It’s been less than two years since KCMO cut down on its short-term rental stock — “an estimated 7-11% of the city’s hotel supply” — and multiple other metro cities have since followed suit.
What’s the latest?
Prairie Village is the most recent to do so, ruling in favor of a total ban of short-term rentals (STRs) offering stays less than 30 days. This, combined with the city’s existing rules on long-term rentals (annual rental license requirements, inspections, violation fines, etc.), spells a bitter end for the area’s ~30 STRs.
While not outright bans, fellow JoCo cities Shawnee and Fairway have enacted their own rules and regulations — such as buffer zones + population limits —tightening what kinds of STRs can exist in these areas.
Why does it matter?
If you haven’t caught on yet, this means bye-bye Airbnb + Vrbo. And while we love a good staycation, we know this conversation isn’t as simple as choosing the swankiest listing with a Jacuzzi.
Those against STRs argue that they reduce housing stock in desirable areas, and can lead to unsightly conditions or even crime.
Others consider these types of rentals a unique business opportunity for residents — not to mention a necessity when major tourism events (like the FIFA World Cup in 2026) come into town. After all, we are expecting to double KCMO’s total population.
As more cities consider their stances on short-term rentals, we want to hear what you have to say. Operate your own Airbnb? Live across the hall from one? Drop us a line and we’ll share the conversation in an upcoming newsletter.
