Calistoga council discusses short term rentals amid technology insights from League of Cities

The Calistoga City Council convened on June 25, 2025, to discuss several pressing issues, with a significant focus on the regulation of short-term rentals in the community. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to address the challenges posed by unpermitted rentals and their impact on local housing availability.

During the discussions, a council member referenced insights gained from presentations at the League of California Cities, where data indicated that approximately 20 short-term rentals were operating without permits in Calistoga. This information was derived from advanced software used by rental tracking companies, which can identify properties based on their rental activity, even if they are marketed as long-term rentals. The council member emphasized the importance of this data in understanding the short-term rental landscape in the city.

The deputy city manager contributed to the conversation by recalling a successful sting operation conducted by the planning department and the Napa District Attorney's office about 15 years ago, which effectively curtailed short-term rentals for nearly a decade. This historical context underscored the potential effectiveness of renewed enforcement efforts.

The council acknowledged that addressing the short-term rental issue is not only about regulating accommodations but also about preserving the local housing stock. By ensuring compliance among rental operators, the city aims to support those who adhere to regulations and contribute to the transient occupancy tax (TOT), while also alleviating pressure on housing availability for residents.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for continued action to regulate short-term rentals, with the council expressing a commitment to explore further measures to ensure fairness and compliance within the community.