Calistoga Council reviews measures to tackle illegal short term rentals

The Calistoga City Council convened on February 25, 2025, to discuss the growing issue of short-term rentals in the community. Planning and Building Director Greg Desmond presented the council with concerns regarding illegal short-term rentals, which have been a persistent challenge despite the city’s long-standing prohibition on such activities.

Desmond highlighted that while Calistoga has a rich history of hospitality, the rise of platforms like Airbnb and VRBO has led to an increase in unauthorized rentals. He emphasized the need for a more efficient enforcement strategy to manage these rentals, suggesting that consulting agencies and software solutions could assist city staff in identifying and regulating illegal operations.

Council members expressed their support for exploring these solutions. Mayor Williams and Council Member Eisember both called for more detailed information on potential software options, including cost-benefit analyses and the effectiveness of enforcement measures. They noted the importance of maintaining the character of Calistoga’s neighborhoods and ensuring fair competition for local hotels.

Council Member Giff raised concerns about the impact of illegal rentals on housing availability for residents, reiterating that each unauthorized rental reduces the housing stock for full-time residents. He advocated for the use of technology to enhance enforcement capabilities and suggested that the city consider increasing fines for violations to deter illegal rentals.

The council agreed to direct staff to further investigate available technologies and potentially issue a request for proposals (RFP) for software solutions that could help manage short-term rental enforcement. The discussion underscored the council's commitment to preserving the community's charm while addressing the challenges posed by unauthorized rentals.

As the meeting concluded, the council recognized the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the issue, balancing the interests of residents, local businesses, and the integrity of the community. Further updates and proposals are expected in future meetings as the city seeks to implement effective regulations.