Reno City Council discusses short term rental regulations amid housing concerns

The Reno City Council convened on June 4, 2025, to address several pressing issues, with a significant focus on the regulation of short-term rentals (STRs) in the city. The meeting began with a review of the agenda, which included discussions on community concerns regarding STRs and their impact on housing availability.

The council revisited the topic of STRs, prompted by previous discussions surrounding accessory dwelling units (ADUs). City staff provided an overview of the current STR market in Reno, noting approximately 1,150 listings, which represent less than 1% of the city's occupied housing units. The presentation highlighted that the majority of service requests related to STRs were inquiries about licensing and regulations, with only ten complaints logged over a 28-month period, primarily concerning noise and parking issues.

Council members expressed varying opinions on the necessity of regulating STRs. Some argued that the current data indicated STRs were not significantly impacting housing availability, while others emphasized the importance of proactive regulation to ensure community safety and fairness in business practices. The discussion included comparisons with other jurisdictions, many of which require business licenses and impose regulations on STRs, including inspections and occupancy limits.

A key point of contention was whether to move forward with drafting an ordinance to regulate STRs or to continue monitoring the situation. Council members debated the potential costs and benefits of implementing such regulations, with some advocating for a licensing fee to generate revenue and ensure compliance with safety standards.

Ultimately, the council voted to accept the report on STRs and directed staff to conduct community outreach to gather further input before drafting a potential ordinance. The motion passed with a vote of 5-2, indicating a clear interest in exploring regulatory options while balancing the concerns of property owners and community members.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing community concerns regarding STRs while navigating the complexities of housing availability and business regulation. The next steps will involve further research and community engagement to inform future decisions on STR policies in Reno.