The city has more than 7,000 active Airbnb listings, but only about 1,350 are legally licensed, highlighting the issue of illegal rentals. City Council President J.P. Morrell suggested banning Airbnb if regulation proves impossible, while other council members await the outcome of the lawsuit. Airbnb hosts in New Orleans, like Bret Bodin and Brad Newell, argue that the regulations have made it difficult to sustain their income amid rising costs. The lawsuit reflects broader tensions between Airbnb and cities attempting to regulate short-term rentals to address housing shortages and affordability issues.
Key takeaways:
- Airbnb is suing the City of New Orleans over regulations requiring the company to ensure properties comply with city laws, arguing it should not be responsible for enforcing these rules.
- New Orleans has struggled with illegal short-term rentals, with over 7,000 active Airbnb listings but only 1,350 legally licensed properties, contributing to the city's affordable housing crisis.
- The city council's new regulations, set to take effect in June, require Airbnb and other platforms to verify that properties have city permits, a move Airbnb opposes as overly punitive.
- Some Airbnb hosts in New Orleans, facing rising costs, argue that the city's regulations limit their ability to earn essential income from short-term rentals.