Joelle Fredman
WMAL.com

WASHINGTON — (WMAL) Councilmember Kenyan R. McDuffie introduced a bill Tuesday that would regulate short-term housing rentals in D.C.

While he welcomes short-term rentals, McDuffie, chairman of the Committee on Business and Economic Development, said he wants to make sure that residents are not taking advantage.

In Columbia Heights there was one building that was offering units just to short-term renters. McDuffie said this puts pressure on the overall housing stock and reducing the amount of affordable housing available to residents.

“What we’re trying to do is really provide a clear process for residents who want to rent out their houses while they are on vacation for a week or two,” McDuffie said.

The bill would require that those who wish to rent out their homes are the permanent owners of their units, and that they acquire a permit for renting their spaces.

Under the measure residents would be able to rent out their homes for up to 15 cumulative days a year.

The fine for violating the law would be $1,000 for the first violation, $4,000 for the second and $7,000 for further violations.

This bill does not prohibit home sharing services like AirBNB and VRBO from operating in D.C.

“What we really are thinking to do is protect residents and preserve the character and integrity of neighborhoods,” McDuffie said.

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