AN ACT relating to short-term rentals.
SB81 creates a new section of Kentucky law governing short-term rentals. It defines a short-term rental broadly to include dwelling units such as single-family homes, multifamily units, condominiums, timeshares, and accessory dwelling units rented for less than 30 days. The bill requires all short-term rentals to comply with existing state and local zoning, building code, and fire safety laws, regulations, and ordinances.
The bill also expressly authorizes local governments to regulate short-term rentals through ordinances. Those ordinances may establish registries, impose licensing or inspection fees, restrict where short-term rentals may operate, prohibit use of properties with ordinance violations or criminal activity during prior short-term rental use, cap the total number of short-term rentals in a jurisdiction or by owner, limit density or proximity of rentals, and require owner occupancy during rental periods. In effect, the bill confirms and expands local authority over short-term rental regulation rather than creating a statewide licensing system.
SB81 would add a new statutory framework in KRS Chapter 65 giving cities and counties explicit authority to regulate short-term rentals. It would affect property owners, hosts, local governments, and enforcement agencies by clarifying that short-term rentals are subject to zoning, building, and fire safety rules and by allowing local ordinances on registration, fees, location, density, occupancy, and enforcement-based restrictions. The bill does not appear to preempt local regulation; instead, it strengthens local control over the short-term rental market.
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee transcripts or votes, the overall sentiment appears neutral and regulatory in nature. The measure is framed as a local-government authority bill rather than a pro- or anti-rental ban, suggesting an intent to balance short-term rental activity with neighborhood, safety, and land-use concerns. No recorded debate or vote history is available here to indicate stronger support or opposition.
The main points of contention likely involve the scope of local control and the burden on short-term rental operators. Supporters would likely favor the bill for giving cities and counties tools to address zoning conflicts, nuisance complaints, safety issues, and neighborhood impacts. Opponents may object to licensing fees, occupancy requirements, caps on the number of rentals, density restrictions, and the ability to bar properties based on prior violations or criminal activity, arguing these provisions could limit property rights and reduce tourism-related income.