Support SB 1578 (Norment), which affirms local government authority over short-term rentals and requires compliance with local lodging and zoning ordinances. The bill passed the Senate last week and will be before the House General Laws Committee on Thursday afternoon.
In 2016, VACo opposed Airbnb backed legislation that would have preempted local zoning authority and limited the role of localities to collect and audit sales and lodging taxes.
In stark contrast, Senator Thomas Norment’s SB 1578 preserves local authority and authorizes a locality to adopt an ordinance requiring the registration of persons offering property for short-term rental. The bill defines “short-term rental” as the provision of a room or space suitable for sleeping or lodging for less than 30 consecutive days. The bill authorizes localities to impose fees and penalties on persons who violate the registry ordinance or who offer short-term rentals that have multiple violations of state or federal laws or ordinances, including those related to alcoholic beverage control.
VACo supports SB 1578 and urges you to contact your Delegate to vote YES on SB 1578.
TALKING POINTS
- As with any other business situated in a residential setting, local governments are best suited to determine how to allow for and regulate short-term rentals.
- The bill expressly grants localities the authority the protect the health and safety of the consumers and citizens who both lease and rent such property.
VACo Members – Share your thoughts on FlagPoll.
KEY CONTACTS
House General Laws Committee: Gilbert (Chairman), Peace (Vice Chair), Albo, Wright, Anderson, Greason, Knight, LeMunyon, Helsel, Robinson, Yost, Hodges, Bell, Richard P., Minchew, Leftwich, Ward, Bulova, Carr, Torian, McQuinn, Hester, Aird
VACo Contact: Joe Lerch, AICP and Phyllis Errico, CAE