Michigan City officials discuss monitoring Airbnb compliance and code enforcement challenges

The Michigan City Common Council Workshop held on June 10, 2025, focused on several pressing issues, particularly concerning the management of short-term rental properties and the enforcement of related ordinances.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the challenges faced by the city in monitoring and regulating management companies associated with short-term rentals, such as Airbnbs. Council members expressed concerns about the effectiveness of existing ordinances, particularly one established in 2021, which outlines penalties for property owners who fail to comply with registration requirements. The ordinance stipulates that after three violations, property owners may face stricter consequences.

Council members highlighted the need for a reliable system to track property ownership and ensure compliance with registration. The conversation underscored the importance of code enforcement in monitoring these properties, with some members questioning how enforcement could be effectively carried out given the current workload of the department.

A proposed solution discussed was the implementation of a Geographic Information System (GIS) that would help track short-term rentals by address or parcel. This system aims to enhance the city’s ability to respond to complaints and monitor compliance more effectively. However, council members acknowledged that the development and integration of such systems would take time.

The meeting concluded with a call for improved communication and reporting mechanisms to ensure that residents can easily notify code enforcement about potential violations. The council emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining oversight of short-term rentals, reiterating the principle of "if you see something, say something."

Overall, the workshop highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance regulatory frameworks for short-term rentals in Michigan City, addressing both community concerns and the need for effective enforcement strategies.