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Council approves first reading of vacation rental ordinance with tighter rules in saturated neighborhoods
Summary
Council adopted on first reading amendments to Chapter 5.44 that reduce allowable proximity in most areas, keep a 500-foot radius in specified neighborhoods, require a city-certified training and eliminate the 10-day exemption so all short-term rentals must hold permits; the ordinance returns for second reading Jan. 6, 2026.
The Desert Hot Springs City Council gave the proposed amendments to its vacation rental regulations a first reading and approved them on Dec. 2, with a second reading and final adoption scheduled for Jan. 6, 2026.
Deputy City Manager Christina Newsome presented the draft ordinance that preserves a 500-foot distance requirement in three neighborhoods identified as over-concentrated (Hacienda Heights, Rolling Hills and DHS 41), reduces the spacing requirement to 250 feet in other areas, requires all vacation-rental units to obtain a city permit (eliminating the 10-day exemption) and mandates completion of a city-certified training program for owners. The draft clarifies that permits are non-transferable and will be revoked if ownership changes.
During public comment, Steve Waterstrap, representing Miracle Springs Resort & Spa, welcomed the amendments and urged the city to consider hotel-vacation rental zones that would allow licensed, hotel-serviced villas to operate under a hybrid model he argued would improve enforcement and preserve TOT revenue. Kent Anderson, a resident, urged keeping the 500-foot rule in his neighborhood and called for publication of responsible-party contact numbers to speed enforcement: "I want my quiet, peaceful, and safe neighborhood back," he said.
Council members on the vacation rental subcommittee said the ordinance reflects extensive stakeholder input and that the city will review the rules again as needed. After discussion the council moved to adopt the amendments on first reading; the motion passed unanimously. The ordinance will return for a second reading and possible adoption on Jan. 6, 2026.
Action: First reading passed unanimously; final adoption to be considered at the next scheduled meeting for second reading.
