Arlington Developing Process to Consider Short-Term Rentals on a Case-by-Case Basis

By Office of Communication

Posted on October 17, 2018, October 17, 2018

After affirming at Tuesday night's meeting that short-term home rentals are not currently authorized by existing city code, the Arlington City Council directed staff to create a pathway that would allow for short-term rentals on a case-by-case basis through a public process.

The Council's action comes after a long, deliberate process, which included months of research and numerous public meetings with significant community participation, to find a fair solution for all property owners that meets the City's priority to Champion Great Neighborhoods.

The City plans to create an approach to allow short-term rentals on a case-by-case basis using the existing Specific Use Permit process, which Arlington has used successfully for years to consider complex issues. Highlights of the Specific Use Permit process include notifications to nearby residents and property owners, a detailed application and review process, and public hearings where the City Council can receive input prior to any decisions.

The City Council is expected to consider a Specific Use Permit process for short-term rentals, as well as the adoption of an appropriate review fee, in January 2019. The public will be able to provide feedback on the proposed standards through public hearings at upcoming Planning and Zoning and City Council meetings.