North Columbus News

This week, Mark Remeis and Dawn Arheit, representing the Ohio REALTORS Short-Term Rental Workgroup, presented their support for Senate Bill 299 to the Senate Select Committee on Housing. The bill was introduced by Senator Andrew Brenner earlier this year with the aim of reducing local government regulations on short-term rentals.

Local governments across Ohio have implemented various restrictions on these rentals. In response, SB 299 seeks to limit the regulatory powers of townships, counties, and municipal corporations over short-term rental properties. The bill also proposes that electronic licenses be issued to licensed real estate brokers and salespersons by the Superintendent of the Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing.

Mr. Remeis argued in his testimony that market forces should dictate the need for short-term rentals rather than government intervention. He stated that property owners should have the freedom to use their properties as they see fit without undue restrictions.

Mrs. Arheit highlighted how short-term rentals can benefit communities by attracting visitors who boost local economies through patronage of businesses. She shared her personal experience with short-term rentals contributing positively to her community: "I have witnessed how short-term rentals benefit communities by attracting visitors who contribute to local economic activity by patronizing local businesses."

The bill is currently under review in the Senate Select Committee on Housing and is expected to be reconsidered in future legislative sessions.

For more details about SB 299, refer to Ohio Legislature | 135 General Assembly | SB 299.