NYC’s Strict Airbnb Ban Faces a New Challenge

• A new bill could loosen some of the 2022 rules that led 77% of NYC’s Airbnbs to leave the platform.
• Proposed changes include raising the guest cap and allowing hosts to rent when they’re not home.
• Critics say the ban hasn’t made housing more affordable, while supporters maintain it will in time.

New legislation could loosen some of New York City’s rules regulating Airbnbs.

It’s the latest chapter in the nearly two-year-long battle since the adoption of Local Law 18, which requires Airbnb hosts to officially register with the city, limit the number of guests, and remain on-site during stays.

Like dozens of other cities around the world, New York City has grappled with how to regulate short-term rentals; advocates hoped the restrictions would increase housing inventory and improve affordability.

A new bill, introduced by City Council member Farah Louis in November, would relax the current restrictions. Proposed changes include raising the guest cap from…