Oklahoma City board approves special exception for 5-bedroom Airbnb with conditions

Oklahoma City’s Board of Adjustment convened on April 17, 2025, to discuss significant changes to local home-sharing regulations, particularly focusing on two applications for special exceptions related to Airbnb properties.

The first application, case number 15884, proposed a home-sharing arrangement at a property that would accommodate up to 12 guests. The applicant, seeking to convert a five-bedroom home, faced community concerns regarding noise and parking. In response, the board agreed to implement strict regulations: a maximum of seven guests, a limit of four vehicles, and enforced quiet hours from 8 PM to 8 AM. The decision was made for an initial term of one year, allowing the board to reassess the situation based on community feedback and operational performance.

The second application, case number 15886, was presented by Austin Kohn, who aimed to transform another property into a home-sharing venue. This proposal also sparked protests from neighbors worried about the impact on their community. Residents voiced concerns about safety, noise, and the potential for increased traffic due to the proposed maximum of 12 guests. The board deliberated on the number of guests and parking arrangements, ultimately leaning towards a limit of eight guests for the first year, contingent on the applicant providing documentation to confirm the number of bedrooms post-remodel.

Both cases highlight the ongoing tension between the growth of short-term rentals and community concerns in Oklahoma City. The board's decisions reflect a cautious approach, balancing the interests of property owners with the need to maintain neighborhood integrity. As these applications move forward, the board will continue to monitor their impact on local residents, with the potential for adjustments in the future based on performance and community feedback.