Fort Collins residents oppose proposed short-term rental restrictions in Old Town North

Fort Collins residents are voicing strong concerns over proposed restrictions on short-term rentals (STRs) during the recent City Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held on May 15, 2025. The discussions highlighted the potential impact of these regulations on housing affordability and community dynamics, particularly in the Old Town North neighborhood.

Kyle Keeler, a long-time resident and vice president of the Old Town North Homeowners Association, shared his personal experience with STRs, emphasizing their role in making housing affordable for his family. He expressed concern that the proposed restrictions would not only limit new non-primary STRs but also create a two-tiered system that favors existing STR owners while excluding newcomers based on arbitrary deadlines. Keeler argued that this approach contradicts the City of Fort Collins' commitment to equality and could lead to financial instability for families like his, who rely on STRs for supplemental income.

Keeler's parents, who are in the process of building a two-unit home with plans to use one unit as an STR, also face uncertainty due to the proposed changes. He urged the commission to consider a grace period for new property owners to apply for STR licenses after receiving their certificates of occupancy, similar to provisions made in previous land use code amendments.

The meeting also featured testimonies from other residents, including Harry, who highlighted the negative effects of increased development in the area and called for a halt to certain construction activities. The discussions underscored a growing tension between the desire for affordable housing and the need to maintain neighborhood integrity.

As the commission deliberates on these proposed amendments, the community remains engaged, advocating for policies that balance the interests of current residents with the need for housing flexibility and affordability. The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications for Fort Collins' housing landscape and the future of STRs in the city.