Santa Ana, CA – March 8, 2023 – The Santa Ana City Council has taken a decisive step to preserve the city’s residential character and regulate short-term rental activities. In a unanimous vote, the council adopted an ordinance banning all short-term rentals within city limits, aiming to address the negative impacts associated with this business practice.
Preserving Neighborhood Serenity and Housing Stock
The new ordinance prohibits the offering, renting, or maintaining of any short-term rental for less than 30 days. This ban is intended to alleviate concerns raised by residents regarding excessive noise, traffic congestion, parking issues, trash accumulation, and other disturbances resulting from frequent turnover of short-term renters.
According to city officials, Santa Ana has witnessed a significant rise in short-term rentals, primarily through online platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo. This surge has raised concerns about neighborhood degradation and the diversion of much-needed housing stock for long-term residents.
An Estimated 1,100 Units Affected
The city estimates that over 1,100 active short-term rental units currently operate in Santa Ana, representing approximately 35% of the city’s new housing needs as projected by the state. By prohibiting short-term rentals, the city aims to increase the housing supply for families and individuals seeking stable and affordable homes.
Addressing Community Concerns
The ordinance was crafted in response to numerous complaints from Santa Ana residents regarding the disruptive impacts of short-term rentals in their neighborhoods. City staff conducted outreach and engaged in community dialogue to gather feedback and concerns, which were taken into consideration in the development of the ordinance.
A Balance of Interests
The city recognizes that short-term rentals can generate revenue for property owners and provide travelers with alternative accommodation options. However, the negative consequences have prompted the city to prioritize the preservation of residential neighborhoods and the long-term housing needs of its residents.
Enforcement and Compliance
The city will enforce the short-term rental ban through inspections and penalties for noncompliance. Residents are encouraged to report any suspected violations by contacting the Santa Ana Code Enforcement Division.
Commitment to Community Well-being
The passage of the short-term rental ban demonstrates the Santa Ana City Council’s commitment to protecting neighborhood integrity, maintaining a healthy housing market, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. The ordinance is expected to have a significant impact on the city’s residential landscape, providing a more stable and livable environment for the community.
Data sourced from: ktla.com
