Global STR Opportunities, Hawaii’s Green Fee, and New Enforcement Actions
Summary
This week's industry news covers global STR market opportunities, Hawaii's new "Green Fee", and a crackdown on illegal rentals in Fort Myers Beach using new software. Hosts should pay attention to these trends as they can impact investment decisions and operational compliance.
Key Insights
- •Fort Myers Beach is using new software to enforce vacation rental rules and has identified over 500 unregistered or non-compliant listings.
- •Birmingham, Alabama is expected to make decisions on STR regulations in the first quarter of 2026.
- •Realtor.com highlights top global markets for STRs, with affordability driving investment decisions towards international options like Saint Barthélemy, Mykonos, and Cabo San Lucas.
- •Hawaii's new "Green Fee" adds a 0.75% tax to vacation rental stays, effective January 1st, funding environmental initiatives.
Action Items
- ✓Hosts in Hawaii should update their pricing to reflect the new "Green Fee".Effort: lowImpact: medium
- ✓Hosts in Birmingham, Alabama should monitor the city council's decisions regarding STR regulations and consider participating in the public discussion.Effort: lowImpact: medium
- ✓Hosts in Fort Myers Beach should ensure their listings are registered and compliant with fire safety inspections to avoid fines.Effort: lowImpact: high
Tools & Resources
- →AirDNA: AirDNA data is cited in the article.
Common Mistakes
- ⚠Failing to register and comply with regulations in Fort Myers Beach could result in fines.
More from Regulations & Compliance
Arizona Rep. Bliss's bill regarding short-term rentals has passed, signaling potential changes to the regulatory landscape for hosts in the state. This legislative development could impact operational requirements and potentially the profitability of short-term rental businesses within Arizona. Hosts should stay informed about the specifics to ensure compliance.
Annapolis, MD, is experiencing a surge in short-term rental license applications, indicating increased interest in the STR market. This rise follows efforts to improve compliance with local regulations. Hosts should familiarize themselves with new permit requirements to avoid potential penalties and ensure smooth operations.
This article discusses the construction of more rental homes near transit in Burnaby. The focus is on increasing housing supply near public transportation. While specific STR implications are not detailed, it implies a changing landscape for residential real estate and potentially offers insights into future housing trends that may affect hosts in areas around Burnaby.
Curated by Learn STR by GoStudioM