Shawnee is the latest city in the metro to crack down on Airbnbs and other short-term rentals in response to neighborhood complaints. The Shawnee City Council for months has debated whether to tighten restrictions on short-term rentals — or even outright ban them in residential areas — due to mounting complaints about noise, parking, alcohol and trash at Airbnb and Vrbo locations. And on Monday, the council voted 7-1 to add new regulations, joining a growing number of cities nationwide, and one of the first in Johnson County, to do so. Owners of such rentals have advocated for regulations that allow them to continue operating in Shawnee. But other neighbors have pleaded for a ban in single-family neighborhoods or harsher rules. Owners of short-term rentals must pay a $500 fee to obtain a special short-term rental license, which can be revoked for 24 months if regulations aren’t followed. Violators can also face $500 fines or six months jail time. In addition, the rentals can only house a maximum of two adults per bedroom, plus an additional adult, for a maximum of 10 guests total. The rental home’s agent, or operator, must live within 40 miles of the property. The city ordinance also spells out noise, parking and health regulations. The short-term rentals cannot be used for receptions or parties.
Source: Joco 913 News
