Bella Vista Reviews Short-Term Rental Regulations Amid Resident Complaints
BELLA VISTA, AR – As short-term rentals (STRs) continue to grow in Bella Vista, the City Council is reviewing potential new regulations in response to resident complaints about issues like noise, parking, and neighborhood disruptions.
Growing Concerns from Residents
Many homeowners have voiced frustrations over rental properties listed on Airbnb, VRBO, and other platforms. Complaints include:
Increased traffic and parking congestion in residential neighborhoods.
Noise disturbances from short-term guests.
Concerns over properties being used as party houses rather than vacation rentals.
A perceived lack of enforcement on existing STR properties.
One resident, Mark Jenson, who lives near several short-term rentals, expressed concerns at a recent city meeting:
"We bought a home in a quiet area, and now it feels like we live next to a hotel. Every weekend, we’re dealing with loud guests and packed driveways. The city needs to step in and enforce better rules."
What the City is Considering
The council is reviewing STR regulations and may propose new rules, including:
Occupancy limits to prevent large gatherings.
Stricter parking requirements to reduce congestion.
Noise ordinances with increased fines for violations.
A potential permit system requiring STR owners to register with the city.
Council members emphasized that balancing tourism and resident concerns is the goal.
"Short-term rentals are an economic driver, but we must ensure they don't negatively impact neighborhoods," said Council Member Lisa Howard.
