What are short-term residential rentals?
‘Home sharing’ (or short-term residential rentals) refers to the rental of houses, condos, or apartments to short-term guests, which has become a popular way for owners to earn extra income across the United States. Short-term residential rentals typically occur through online home-sharing platforms, such as Airbnb, Expedia, FlipKey, HomeAway, TripAdvisor, and VRBO.
Why a Study?
In 2017, the Virginia General Assembly adopted a law that allows a locality to adopt an ordinance to establish a local short-term residential rental registry. In 2018, Alexandria established its short-term rental registry which is maintained by the Department of Finance. At the time of the registry adoption, the City Council determined that regulation of short-term rentals should be handled via existing City Code and Zoning Ordinance regulations.
Due to recent calls for additional regulation of short-term rentals, the City Council directed staff to research the topic, provide a report and presentation, and begin a study to include community engagement. Below are the report and presentation shared with City Council this spring:
Timeline and Community Engagement
Below is the anticipated timeline for the continued study and opportunities for community input. This schedule may be extended if initial engagement suggests additional time will help resolve the issues identified. Information will be updated as it becomes available.
- May/June: Continue research on short-term rental regulations implemented in other jurisdictions.
- August 15-September 15
- Community members were invited to watch an 18-minute video to help understand the background, benefits, and impacts of short-term rentals. The video also presents proposed new policies to address common concerns.
- An online feedback form was open from August 14-September 15 for community comments and questions. Feedback received will help staff better craft policy recommendations.
- September 20: Planning Commission Retreat Update
- October 29 - November 17
- Community members were invited to watch a 14-minute video that shares what the City has heard to date and how input received informed revised proposed regulations.
- An online feedback form was open from October 29 - November 17. Based on comments received, staff may propose additional changes prior to City Council’s consideration of the proposed regulations in February.
- February: Planning Commission and City Council public hearings on recommendations and proposed text amendment.
Further Resources and Information
Questions?
Contact zoning staff at pczoning@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.4666.