City Council restricts guest limits for new Airbnb applications in Oklahoma City

A significant decision emerged from the City of Oklahoma City Board of Adjustment meeting on June 5, 2025, as the board approved a special exception for a local Airbnb property, allowing a maximum of seven guests. The property, a three-bedroom, two-bath home, initially sought to accommodate eight guests, prompting extensive discussion about the suitability of such a capacity in a residential setting.

The board's deliberations highlighted concerns about overcrowding, particularly with the potential for two queen beds in one bedroom. Board members emphasized the importance of ensuring that guests would not be packed into the space, which could lead to discomfort and neighborhood disturbances. Ultimately, the decision to limit the guest count to seven was made to balance the homeowner's needs with community standards.

In addition to the guest limit, the board established quiet hours from 9 PM to 8 AM and set a maximum of three vehicles allowed on the property, with no street parking permitted during quiet hours. This decision reflects a growing trend in the city to regulate short-term rentals while accommodating homeowners' desires to share their properties.

The board also discussed the term of the special exception, which was set for one year, allowing for a review of the arrangement in the future. This approach aims to ensure that the property remains a good neighbor within the community.

As the meeting progressed, other applications for short-term rentals were also reviewed, including a two-bedroom, one-bath property that was approved for a maximum of four guests. The board's consistent focus on guest limits and parking regulations underscores the city's commitment to maintaining residential integrity amidst the rise of home-sharing platforms.

The decisions made during this meeting are expected to shape the future of short-term rentals in Oklahoma City, as the board continues to navigate the balance between property owners' rights and community standards.