Iowa Senate Bill SF341

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/25
• Refer: 2/18/25

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the regulation of short-term rental properties by counties and cities.

Impact

With the enactment of SF341, counties and cities over the specified population threshold would lose the ability to impose regulations that could vary from state mandates. This could lead to an increase in the availability of short-term rental options in urban areas, which supporters argue may boost local economies by promoting tourism and generating income for property owners. However, it may also impact housing availability for residents, as properties traditionally used for long-term housing could be converted into short-term rentals in areas where regulations have been lifted.

Summary

Senate File 341 is a proposed legislation in Iowa that addresses the regulation of short-term rental properties by counties and cities. Specifically, the bill stipulates that counties and cities with populations exceeding seventy-five thousand are prohibited from adopting or enforcing any regulations, restrictions, or ordinances regarding short-term rentals. This includes any requirements for conditional use permits or licensing for such properties, categorizing them as residential land use in the zoning codes. The intent of the bill is to create a more uniform regulatory environment for short-term rentals in larger municipalities.

Contention

The discussion surrounding SF341 suggests significant points of contention related to local governance and the ability for municipalities to self-regulate. Proponents of the bill highlight the need for a streamlined approach to short-term rentals that encourages economic activity and provides clarity for property owners. In contrast, opponents, including some local officials, express concerns that removing local control could exacerbate housing shortages and lead to a 'wild west' scenario in short-term rental markets, potentially impacting neighborhood character and community standards.