Lexington is facing a contentious debate over the rise of short-term rentals (STRs) in residential neighborhoods, as residents express concerns about the impact on their community. The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council is currently considering a Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment (ZOTA) aimed at addressing the proliferation of STRs, spurred by a push for increased density, particularly in downtown areas.
Long-term residents report that their neighborhoods are being transformed into business districts, with properties being marketed as Airbnbs and VRBOs. This trend, while lucrative for property owners and appealing for tourists, leaves many community members feeling overwhelmed. Increased traffic, noise, and safety issues linked to frequent transient occupancy have become prevalent concerns.
Research indicates that STRs contribute to rising home prices and rental costs, compounding the current housing crisis in Lexington. Investors are drawn to the market, with some owning multiple STR properties and reaping profits that far exceed those from long-term rentals. In response to these challenges, many residents are advocating for policy changes to protect their neighborhoods.
In light of ongoing concerns, community advocates are pushing for specific amendments to the proposed ZOTA. They recommend increasing the buffer zone between STRs to a radius of 700 feet, limiting neighborhood STR density to 2 percent, and capping the number of guests at 10. They also call for prioritizing hosted rentals, which require owners to live on-site for the majority of the year.
The issue has escalated with incidents of crime and disturbances linked to unhosted STRs, highlighted by a recent situation involving police intervention for disruptive activities at a local rental. Such occurrences have heightened worries over safety in these previously quiet neighborhoods.
Moreover, residents seek clearer regulations to prevent ambiguity regarding enforcement and compliance. Recommendations include establishing a 24/7 hotline for reporting STR-related complaints, which would facilitate better communication between local authorities and community members.
As Lexington navigates the complexities of STR regulation, city leaders face the challenge of balancing business growth with the rights of homeowners. With continued public discourse and advocacy, the upcoming decisions could significantly shape the future landscape of residential communities in Lexington.
