This bill amends Section 67-6539 of the Idaho Code to clarify the limitations on the regulation of short-term and vacation rentals by counties and cities. It explicitly prohibits local governments from enacting ordinances that effectively ban these rentals while allowing them to implement reasonable regulations to ensure public health, safety, and the integrity of residential neighborhoods. The bill also reclassifies short-term and vacation rentals as residential land use for zoning purposes, subject to applicable zoning requirements.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that allow counties and cities to require licenses, permits, or certifications for short-term rentals under specific conditions, such as ownership of four or more rentals or generating over $10,000 in annual revenue. It outlines regulations that local governments may impose, including safety requirements like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, maximum occupancy limits, and the provision of emergency contact information. The bill emphasizes that any regulations must not impose greater restrictions on short-term rentals than those applied to similar residential units. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 67-6539