Short-term rentals represent a small proportion of the housing market that deserves perspective when evaluating broader impacts.  Most owners started operating in good faith based on guidance available at the time.  When 95+ hosts are getting approval from planning and zoning department, AUD, city operators, enforcement, encouraged by city council, etc to now be told we’ve all been illegal (Airbnb/VRBO) this whole time and telling our own neighbors to report us, turns neighbor against neighbor.  That doesn’t create a healthy family city USA. So we are here to set the facts straight.

This issue isn’t just about vacation rentals. It’s about families who need temporary housing during remodels, medical treatments, job transitions, visiting relatives, and other life situations where flexible housing matters.  The other patterns have been family coming to visit family for graduations, weddings, or reunions.  Family City attracts family.

Our family invested in the property next door because we care about who operates in our neighborhood and we didn’t want another investor to sweep in. That home had previously caused disruption — think drug whorehouse- the smells, conversations, and sights my children witnessed were concerning.  Since short-term renting it, the property has been a blessing: cleaner, safer, and well-maintained. We are invested financially and personally in the stability of our community and neighborhood as we are on site owners.

Like many homeowners, we are deeply concerned about the lack of clarity in our housing regulations.  In communities like Orem, families are receiving notices and fines related to “transient lodging” without clear guidance on what is allowed.

This confusion creates unnecessary stress for families trying to follow the law but left guessing about compliance. When responsible homeowners are penalized without clear rules or a fair path to comply, it undermines both stability and trust.

Recent concerns deserve careful review using verifiable local data and inclusive outreach to ALL stakeholders.  As we have yet to get a seat at the table on any city sponsored committee. Our association has a balance of owner occupied short-term owners, non-owner occupied, regular Orem residents who just live next door, as well as Orem neighbors who are against it completely.  We all support clear licensing, safety standards, occupancy limits, parking rules, and enforcement. Responsible regulation strengthens neighborhoods.  Coming together on issues and clear communication strengthens neighborhoods.

This does not need to be divisive. We are asking for thoughtful regulation rather than blanket prohibition and are committed to collaboration via balanced committees and education.

Orem has long been progressive and business-friendly, and moving forward with wisdom and fairness is the right step.

We are calling on local and state leaders to establish clear, fair, and transparent guidelines. This includes updating regulations to reflect modern housing realities, creating a straightforward path to compliance, and ensuring consistent enforcement.

Homeowners deserve the ability to responsibly use their property with clarity and confidence. Clear rules not only protect families—they strengthen communities and build trust between residents and local government.

Join us in calling for a system that is reasonable, understandable, and fair. Sign this petition to support Utah homeowners and create a better path forward for everyone.

Best to send an email to all of Orem city council right now as a neighbor on the positivity Airbnbs can bring or what your story is and why you support it!  Thanks!

Orem City Council:

jgale@orem.gov

ckillpack@orem.gov

jlambson@orem.gov

qmecham@orem.gov

lmillett@orem.gov

cmuhlestein@orem.gov