Disagreement about short-term rentals

AUSTIN (KXAN) - A long-term issue involving short-term rentals has sometimes put neighbors at disagreement. But soon that could change.

The Austin City Council is scheduled to consider final rules involving short-term rentals, including the definition of "short-term rental, and how often a resident can rent during a month.

Austin is known for some major events during the year like SXSW and Austin City Limits when hotels book at capacity for long periods of time. That's when opportunities can be created for some homeowners who like renting their homes for special events or weekends.

They say it generates extra cash while others say short-term renters can be noisy, lewd and disruptive to the entire neighborhood.

"Short term rentals really bring a wonderful array of visitors to Austin," said Bob Easter, who rents his property sometimes.

Others like Jill Nichols say having a short-term rental nearby can bring down the whole block.

"There's been some occasions when there's been parties going on," said Nichols. "They're
been things occurring that I wouldn't want my children to see."

The council is expected to have final vote Thursday, even though members have already passed rules allowing both owner-occupied and short-term commercial rentals.