Tourism is Under Attack

As more cities start to impose unfair and restrictive regulations on property managers, effectively banning vacation rental operations and the pursuit of hospitality livelihoods, it’s becoming increasingly clear that, as an industry, we need to fight back.?

Although some regulations can be beneficial and are often supported by leaders as it leads to improved professionalism, safety, and standards for our sector, the current requirements that city governments are imposing are nothing short of an outright attack on tourism. In some of the latest U.S. news, The Honolulu City Council voted to approve a bill that would ban any short-term #vacationrentals outside of resort areas for fewer than 90 days and that the current minimum stay for STRs is 30 days. Officials also banned commercial activity on bustling Oahu beaches, banning most businesses from operating at various city beaches and parks.

To combat this, Hawai’i Legal Short-Term Rental Alliance (HILSTRA) successfully filed an injunction against the City and County of Honolulu, and the federal courts sided with the Alliance, noting the proposed legislation as a violation of state ordinances that a county cannot pass a law that discontinues previous legal use of properties. This decision is an exciting step in the right direction. It sets an essential precedent for STR operations – and is a shining light for other regions facing similar challenges and blowback, like #TybeeIsland in Georgia.?

Tybee Island is a great tourist destination with local property managers who want to see the community thrive but are in the midst of one of the most brutal battles with the city council, which is actively revoking property and business rights. A recently passed ordinance bans new STR residential zones, covering about 75% of the island. Also, existing STRs are non-conforming use until the owner revokes or forfeits the permit. Like, HILSTRA, Tybee Island has formed its own alliance to band together and protect the lifestyle and businesses of so many island residents.?

Tybee Alliance has already filed a lawsuit against the city and is pursuing all options to fight the island’s unenforceable restrictions that signify a massive detrimental step backward for the community. It is an alliance of stakeholders interested in the responsible growth and economic viability of the region, composed of Tybee residents, Tybee business owners, realtors, homeowners, short-term vacation rental managers, and more people who care about the success of their home and local businesses.?

STRs are a vital part of many communities and their economic viability, employment, and tax base. Restrictions like this are harmful because they negatively impact these progressive elements, which is why we’re seeing a much-needed rise in vacation rental management alliances that are working tirelessly to keep the industry and their livelihoods above water. To make a sustainable change, it's crucial to protect the property rights of homeowners while also educating the neighborhoods on the various positive impacts vacation rentals have for residents and visitors alike.?

The Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA) is another vital institution and game-changer in advocating for the rights of property managers and the implementation of fair, high-quality standards that help the STR industry to evolve. The VRMA provides important information and networking opportunities that promote the value of the vacation rental experience and to foster professionalism, collaboration, and growth. The organization is an excellent resource for advocacy and education – even providing methods to avoid vacation rental bans, such as knowing your neighbors, occupancy laws, noise mandates, and zoning, to also understanding your guests and property to establish key rules for behavior and safety.?

Organizations like the VRMA, #TybeeAlliance, and HILSTRA, are perfect examples of how #leaders can band together to cultivate our sector and lead to progressive and #sustainable change that leaves all parties satisfied. Happy neighbors lead to happy guests, allowing the STR sector to thrive without impeding regulations and continue to make priceless memories and community value for everyone.?