Lexington has no shortage of unique places to stay, and many visitors are turning to short term rentals (STRs) like Airbnbs and Vrbos. The city recently implemented regulations allowing property owners to register STRs, but some locals still have concerns.
To address this, Lexington introduced a new hotline to streamline reporting + resolving issues — think: noise regulations, parking violations, or licensure questions. Concerned Lexingtonians can submit potential STR-related issues through the city’s online portal or by calling (859) 710-9048.
In July 2023, the Urban County Council passed changes to its ordinances to help regulate STRs, including licensure requirements, duties of license holders, and occupancy limits. So far, 729 STRs have registered with the city.
These rules aim to balance the number of STRs while still making it possible to register a rental — which generates revenue for the city through taxes. According to recently released data from Airbnb, it’s estimated that hosts + guests in Lexington generated $54 million in economic activity in 2023.
What happens if you file a complaint?
- When submitting your report, you will be asked to provide details + any evidence. This will be sent to the city’s Division of Revenue that oversees STR licenses.
- The department will notify licensed property owners of the concern and require them to address and acknowledge it.
- If the residence is not licensed as an STR, the owner may also be subjected to a fine for violating the city ordinance.
The city continues to assess its governing of STRs. In addition to the new hotline, the city approved changes to its regulations last week. This includes reducing the maximum occupancy of a STR and limiting the density of unhosted STRs (units where the owner does not live on the property).
