Smithville takes aim at short-term rentals

SMITHVILLE — Several Smithville homes have joined a recent national trend and become quick vacation spots as shortterm rentals (STRs), and City Council this month approved two zoning changes to make sure they pay their dues.

The council voted Dec. 8 to revise its STR regulations so proprietors must be up to date on property taxes and the city’s hotel occupancy tax (HOT) to continue operating. Planning and Zoning Commission member Caroline Noya estimated around 69% of the city’s current STR operators are not registered or paying HOT taxes.

“It’s not fair to the (renters) that are compliant to allow the non-compliant ones to continue operating,” Noya said.