University Heights Council discusses enforcement of Airbnb regulations amid community concerns

In the heart of University Heights, Ohio, city council members gathered under the fluorescent lights of city hall to address pressing concerns surrounding rental properties and community safety. The meeting, held on June 16, 2025, was marked by passionate discussions about the challenges posed by short-term rentals, particularly those listed on platforms like Airbnb.

As council members delved into the complexities of rental regulations, the conversation quickly turned to the enforcement of existing ordinances. Councilman Truman raised a critical point regarding the need for property owners to register their rentals, emphasizing that the city should be collecting revenue from these properties. “If there are repeated violations, the University Heights Police Department would have a record of those,” he noted, suggesting that the city could declare a property a nuisance if necessary.

The dialogue revealed a growing frustration among residents, particularly those living near short-term rentals. Concerns about noise, safety, and the character of neighborhoods were echoed by several council members and residents alike. One resident recounted a harrowing experience involving a loud party at a nearby rental, which left her family feeling unsafe and hesitant to call the police for fear of retaliation. “Once you have kids, you want to protect them,” she shared, highlighting the emotional toll these situations can take on families.

Council members acknowledged the limitations of current regulations, particularly in light of a federal lawsuit that restricts outright bans on short-term rentals. However, they expressed a commitment to enforcing existing laws that limit occupancy and noise levels. “We have those ordinances there. Yes, we could apply them, but we also have to get the calls in order for it to happen,” one member pointed out, underscoring the need for community engagement in reporting issues.

The discussion also touched on the challenges posed by out-of-state property owners who often evade local regulations. Director of Housing and Community Development, Markel Davis, noted that many one- and two-family homes remain unregistered, complicating enforcement efforts. “We don’t know they’re not registered until something happens,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance in identifying problem properties.

As the meeting progressed, the council recognized the need for additional staffing to effectively manage and enforce rental regulations. A pending coordinator position was highlighted as crucial for getting the program off the ground. “Getting this program off the ground requires staffing up the department and getting them fully trained,” one council member stated, pointing to the administrative hurdles that have hindered progress.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the delicate balance between fostering a vibrant rental market and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. As University Heights grapples with these challenges, the council remains committed to finding solutions that protect the community while navigating the complexities of rental regulations. The path forward may require not only enforcement of existing laws but also a collaborative effort between residents and city officials to create a safer, more harmonious living environment for all.