NEW ORLEANS
- Today, Councilmember Palmer released details of a motion to tighten regulations to the City's Short Term Rental (STR) program. The proposed legislation will continue to allow property owners with a homestead exemption to receive an STR permit called a residential license. Whole home rentals are no longer allowed unless located within a commercially zoned district. The STR ban in the French Quarter will remain in place but has been extended to the Garden District.
Residential License Requirements:
- Homestead Exemption
- Owner must be on property during duration of STR rental
- 3 license limit per property
The only other type of STR license permitted by the City Planning Commission is property zoned for commercial or mixed-use purposes. Councilmember Palmer is proposing three categories for commercial licenses: single unit, small scale and large scale. Large and small scale commercial licenses are required to have security cameras and ample lighting for enhanced safety of renters.
Commercial Single Unit:
- Homestead Exemption
- 1 license per unit
Commercial Small Scale:
(commercially zoned property with fewer than 5 residential units)
- Must reserve first floor for commercial use
- 1 license per residential unit
Commercial Large Scale:
(commercially zoned property with 5 or more residential units)
- Must reserve first floor for commercial use
- 1 license per residential unit
- STRs cannot exceed 30% of residential units.
- Each STR unit must be matched with an affordable housing unit.
Councilmember Palmer is available from 2:30 PM to 4 PM to answer additional questions about her proposed motion. Please contact Tiffaney Bradley to schedule an interview.
