Executive Summary
Authorities are increasingly moving beyond administrative fines toward more aggressive enforcement strategies, as seen in Santa Fe County, where officials have begun filing criminal charges against short-term rental owners to force compliance with local licensing laws. Meanwhile, emerging data in growing markets like Georgetown and Scott County, Kentucky - which saw a 138% surge in STR volume over three years, is being used to justify potential new zoning caps and stricter licensing requirements to protect housing affordability.
New Regulations
Santa Fe County, New Mexico, USA
Published: December 24, 2025
Regulation Category: Licensing / Enforcement
Summary: Santa Fe County has shifted from administrative fines to filing criminal charges against non-compliant short-term rental owners to ensure stricter adherence to local laws. For investors, this signals a high-risk environment where failure to secure proper permits can lead to prosecution rather than just monetary penalties.
Source: Some short-term rental owners hit with criminal charges as Santa Fe County ramps up enforcement
Developing Regulations
Georgetown and Scott County, Kentucky, USA
Published: December 26, 2025
Regulation Category: Zoning / Licensing / Tax
Summary: A new housing assessment highlighting a 138% growth in local STRs has led officials to recommend strengthened regulations and controlled expansion to protect housing affordability. Investors should prepare for potential new restrictive zoning or licensing caps as the county looks to tighten its current registration and 3% occupancy tax requirements.
Source: STRs affect housing affordability, availability