During the Hocking County Zoning Meeting on June 26, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding short-term rental regulations, drawing comparisons to stringent policies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The meeting highlighted the need for Hocking County to consider more robust regulations as local leaders examined the current minimal requirements for short-term rentals.

Scott, a member of the zoning committee, presented findings from his research into Sevier County's regulations, noting that they impose a $250 annual rental permit fee and require yearly inspections. He emphasized that despite these strict measures, Gatlinburg has seen a substantial increase in short-term rentals, growing from 5,000 to 25,000 since 2015. This statistic sparked a conversation about the effectiveness of stringent regulations in managing rental growth without driving businesses away.

The committee acknowledged that Hocking County's current approach is less rigorous, with fewer requirements for inspections and permits. This led to a broader discussion about the potential benefits of adopting more comprehensive regulations to ensure safety and compliance in the growing short-term rental market.

As the meeting concluded, members expressed a commitment to further explore these regulations, with Scott offering to provide copies of his research to anyone interested. The conversation underscored the ongoing debate about balancing growth in the rental market with community standards and safety. The committee plans to continue discussions on this topic in future meetings, aiming to develop a framework that aligns with successful models from other jurisdictions.