[dropcap size=big]A[/dropcap]fter more than three years of debate — including an 11th hour plot twist — the Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously in favor of new restrictions on Airbnb-style short-term rentals.
The City Council stripped from the proposed new ordinance a controversial tweak that would have essentially allowed people to host short-term rentals in other properties besides their primary residence. Today’s vote sends that and two additional amendments back to the Planning & Land Use Management Committee, to be re-worked as a stand-alone ruling.
The new rules passed Tuesday will limit short-term rental to only primary residences and block rent-controlled units from Airbnb, and other similar platforms. The rules apply throughout the entire city, including tourist hot spots such as Venice and Hollywood. They take effect in July.
“Please take immediate action to protect the [Rent Stabilization Ordinance] and housing not just for me and my mom, but for every tenant facing eviction,” said Diana Cruz during public comment. Cruz, a Koreatown resident, said her landlord is trying to evict her and her mother from their apartment, and blames lucrative short-term rentals for it.