RAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Bills before the Michigan Legislature would prevent local communities from drafting special regulations when it comes to short-term rentals like those offered through Airbnb.
Supporters say it is about property rights but local officials say it takes away local control.
The short-term rental industry — often referenced with the name of popular booking website Airbnb — gives budget-conscious travelers a less costly place to stay.
Some communities don’t want neighborhood homes turned into vacation homes and have banned such short-term rentals. Grand Rapids allows them, but has significant regulations that include inspections and notifications and fees of between $200 and $400.
But that could change. A pair of bills — House Bill 4503 and Senate Bill 329 — introduced to the Legislature this spring would mandate that short-term rentals be allowed statewide without any restriction.
Full story: WOOD TV