Washington, D.C., renters could soon be allowed to list their homes on short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb under new legislation introduced Friday by Mayor Muriel Bowser.
The bill aims to clarify the district’s short-term rental rules while expanding opportunities for residents to earn income from visitors ahead of the city’s America250 celebrations.
Under the proposal, renters could operate a short-term rental at their primary residence unless the property is part of the district’s Rent Stabilization Program or their lease agreement prohibits it. Landlords would still have the final say.
The legislation would also create a new “special event” category, allowing residents to rent their homes during major events designated by the mayor. This change comes as the city anticipates high volumes of tourism for the forthcoming America250 celebrations.
District residents would also be able to obtain short-term rental licenses for additional properties owned in the city.
Unlike a primary residence listing, the second property would not need to be owner-occupied, and owners can also obtain special-event licenses.
This new legislation follows years of political battles surrounding D.C.’s short-term rental rules.
Short-term rentals such as Airbnb were illegal in the district until 2019, despite there being more than 7,000 active rentals at the time.
Under current D.C. law, short-term rentals may only be operated from the property owner’s primary residence, such as a bedroom or basement unit. Houses may be rented for up to 90 days under a separate vacation-rental distinction.
Renters are not permitted to operate short-term or vacation rentals under current regulations.
“Washington, D.C. is a city of homeowners, renters, and entrepreneurs — and this legislation works for all of them,” Bowser said.
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“We’re cutting through the confusion, strengthening consumer protections, and making sure D.C. residents benefit from the tourism that makes this city great,” Bowser said.
The legislation will now head to the D.C. City Council.
