DUBLIN -- Dublin city council has tabled an ordinance that would restrict short-term rentals in the city.
A short-term rental is defined as any stay under 30 days.
At Monday's city council meeting, the public was invited to offer input on the proposal, which includes the following regulations:
- All hosts must complete an application prior to listing a Dublin residence for a short-term rental and must obtain a permit annually.
- Hosts may rent out a unit for a maximum of 14 days per calendar year.
- Hosts must submit a form to the city before each renting period detailing the duration of the rental and the number of people staying.
- Those who conduct short-term rentals and fail to register with the city could face a $250 fine for violating city code.
"We thought this was a good balance between allowing a person to use their home for financial gain, while still preserving the character of Dublin's neighborhoods," said Law Director Jennifer Readler.
During public comment, several people spoke against the ordinance including Airbnb hosts.
"We all just love doing it," one woman said. "We love having people come to our homes. I've had people from Saudi Arabia - all over!"
"One noise complaint does not justify restricting property rights," another said.
However, there were several others in favor of it, saying they live next to an Airbnb that is causing issues.
"One guy parked on my lawn," one person said. "I said, 'You can't park on my lawn!'"
"When you live next to it, it greatly disrupts your life," another said.
Unintended consequences of the ordinance were also mentioned. For instance, how the ordinance could affect local bed and breakfasts and temporary corporate housing.
"I don't think this regulation is designed to mess with people like us - mess with businesses like us," said one man who works in the corporate housing industry.
Council ultimately decided to delay a vote and further discuss the issue, sending it back to committee. There is no word yet when the issue will go before council.