Newport Cracks Down On Short-Term Rentals In Residential Areas

NEWPORT, RI — Changes are coming to Newport's rental market, just in time for the summer tourist season. On Wednesday, the City Council passed an ordinance banning short-term rentals in areas zoned as residential.

Under the new rules, properties in residential zones cannot be rented out for less than 30 days, unless the house is the owner's primary residence. The ordinance also applies to the Limited Business Zone, unless the city's Zoning Board of Review grants the property owner a special use permit.

Homeowners who live in their house as a primary residence can rent out two rooms in their home to up to four people.

Short-term rentals are still allowed in Newport's General Business and Waterfront Business areas.

Homeowners interested in short-term rentals must register their property as a transient guest facility with the City Clerk's Office, the city said. Registration forms are available online and cost $100.