LA County: New rules on Airbnb & others in unincorporated areas.

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In a move aimed at regulating the burgeoning short-term rental market, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has given its final nod to new regulations governing such rentals in unincorporated areas. This decision comes amidst concerns over the impact of short-term rentals on housing availability, neighborhood quality of life, and the need for appropriate oversight.

Under the freshly approved rules, hosts operating through platforms like Airbnb or Vacation Rentals By Owner (VRBO) will be required to register their properties annually and pay a fee of $914. This fee structure, based on comprehensive cost recovery considerations, encompasses administrative expenses, enforcement efforts, salaries, and indirect costs. The registration program's primary objectives are to strike a balance between facilitating homeowners' ability to list their properties for short-term rentals and safeguarding long-term housing stock, alongside preserving the tranquility of residential neighborhoods.

One of the key provisions of the regulations is the restriction on short-term rentals to hosts' primary residences. This means that accessory dwelling units, rent-restricted primary residences, and vacation homes cannot be utilized for short-term rental purposes. Additionally, limitations are imposed on the number of guests, duration of stays, and the nature of events permitted at short-term rental properties. Companies such as Airbnb and VRBO are mandated to comply with these regulations and establish mechanisms for enforcement and customer appeals in cases of non-compliance.

Financial provisions have been made to support the implementation of the registration program. The 2023-24 budget allocates $1 million for initial costs, with an additional $1.7 million set aside for the following year. However, the expectation is that ongoing expenses will be covered by the registration fees collected from hosts.

Importantly, these regulations will solely affect unincorporated areas within the county and will not conflict with existing rules established by individual cities. Furthermore, enforcement will not be immediately applied in certain coastal regions like Marina del Rey and Catalina Island, as these areas fall under the jurisdiction of the California Coastal Commission, which is anticipated to introduce its own regulations on short-term rentals.

The LA County Board of Supervisors' decision reflects a proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by the rapid growth of short-term rentals. By implementing comprehensive regulations, the county aims to strike a balance between supporting homeowners' rights and preserving the integrity of residential communities. As the short-term rental landscape continues to evolve, these measures signify a concerted effort to ensure responsible and sustainable practices in the accommodation sector.