S.F. No. 1190 (First Engrossment) prevents counties, cities, and towns from enacting, amending, or enforcing a zoning ordinance that prohibits or treats vacation rentals as interim uses in residential zones.  Counties, cities, and towns are subject to the same requirements.  Section 1 applies to counties.  Section 2 applies to municipalities (defined as cities and towns).

A definition of vacation rental is provided.  A vacation rental includes houses, apartments, and other dwellings rented on a short-term basis that has basic living accommodations.  Hotels, motels, and similar establishments are excluded.

The governing body of the local government must not enact, amend, or enforce a zoning ordinance that prohibits or treats vacation rentals as an interim use in residential zones.  Further, the ordinance must not limit the use of vacation rentals based only on their occupancy, classification, or use.  The local government may license these properties as rental housing or may require the property owner to register the property with the local government.  The governing body may adopt ordinances that place restrictions or limitations on vacation rentals that protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

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