City Council Proposes Amendments for Short Term Rental Regulations

Amendments to short-term rental regulations took center stage at the Garland work session on September 2, as city officials outlined significant changes aimed at enhancing oversight and compliance. This discussion follows a previous meeting on August 18, where council members provided feedback on proposed amendments.

Key changes include a new requirement for short-term rental (STR) owners to submit a floor plan for approval when applying for a permit. This plan must be inspected annually to ensure compliance, with strict penalties for any unauthorized deviations that could lead to permit revocation.

Additionally, the timeframe for addressing violations has been extended from six months to one year, allowing STR owners more time to rectify issues before facing suspension or revocation of their permits. The permit fee has also seen a substantial increase from $50 to a minimum of $500, reflecting the administrative costs associated with the program, particularly with the added annual inspections.

Insurance requirements have been raised significantly, now mandating coverage of up to $1 million per event and $250,000 per individual. Other amendments include restrictions on on-street parking and a minimum stay of 48 hours for guests.

These changes aim to strengthen the regulatory framework surrounding short-term rentals in Garland, ensuring safety and compliance while addressing community concerns. The council anticipates that these amendments will lead to better management of STRs and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.