Birmingham residents push for regulations on short term rental properties

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ( WIAT ) — The city of Birmingham’s Zoning and Advisory Committee heard from residents Tuesday at a public hearing about zoning ordinances concerning Airbnb’s and short-tern rental properties.

A lined wrapped around the room at the meeting as dozens of residents waited their turn to speak before the committee.

Crestwood North resident, Verna Gates, is one resident who took to the podium to share her worries, saying her concerns are much deeper than noise complaints and parking concerns.

“I’m concerned about the children. There’s been a lot of information about sex trafficking and child predators. People who have been accused of sex offenses can get around the law by bringing out an Airbnb and have them doing that,” said Gates.

Gates was joined alongside numerous residents who said they want the city of Birmingham to implement regulations and guidelines around short term rental properties. Adding that crime, noise and a decline in property value are also big concerns.

“There’s one house that has a lot of parties all the time. It’s noisy, they make a mess, you can’t get your car around them. It’s just a very difficult situation,” said Gates.

Airbnb property owner Diane Harrison took to the podium as well to share her thoughts, saying there is a misconception surrounding short term rental properties.

“I do have cameras, exterior cameras, so I know exactly who’s coming and going. And only registered guests are allowed on my properties that have been vetted. If I see anybody
else on my property the reservation is canceled, and they are evicted,” said Harrison.

Harrison wasn’t alone, as Luxurious Homes and Properties owner Antonio Woody also took the podium to share his thoughts.

“One of the messages I want to give is telling people come forward and let us know. Airbnb, let us know what’s going on because some of the things they are saying we do not know.
We don’t know none of these issues are going on. And one thing about our community, the Airbnb community, we want our neighbors to feel safe,” said Woody.

There is one thing both residents and hosts had in common: the need for regulations.

“I’m 100% in favor of having regulations because there are a few bad apples that do not host responsibly,” said Harrison.

The zoning and advisory committee says they are considering making regulations that would require permits by hosts, and for guests to adhere by the city’s noise and parking regulations
among other things.

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