The gist
The potential ordinance would allow the city to collect hotel occupancy tax from short-term rental properties, like those listed on Airbnb or Vrbo, Economic Development Director Rachel Steele said during the meeting.
Steele also said the ordinance would include policies to protect public safety which includes fire protection, carbon monoxide alarms and parking limitations.
The multi-phase ordinance, which would have a fee structure, will require homeowners to obtain permits to operate as a short-term rental property, Steele said. This includes an annual registration fee.
Also of note
Steele said the city of Magnolia sees an uptick in short-term rentals between November, which coincides with the Texas Renaissance Festival, and March during Mardi Gras.
Neighboring cities like Tomball already have a similar practice in place, according to prior reporting.
Quote of note
“It may not seem like a large issue, but we're a growing community and, for example, within any given year there are about 20 to 30 homes within the city of Magnolia that get posted to Airbnb and Vrbo,” Steele said. “We are seeing an uptick in usage right now. It's not regulated by the city. It's also not permitted.”
Stay tuned
The ordinance will be finalized and presented at an upcoming Magnolia City Council meeting.
