)
7) Northeast Ohio — Regional "Reckoning" Over STRs
A major investigative report highlights a growing "reckoning" across Northeast Ohio as communities from Bath Township to Lakewood grapple with zoning and police issues tied to short-term rentals. In Sandusky, officials are exploring an "overlay district" to balance the needs of the tourism industry with local housing demand. Links: – WKYC – WTOL
8) Omaha, NE — Neighbors Push for Rules After Death
Residents in an Omaha neighborhood are urging the City Council to adopt stricter short-term rental regulations following a recent overdose death at a local rental property. The incident has fueled community concerns regarding guest vetting and the lack of onsite management. Links: – WOWT
9) Montgomery, AL — Final Draft Near for New Rules
The City Council is nearing the final draft of a comprehensive short-term rental ordinance and is seeking final public feedback. The proposed rules include registration requirements and safety standards to formalize the industry within the city. Links: – WAKA
10) Placer County, CA — Supervisors Review Solutions
Placer County supervisors are reviewing potential solutions to ongoing short-term rental issues, particularly in the North Lake Tahoe area. Discussion points include adjusting permit caps and enhancing enforcement to address the specific needs of resort communities. Links: – Sierra Sun
11) Evanston, IL — Overhaul Returns for Vote
The proposed overhaul of Evanston’s short-term rental ordinance is returning to the City Council for a definitive vote. While officials aim for a comprehensive update, some property owners remain wary of the potential impact on their ability to operate. Links: – Evanston RoundTable – Daily Northwestern
12) Oswego County, NY — Registry Launched
Oswego County has officially launched a new short-term rental registry to better track properties and ensure compliance with local tax laws. The platform is designed to provide officials with a clearer picture of the rental market across the county. Links: – Oswego County Today
13) Chikaming Township, MI — Ordinance Work Continues
Following the release of a recent study, Chikaming Township officials are actively working on a new short-term rental ordinance. The goal is to establish a clear regulatory path that balances the township’s seasonal tourism with year-round resident needs. Links: – Moody on the Market
14) Pearland, TX — Code Definition Changes
The City of Pearland is set to consider changing how short-term rentals are defined within the city’s development code. The update is intended to clarify zoning requirements and streamline the permitting process for compliant operators. Links: – Community Impact
15) Toledo, OH — Fatal Shooting Sparks Calls for Local Control
As part of a statewide investigative series, Toledo officials and residents are sounding the alarm over unregulated "party houses" following a fatal shooting at a local short-term rental. State Representative Michele Grim (D-Toledo) and other local leaders are using the incident to push back against proposed state legislation (SB 104) that would limit a city’s ability to enforce its own bans or occupancy caps. Links: – WTOL 11 – WKYC
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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