DEARBORN, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — Dearborn’s City Council drew a firm line on July 15: short-term rentals like Airbnbs and VRBOs are out in residential neighborhoods and single-family homes starting Jan. 1, confined instead to the city’s downtown districts.

The unanimous vote came after the council chamber heard from residents who say short-term rentals disrupt the community fabric with noise, parking headaches, and transient guests who don’t quite fit in, according to The Detroit News. 

MORE NEWS: Dana Nessel Sues Trump Administration Over FEMA Cuts

“The desirability of any neighborhood exists in unique relationships and sense of community that develop over time,” Nancy Harmon, president of the Morley Avenue Residents Association, said.

City officials say the move aims to preserve the character of Dearborn’s residential zones and address concerns about short-term rentals driving up housing costs by taking homes off the long-term market. Under the new rules, rental operators must register and maintain licenses with the city.

Council President Michael Sareini said the restrictions are not about punishing property owners but aligning short-term rentals with how other businesses are regulated. 

“We’re not picking winners and losers,” Sareini said. “The cleanest way to do this … is based on zoning.”

Still, Councilmember Mustapha Hammoud acknowledged the weight of the decision: “It’s hard to vote on when it affects people’s ability to feed their families,” he said, supporting efforts to curb nuisance issues but urging “empathy” in lawmaking.