US: The Manistee City Council has moved forward with a new ordinance to regulate short-term rentals. The ordinance passed its first vote 6-1 and will be reviewed again on 15th July for final approval.
Key points of the ordinance include:
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A $100 annual registration fee per short-term rental.
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A $150 inspection fee every three years to ensure properties meet safety standards.
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A cap of 165 rentals outside certain zones, with areas like downtown and beaches excluded.
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Hosts must maintain insurance and provide a local contact available 24/7.
City Manager Bill Gambill said the city will distribute a “Good Neighbor Guide” to ensure hosts and guests follow rules on noise, parking, and trash disposal.
Some residents have raised concerns about the ordinance’s impact on property values and the local economy. Council Member Liz Laskey described the ordinance as a “starting point” that may need adjustments in the future.
The final reading and vote are scheduled for 15th July 2025.
The rise in short-term rentals has led many cities to consider new regulations, as they balance the benefits of tourism with the needs of local residents. As more communities across the US and globally look to regulate the sector, the outcomes in places like Manistee could set important precedents for how short-term rental markets are managed moving forward.
Highlights:
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Manistee City Council voted 6-1 in favour of Ordinance 25-02, adding Chapter 868 to the city’s codified ordinances.
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The ordinance includes a $100 annual registration fee, a $150 inspection fee every three years, a cap of 165 rentals outside certain zones, and requirements for insurance and a local contact.
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The council will review the ordinance again on 15th July for final approval.
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City Manager Bill Gambill emphasised the importance of education through a “Good Neighbor Guide” to ensure hosts and guests follow rules on noise, parking, and trash disposal.
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Some residents have raised concerns about the ordinance’s impact on property values and the local economy.
