Connecticut Short-Term Rental Laws: A Look at The Proposed Connecticut HB 335

Connecticut's House Bill 335 (HB 335) has been making waves in the state's short-term rental industry, including booking platforms like Airbnb. This proposed legislation aims to grant municipalities greater control over the regulation of short-term rentals within their jurisdictions, addressing concerns such as overcrowding, disruptive guests, and parking issues that have arisen in recent years.

The Proposed Measures

HB 335, introduced by State Senator Catherine Osten, seeks to empower local governments to impose zoning restrictions, guest occupancy limits, and parking requirements on properties being leased for short-term rentals. The bill's primary objective is to strike a balance between the growing popularity of STRs and the well-being of full-time residents in residential neighborhoods.

If enacted, HB 335 could significantly impact the short-term rental landscape in Connecticut. Hosts operating in residential areas may face stricter rules regarding the number of guests they can accommodate, parking requirements, and potentially even zoning restrictions that could limit or prohibit STR operations in certain neighborhoods.

Supporters of the bill argue that these measures are necessary to preserve the character of residential communities and address the negative externalities associated with unregulated short-term rentals, such as noise disturbances and overcrowding.

However, opponents of HB 335, including many STR hosts and industry advocates, have raised concerns about the potential economic impact on the state's tourism industry and the rights of property owners. They argue that the proposed regulations could stifle a growing sector of the economy and infringe on the ability of homeowners to generate supplemental income through short-term rentals.

As the legislative process continues, both sides of the debate are expected to intensify their efforts to sway public opinion and influence the outcome of HB 335.

Connecticut HB 335 Timeline and Will It Pass?

As of April 2024, HB 335 has successfully passed through the Connecticut House of Representatives and is currently under consideration by the State Senate. If approved by the Senate, the bill will then proceed to the Governor's desk for final approval or veto.

The legislative process for HB 335 has been closely watched by both STR hosts and concerned residents. Public hearings and debates have taken place, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions and concerns regarding the potential impact of the proposed regulations.

Regardless of the bill's ultimate fate, it is clear that the issue of short-term rental regulations in Connecticut is far from resolved. As the state grapples with the challenges and opportunities presented by the sharing economy, finding a balanced approach that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders will be crucial for the long-term sustainability of the state's STR industry.