The city of Cleveland is seeking to regulate short-term rentals with new laws to address growing concerns among residents.
The city estimates there are between 900 and 1,500 short-term rentals like AirBnb and VRBOs, but officials say it's uncertain to know how many for sure.
A new legislative package would require all short-term rentals to go through a licensing process, including a $150 application fee and annual renewal.
It would also create a density cap of no more than 15% of short term rentals out of all residential units on a block or in a multi-unit building.
"What that allows to ensure 鈥� that they maintain the character of their residential street, essentially," said Shannan Leonard, the city's chief zoning administrator at .
Leonard said current laws are difficult to enforce and rely on complaints from the community 鈥� which council members attest are more frequent in recent years.
"I'm passionate about the area and the neighborhood," Cleveland homeowner Mike Howard told council members on Tuesday. "But this Airbnb 鈥� I've got one behind me now and one next to me 鈥� and it's disruptive. It's unsettling."
Council members detailed some community reports of partying, loud noises, parking violations and other neighborhood disturbances.
The law would also require a local point of contact available 24/7 while the unit is occupied.
If the legislation is approved, the city can fine violators operating without a license up to $5,000.
The rest of council will vet the legislation before final approval.