STR bill not necessarily a bad thing

Idaho Gov. Brad Little recently signed House Bill 583 related to short-term rentals. While we’re not wild about a bill that usurps areas of local control of STRs, this may not be a bad thing.

First, here’s what HB 583 does: 

Counties and cities may only enact ordinances on short-term rentals to address the following: 

• Requirements for smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors and removable escape ladders 

• Requirements for occupant limits in accordance with international building codes  

• Requirements for informational handouts and the location of exits, first-aid kits, and contact information of the owner or manager of the property. 

What cities and counties can’t do is limit the STR numbers, which is something Coeur d’Alene was considering a few years ago. It can't require the property owner live onsite. 

Rep. Jordan Redman, a bill sponsor, said it was a three-year effort to get here. “We were able to protect private property rights for Idaho homeowners.”

Spencer K. Bailey, president of the Idaho Vacation Rental Association, had this to say about HB 583: It establishes “a clear and consistent standard for how Idaho treats homeowners who rent their property. With support from 77 legislators across both chambers, Idaho has sent a strong message: homeowners deserve equal treatment under the law, whether they rent short-term or long-term. This law ensures fair and consistent protections for all responsible homeowners while preserving every tool communities need to safeguard health, safety, and quality of life. “ 

To that, Coeur d’Alene Mayor Dan Gookin has this response: “I counter that it's now obvious that some homeowners are more equal than others."

There are common concerns about STRs: They hurt the character of neighborhoods because strangers are coming and going; they generate noise, trash and traffic; they reduce the number of available long-term rentals and drive up rental prices.  

But, as we have said, Idaho is big on property rights. Residents do not like Big Brother mandating what they can and can’t do with their property. So, if they want an STR, they should be able to do so.

A few years ago, it was estimated there were between 840 and 1,200 vacation rentals in Coeur d’Alene, with only about 450 legally permitted. That situation has improved, with most now permitted. STR owners must go through the city for a permit. They are inexpensive: First year: $285; Renewals: $180. Those that don’t have one should be fined, which is on the books.

STRs continue to grow in popularity as a way for a property owner to generate income. Some say STRs help pay their bills. That should not be taken away. Property should not be forced to provide long-term rentals, as much as we might support it.

While we want our neighborhoods to maintain a small-town feel, we also understand a property owner’s rights and desire to operate an STR.

Yes, it is annoying to have strangers coming and going in the STR next door. It is unfortunate longtime neighbors are moving on. But more STRs, not fewer, are bound our way.

This doesn't have to be a problem.

We ask that STR owners pay attention to who is staying in their home, keep the property clean and be sure their guests are being respectful and courteous. If they do, that will go a long way toward reducing opposition to STRs.